Inside the Frame Podcast Episode #36: Building Community Through Markets and Connection with Melissa Smith
In Episode 36 of Inside the Frame Podcast, we welcome back Melissa Smith, our first recurring guest and the powerhouse behind Hail Bone Broth, Hanover Farmers Market, and the Girl Gang Collective. This inspiring conversation dives into Melissa’s deep commitment to community, entrepreneurship, and creating spaces for people to connect, shop, and thrive.
A Mission Rooted in Local Impact
Melissa’s drive to start the Hanover Farmers Market came from a simple question: why leave town to experience something our community could have right here? Now heading into its fourth season, the market has become a beloved monthly event that brings together farmers, artists, makers, students, and families. “It’s about showing up for your town and letting your town show up for you,” Melissa shares.
Frame Center was one of the market’s first sponsors, and Melissa praises the continued partnerships that help make each season successful. With over 30 vendors expected for the 2024 season kickoff on May 18, new additions like tallow balms, woven baskets, and handmade goods join returning favorites like Not Your Average Salsa and Mom on the Go grilled cheese.
Hail Bone Broth: Innovation and Connection
As co-founder of Hail Bone Broth, Melissa brings creativity to the culinary world, too. From their new Maguire’s Mushrooms flavor to hyper-local delivery, Hail remains a grassroots success story. “We love talking to customers face to face,” Melissa says, “and the farmers market is the most organic way to do that.”
She and her husband, Chris, continue to explore scalable e-commerce opportunities while staying grounded in their mission of nourishment and community.
The Winter Pop-Up and Expanding the Circle
After the regular market season wrapped in November, Melissa spearheaded a series of Holiday Pop-Up Shops at Hanover Crossing in collaboration with Rustic Marlin and others. These festive winter events took over the old Trader Joe’s space and created a cozy hub for artists, food vendors, and shoppers.
The result? New faces, wider visibility, and deeper connections across communities. Many vendors who joined the pop-ups have since joined the Hanover Farmers Market, growing the local creative network.
Girl Gang Collective: Women Supporting Women
Melissa’s third initiative, the Girl Gang Collective, hosts an annual Connection Conference celebrating women-owned businesses. With panels, storytelling, and collaborative energy, the event is a powerful reminder of what happens when women uplift one another. “Everyone has a story,” Melissa says. “Whether it’s a painting, a business, or a bowl of soup, it’s the story behind it that draws people in.”
Showing Up and Super-Connecting
Melissa sees herself and others like Frame Center’s team as “super-connectors,” helping build bridges between people and opportunities. Whether it’s sponsoring a student council table at the market or raising money for Hanover High scholarships, the work is always rooted in shared purpose.
Get Involved
The Hanover Farmers Market returns May 18 and runs every third Sunday through November from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hanover Crossing. Visit their website to apply as a vendor, sponsor, or to learn more.
Whether you’re shopping for handmade goods, sipping bone broth, or seeking inspiration among women entrepreneurs, Melissa Smith’s world is one where local always matters, and community always comes first.