Blog #3

For my third blog post, I am shifting gears a bit now that my project direction has changed. I will still be creating hand-drawn designs and packaging, but now I will be working with a small local farm. I will be meeting with my client this Friday, March 13th, so I still do not know any specific details, goals, etc. I have decided that this blog post serves as a great way to learn more about what a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is and the type of marketing that is usually associated with CSAs.

 
Based on the description listed on Kentucky Proud’s website, a CSA allows access to the highest quality produce, dairy, and meats available by purchasing a share from a local Kentucky Proud farmer. This subscription offers great value, fresh flavor, and an even larger impact on the local community. It allows local farms to hand-pick and provide the best in-season produce and foods based on clients' preferences. There are tons of farms involved, making it easy to find a farm that is just right for the client. Share size, products, pricing, and pickup are all things that can be discussed and decided on when signing up. To see the full list of partnered farms, visit here https://www.oak-ky.org/assets/kyfsc/FINAL%202026%20KY%20Proud%20Spring%20CSA%20Week%20Partner%20Farm%20Guide.pdf. 


When looking at the link above and learning more about the different farms involved, I observed the common themes of packaging design. I have noticed that most packaging is kept very simple, often only including the farm name, sometimes a logo, product description, and little to no design elements (see examples below). While it is understandable that most CSA products are sold with simple packaging due to many being small, family-owned and run businesses that lack marketing and design knowledge, I believe that better packaging design would help make their impact even larger than it already is. Sales-wise, I believe it would help them become more recognizable online and at farmers' markets. Community connection wise, I think it would allow them to connect with their clients. Brand image-wise, I believe it would allow them to further identify themselves as a business rather than just a farm that they hope people will purchase from. There are so many CSAs to choose from, and I believe stronger packaging designs would help it stand out more and connect with more clients.


Examples:



Images from: 

https://www.sandvfarms.com/gallery
https://elmwoodstockfarm.com/product/apples-dried/
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=133732741464359&set=pb.100057614162514.-2207520000
https://www.sustainableharvestfarm.com/our-farm-share-csa.html#pricing
 

Information from:

https://www.kyproud.com/programs/community-supported-agriculture

https://www.oak-ky.org/assets/kyfsc/FINAL%202026%20KY%20Proud%20Spring%20CSA%20Week%20Partner%20Farm%20Guide.pdf 


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