By Lily Mihelich | Photography by Sharon Vanorny, courtesy Destination Madison
The outdoor season of the Dane County Farmers’ Market (DCFM) returns to the Capitol Square on April 13! Fun fact: the market’s leadership is mostly women, which includes market manager Jamie Bugel, assistant manager Rachel Figueroa and market assistant Hannah Menzel.
If you’re looking to head downtown, check out these five female-run businesses among the many vendors at the market.
Bee Charmer
Mary Celley is owner of southern Wisconsin’s beloved Bee Charmer business, which offers delicious and raw organic honey, beeswax, candles, beekeeping supplies and information about the pollinating insect. Celley has a degree in horticulture with an emphasis on entomology and completed four years of research for the U.S.D.A. Honey Bee Research Lab. beecharmerbeekeeper.com/index.html
Wonka’s Harvest
Wonka’s Harvest out of Hollandale, Wisconsin, is a female-run farm with a mission to increase people’s access to healthy food. The farm sells eggs, pork, honey, herbs, mushrooms and vegetables. Owner and co-founder Patty Grimmer has related degrees in environmental sciences, policy and management and environmental education and communication. wonkasharvest.com
Paleo Mama Bakery
This Madison bakery is known for its gluten-free, grain-free, paleo and keto treats, cookies, bars, cupcakes, muffins, granolas and more. Owner and founder Belle Voell started the business after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease with the goal of helping people feel good through food. paleomamabakery.com/about
Luna Circle Farm
Luna Circle Farm sells arugula, asparagus, squash, raspberries and watermelon and much more. Run by Tricia Boss out of Rio, Wisconsin, this farm has specialized in organic, high-quality produce for over 25 years. csacoalition.org/Items/luna-circle
Stella’s of Madison
Stella’s is one of the most well-known market vendors, peddling loaves of their popular Hot & Spicy Cheese Bread. The Madison-based bakery also has delicious artisan breads, empanadas, pies, pastries and cookies. Husband-and-wife team Jennifer and Patrick (PJ) Patrello own the business. stellasofmadison.com
