Vendor Rules & Guidelines

Sterling’s Market is a community-focused farmers market supporting local farmers, makers, and small businesses. By participating, all vendors agree to follow the rules and guidelines below to ensure a smooth, safe, and welcoming experience for everyone.

1. Market Basics

Westminster Location (Primary Market)

  • 5801 San Felipe St, Houston, TX 77057 | Every Saturday | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

River Oaks District Location

  • 4444 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77027 | 2nd & 4th Sundays of each month | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Holiday Closures (All Markets):
Closed for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Weekend.

Weather Policy:
The market is rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. In that case, vendor fees may be credited toward a future date.

2. Setup, Parking, and Teardown

Arrival & Setup

  • Vendors may arrive between 7:45 AM – 8:30 AM (Westminster)

  • Vendors may arrive between 9:45 AM – 10:30 AM (River Oaks District)

  • Unloading is permitted in the front parking area

  • All vendor vehicles must be moved before market opening

  • Booths must be fully set up 15 minutes prior to opening

Teardown & Loading

  • No early pack-up — vendors must remain set up until closing time

  • Vehicles may return for loading 15 minutes after market ends

  • Booth spaces must be left clean and trash-free

3. Booth Space & Equipment

  • Standard booth size: 10' x 10' (unless otherwise arranged)

  • Vendors must provide their own tent, tables, chairs, signage, and displays

  • All tents must be 10’ x 10’

  • All tents for River Oaks District must be white

  • Tents must be secured with at least 20 lbs per leg

  • Respect neighboring booths and walkways

4. Vendor Participation & Fees

  • $30 market fee for Saturdays at Westminster

  • $50 market fee for Sundays at the River Oaks District and $40 market fee for all ranchers/farmers.

Payment Rules:

  • $30 cash must be brought to the Saturday market

  • Payment due by Wednesday at 11:59 PM prior to the River Oaks District Market

5. Product Rules & Authenticity

  • All products must be grown, made, or produced by the vendor

  • No mass-reselling without prior approval

  • Vendors must comply with all local, state, and federal laws

  • Food vendors must display valid permits, licenses, and food handler certifications

6. Conduct & Community Standards

  • Be respectful, professional, and courteous at all times

  • No harassment, discrimination, profanity, or aggressive sales tactics

  • Sales must occur within your assigned booth only

  • Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming space

7. Liability & Insurance

  • Vendors are responsible for their own property and any damages or injuries

  • Sterling’s Market and Westminster UMC are not liable for loss, theft, or injury

  • General liability insurance is required

8. Photos & Market Promotion

By participating, vendors grant permission for photos of booths and products to be used in marketing, social media, and promotional materials.

9. River Oaks District Participation Policy

  • New vendors must apply and begin at the Westminster market

  • Vendors in good standing may be invited to River Oaks District when space becomes available

  • Participation at River Oaks is by invitation only based on consistency, professionalism, and product fit

10. Losing Market Privileges

Vendor participation may be suspended or revoked for:

  • Repeated absences or no-shows

  • Unprofessional behavior or harassment

  • Late or missed payments

  • Missing permits, insurance, or legal compliance

  • Misrepresentation of products

Thank You for Being Part of Sterling’s Market

Our market exists to support local businesses, build community, and honor the spirit of Sterling Reckling. We appreciate your partnership and commitment to making each market a meaningful experience.