Daily Inspiration: Meet Mark Mulch

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Mulch. 

Hi Mark, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I started working for 12 South Farmers Market 8 years ago as their “music guy”. Booking our live music, running sound and also helping to set-up and breakdown the market each week. Four years ago, I had the opportunity to buy the business side of the market and take over ownership. My first order of business was to make sure our fabulous Market Manager Dottie Beasley would stay on as manager and once she said yes, I decided to take on this new adventure. We make a very good team! 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The first season as owner was difficult because we only had about 6 weeks to prepare to open as we took over right before the season was about to begin in May of 2018. Since Dottie and I both had experience with the market and our vendors we were able to make it happen but we struggled a bit in the beginning without our normal Sponsorship help and also getting a late start booking vendors. That first season I invested a lot of my own money to keep the market going. 

As the season went on things started to settle in and we also started to realize what changes we wanted to make and what our vision for the market would be. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
First and foremost, I am a singer/songwriter and a producer here in Nashville. I moved here 16 years ago to go back to doing music full-time. I’ve had and continue to have success as an artist, songwriter, and producer. The market fits in perfectly with my music community since we offer a live music opportunity for artists every week. We’ve also partnered with local independent radio station Lightning 100 which has also solidified the market’s music presence. 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
As far as owning the 12 South Farmers Market I’ve learned not to micro-manage. Explain what you expect from each employee and then let them do THEIR job each week. I’ve learned how raise money for the market as well as our different programs like “Kids Cook” through Sponsorships. We’ve streamlined many different ways the market works and tried to make things simpler and easier for our vendors. We’ve also at least doubled the size of the market in the last 4 seasons. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Www.12southfarmermarket.com
• Instagram: @12southfarmersmarket
• Facebook: @12southfarmersmarket

Image Credits
Mark Mulch
Dottie Beasley