Cherry Valley Market Supports Small Businesses, Community

BUSINESS PROFILE
CHERRY VALLEY

The Cherry Valley Market opened its doors on October 15, 2021 on Cherry Valley’s Main Street. Owned by Georgina and Dominick Fontana, the market is a small village grocery with a community focus. The Fontanas’ goal has always been to provide quality food made in New York State wherever possible.

“While our small space limits our choices, we offer a variety of daily essentials, including milk, bread, and eggs, as well as a wide selection of unique beverages and snacks, fresh produce, beer and wine, and a fantastic assortment of cheese and food available in bulk quantities,” said Georgina Fontana.

“You won’t recognize most brands because they represent other tiny businesses. We believe that when local, small businesses support one another, it fosters a stronger regional economy,” Georgina continued. “We opened our market during the pandemic, and although we have had some struggles here and there sourcing products, our shelves remained mostly full while big grocery stores had empty shelves.”

Georgina said her passion for small markets stems from growing up in small towns, where village markets were a vital part of the community.

“The owners lived in the community, and interactions with customers were not merely transactional,” she recalled. “Conversations were plentiful, and friendships were made. I have enjoyed meeting our customers, getting to know them, and determining the best way to serve their grocery needs.”

When Georgina is not at the store, she is tending to the couple’s herd of dairy goats and the flocks of chickens they raise for eggs and meat.

“We have a large vegetable garden and an assortment of other livestock on our farm. We strive to grow as much of our food as possible, and when we can’t, we prioritize buying local,” Georgina explained. “It isn’t always possible, and that’s okay. With all the choices of where to shop, I am so humbled and grateful for every customer that walks through our door.”

Georgina and Dominick are always looking for new customers to stop by, enjoy a cup of coffee, or discover a new product they can’t live without.

“Food is fun,” Georgina said, “and there are so many wonderful farmers and makers right here in Central New York.”

The Cherry Valley Market, located at 8 Main Street, Cherry Valley, is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.