A Fresh Take on Local Shopping: 4 Seasons Farmers Market
4 Seasons Farmers Market has become a Lebanon, Oregon community staple, offering fresh produce, unique grocery items, and a welcoming atmosphere. Owned by Josh and Natalie Manner, this year-round market provides locals with an alternative to big-box grocery stores, emphasizing quality, personal service, and locally sourced goods whenever possible. We sat down with Josh recently to learn more about their journey and what makes 4 Seasons stand out.
A Passion for Quality & Community
Josh and Natalie didn’t always plan on owning a farmers market, but life had other plans. “We were actually customers before we took over,” Josh explains. “I worked at Trader Joe’s for 17 years, so I had grocery experience. The previous owners were looking for a change, and we saw an opportunity to step in and continue something we already loved.”
Rather than rebranding, the Manners decided to keep the name that had been in place for years. “4 Seasons represents that we’re open all year,” Josh says. “We bring in local produce whenever possible and offer a variety of goods from local bakers, artisans, and specialty food makers. It just made sense to keep it.”
What Makes 4 Seasons Different?
Unlike large grocery chains, 4 Seasons Farmers Market has the flexibility to cater to customer needs. “We’ve introduced a lot of gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options,” Josh shares. “If someone is looking for a specific product, we do our best to bring it in. Bigger stores can’t always do that.”
But beyond the products, it’s the atmosphere that keeps people coming back. “It’s a small, friendly store where personal attention is still a priority,” Josh says. “We even offer to carry groceries out—something you don’t see much anymore.” And when it comes to produce, 4 Seasons often offers fresher options at better prices than larger competitors. “Even if it’s the same kind of produce you’d find at a big store, ours is fresher because we get it in quicker, and it gets to customers faster.”
A Commitment to Quality & Customer Loyalty
Josh is particularly proud of the loyalty of their customers. “Four years in, we still have repeat customers, and we’re always seeing new faces. Word-of-mouth is huge for us,” he says. “People tell others to check us out, and we love hearing that.”
He acknowledges that there’s sometimes a misconception that everything in the store is local. “We get as much local as possible when it’s available,” he clarifies. “But in December, for example, we can’t source local produce—it’s just not possible here in Oregon. Still, we prioritize quality and only bring in the best options.”
Another key aspect that sets 4 Seasons apart is their relationship with vendors. “We work directly with farmers, bakers, and artisans who take pride in what they do,” Josh says. “This isn’t just about selling products—it’s about supporting local businesses and ensuring our customers get the best options available.”
What’s Next for 4 Seasons?
The store is always evolving to meet customer needs. “We recently added new protein powders and electrolytes, and they’ve been really popular,” Josh says. “We’re always on the lookout for new, hard-to-find products that fit our customers’ needs. Microgreens have been a great addition recently, and we’ve also connected with new vendors for local plums, chestnuts, and other seasonal items.”
Looking ahead, Josh and Natalie are considering expanding their offerings even further. “We’d love to bring in more organic options, maybe even expand our space if the opportunity arises,” Josh shares. “Right now, it’s all about keeping our ears open and making sure we’re meeting the needs of our customers.”
A Store with Heart
Beyond the products and service, what truly makes 4 Seasons Farmers Market special is the sense of community it fosters. Josh and Natalie are passionate about getting to know their customers and creating a space where people feel welcome. “We love what we do, and we love meeting new people. This market has been a great way to connect with the community and help people live healthier, happier lives.”
For Josh, success isn’t just about running a business—it’s about making a positive impact. “If we can provide better food choices, support local businesses, and create a space where people enjoy shopping, then we’re doing something right.”
Stay Connected with 4 Seasons
For the latest updates on new products and seasonal offerings, Facebook is the best way to connect. “Our page, 4 Seasons Lebanon, is really active,” Josh notes. “People can message us anytime with questions.” Their website, 4SeasonsLebanon.com, also provides a direct feed to their Facebook updates.
At the end of the day, Josh and Natalie are enthusiastic about what they do. “We love meeting new people and being part of this community,” Josh says. “It’s all about offering a great shopping experience and helping people find healthier, better options for their families.”
For those looking for fresh, high-quality groceries with a personal touch, 4 Seasons Farmers Market is a must-visit. Stop by, explore their selection, and experience what makes this local market so special! They are located at 33754 Santiam Hwy, Lebanon, OR, (just north of Lebanon, on the west side). You can reach them at (541) 258-2303.