Sugar toads and Strawberries! –That’s what’s hot over at the Land & Sea Market off of Crosshills Road in Wicomico Church, but they don’t stay long, according to Monica Fahey, owner of the store. “We sold 35lbs of sugar toads in one hour the first day, and we’ve been increasing the order each time. They’re gone as soon as they arrive. The strawberries go just as fast.”
The store opened for their second season on April 9th, and Monica says they weren’t sure what to expect. However, they have been pleasantly surprised and grateful to be so busy, and seeing the repeat customers is Monica’s favorite part. She believes that it is because most people prefer to support the little guy and shop close to home. The products are also fresh and customers love the feel of the open-air environment – especially now, with COVID-19.
Come inside
The farm stand has been there for several years, but it only sold vegetables and plants until it changed ownership in 2019. There is now a much broader scope of products, all sourced locally, that include: Fresh seafood from Gloucester, VA; Freshly butchered beef and chicken out of the Northern Neck; milk and other dairy products from Home Stead Creamery in Wirtz, VA and a variety of cheeses that are brought back from Clover Hill Dairy in Maryland, once per week.
The store also features homemade soaps and candles, cork art, and a variety of unusual plants, like ornamental grasses, and hanging baskets that are currently in full bloom. The plants are a hot item because so many people are outside working in their gardens right now.
Monica says that if people are looking for something in particular, whether its plants or produce, they try to order it for them. While they have not begun delivery, they do have a call-in service. Customers can visit their Facebook page to see what’s available and then call in their order and pay by card.
Behind the counter
Monica and her husband Joe bought the market when a friend looked into renting the house behind it. The landlord, Garland Edwards, was also the owner of the market and looking for someone to run it. Their friend mentioned it to them.
The couple also owns Salty Bob’s and Monica is co-owner of The Great Wicomico Oyster with her brother Matt McShane. She said since the economy has slowed, the oysters aren’t really moving either, but they’re fine hanging out in the water until things pick back up. Salty Bob’s, their seafood catering company, will not only return to their usual schedule, they will also be making appearances at the market, once restrictions are lifted. The team will be serving hot items like Fried Oyster Tacos, Maryland Crab Cakes, Oysters, and Shrimp for lunch. You might be surprised to learn that they make a killer donut that will be available for breakfast on Saturdays only.
What are you waiting for?
Email: landandseafarmmarket@gmail.com | Phone: 804-445-5361
Address: 29 Crosshills Rd, Heathsville, VA 22473