This past Saturday, Marley and I joined Three Sisters Market and Seeds 4 Change for their Rooted in Community farm-to-table dinner—and it was an experience we’ll remember long after the last bite. From a youth-led farm tour to live jazz and unforgettable dishes from some of Charlotte’s most talented chefs, every detail celebrated the power of food and community.

Farm Tour & Youth Leadership

The evening began with a guided tour of the Seeds 4 Change urban farm, led by the program’s youth. Marley loved seeing where the ingredients were grown and hearing how the farm connects fresh food to neighborhood families. She was so inspired that she’s already talking about getting more involved with Seeds 4 Change.

Live Jazz and Local Art

While guests explored the grounds, the Carolina Social Music Club—vocalist Dawn Anthony and saxophonist Greg Jarrell—filled the air with smooth jazz. Meanwhile, Charlotte artist Kevin Harris painted a live impressionistic piece inspired by the event. Watching Kevin layer color and texture in real time was a beautiful reminder of how art and food can tell a shared story.

Unforgettable Food

Four chef stations served dishes made with local ingredients, each better than the last:

• Chef Reyana’s chicken étouffée was rich and comforting.

• Chef Jamie Barnes and his wife, Alicia, served an unforgettable pork tenderloin with sweet potato grits—the best cut of pork I’ve ever tasted.

• Marley’s favorites were a puff pastry with sautéed squash and a black-eyed pea fritter that perfectly captured late-summer flavor.

The entire evening was a delicious celebration of Charlotte’s Black-owned culinary talent and local farms.

Community Connections

One of my favorite parts of the night was simply sitting with people we didn’t know—sharing food, conversation, and stories as fellow member-owners of Three Sisters Market. Marley even shared some of her artwork with our table. I ran into two of my trivia regulars, and before the evening ended I’d connected with a new client—shout-out to Ms. Sylvia, I’m excited to create that shirt for your pastor!

I also had the chance to offer a few marketing and event ideas to the Three Sisters Market board, and I look forward to becoming more active with both Three Sisters Market and the West Blvd Coalition as these organizations continue to grow.

Why This Night Mattered

Rooted in Community was a living example of what Three Sisters Market is building:

• A food co-op that brings fresh, healthy access to the West Boulevard Corridor.

• Partnerships that highlight Charlotte’s creative food scene.

• Opportunities for neighbors to connect and plant seeds—literally and figuratively—for a stronger, more sustainable future.

Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or someone who believes in supporting local farms and Black-owned businesses, events like these are worth every minute. I left full—of food, of ideas, and of gratitude for the community that continues to grow here.