Vendor Rules & Guidelines

Location: Westminster United Methodist Church
Address: 5801 San Felipe St, Houston, TX 77057
Market Hours: Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

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

  • Market operates every Saturday from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

  • Closed for major holidays: Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Weekend.

  • The market is rain or shine, unless weather is unsafe. In that case, fees may be credited to a future date.

2. Setup, Parking, and Teardown

Arrival & Setup

  • Vendors may arrive between 7:45 AM – 8:45 AM.

  • You may unload in the front parking lot, but all vendor vehicles must be moved to the back parking lot by 8:45 AM before the market opens.

  • Booths must be fully set up 15 minutes before opening (8:45 AM).

Teardown & Loading

  • No early pack-up—vendors must stay set up until 1:00 PM.

  • Vehicles may return to the front parking lot for loading 15 minutes after the market ends (1:15 PM) to allow customers to leave safely.

  • Booth areas must be left clean and free of trash.

3. Booth Space & Equipment

  • Standard vendor spaces are 10' x 10' unless otherwise arranged.

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

  • Tents must be weighted with at least 20 lbs on each leg.

  • Respect your neighboring spaces and walkways.

4. Vendor Participation & Fees

  • $30 per market

Payment Rules:

  • Payment is due by Wednesday at 5:00 PM before each market.

  • Accepted payment methods: Zelle, Venmo, or check to Sterling’s Market.

5. Product Rules & Authenticity

  • All items must be grown, made, or produced by the vendor. No mass-reselling without approval.

  • Vendors must follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding sales, labeling, and licensing.

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

6. Conduct & Community Standards

  • Be respectful, professional, and kind to customers, volunteers, staff, and fellow vendors.

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

  • Sales must take place only within your assigned booth.

  • Keep your space clean, safe, and welcoming.

7. Liability & Insurance

  • Vendors are responsible for their own property, equipment, products, and any damages or injuries caused.

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

  • Vendors are strongly encouraged to carry general liability insurance.

8. Photos & Market Promotion

  • By participating, vendors grant Sterling’s Market permission to use photos of booths and products in promotional materials, social media, and advertising.

9. Losing Market Privileges

Vendor participation may be suspended or ended for:

  • Repeated absences or “no-shows”

  • Unprofessional behavior or harassment

  • Failure to pay fees on time

  • Lack of 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 every Saturday a meaningful experience.