Event Host, Growing Roots

Growing Roots Partners (GRP) is a Pennsylvania-based farmers market coordinator and event management company dedicated to fostering vibrant communities by supporting small-scale, local food systems and artisans. With a focus on sustainability and economic impact, Growing Roots provides platforms for local farmers, food producers, and artisans to connect directly with consumers, creating a dynamic marketplace for locally sourced and crafted goods.

Since 2013, Growing Roots has operated three weekly, year-round farmers markets in Chester County (Eagleview, Downingtown, and Malvern). Growing Roots farmers markets feature a curated, diverse range of local producers—including seasonal produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, pantry staples, and more—ensuring a balanced, high-quality experience for shoppers while fostering a supportive environment for small businesses. They also provide the community with access to nutritious, locally sourced food and highlight the value and exceptional quality of locally produced goods.

Founded on a deep commitment to local food systems and rooted in the belief that investing in local economies strengthens communities, Growing Roots collaborates with farmers, artisans, and local organizations to drive meaningful change. GRP’s vision is driven by a commitment to supporting its producers and showcasing the economic power of local marketplaces.

From its leadership’s passion for local food and community-building to its meticulous curation of farmers markets and events, Growing Roots brings heart, vision, sustainability, and meaningful connections to every endeavor.

Learn more about Growing Roots in their film series “Good Farms, Good Food, Good People” here.

Premier Sponsor, Kimberton Whole Foods

Good Food Fest is made possible by premier sponsor, Kimberton Whole Foods. In 1986 Terry and Pat Brett were running a farm store in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Along with pantry staples, they sold organic yogurt which was made on-site at the biodynamic dairy farm is now known as Seven Stars Farm. In the following years, they have grown that store into a group of natural grocery stores that actively reflect their commitment to local farming and the prioritization of organic and fair food. As a regional leader in the local food movement, they work with over 200 producers from the Greater Philadelphia Area. Their dedication to organic and sustainably farmed food, contributions to the local community, and commitment to service over the past thirty years have led to a loyal following of customers that continue to grow.

Growing Roots Owner, Christy Campli

Christy is the passion and driving force behind Growing Roots Partners, and took over the helm in January 2021. Christy was born & raised in Chester County and holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management and Business Administration from the College of Charleston (SC). Her background in hospitality and food & beverage along with her personal passion for sustainable agriculture and local food led her to become a farmers market manager. After spending more than 6 years working with, for, and alongside farmers in the restaurant industry, and as an avid farmers market goer herself, she finally found the perfect opportunity to participate closely in the local food movement through Growing Roots.

Christy’s love for local agriculture started in 2015 at Wyebrook Farm in Honey Brook, PA as manager of the restaurant, butcher shop, and market on a 360-acre sustainable farm that quite literally defined farm to table. During her time there, she learned the importance of educating consumers about where their food comes from in order to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the process that brought it from farm to fork. This was a life-changing experience for Christy and laid the framework to lead her to where she is today. From there, she vowed to make it her life’s work to be a champion of local food. After Wyebrook, she went on to manage other farmer-focused restaurants and ultimately ended up back in Charleston to open a similar restaurant concept, Herd Provisions, as the General Manager. This farmer-owned & hyper local restaurant, whole-animal butcher shop, and market sources all meats directly from the farm and all other products exclusively from local farmers & producers to create a truly seasonal and local menu.

In 2020, Christy found herself back home in Chester County when the opportunity arose for her to take over Growing Roots, and the rest is history. A history that began long ago, as her passion for small business began at birth. Christy’s family operates a small business in Malvern, PA and she hopes to continue in her father’s entrepreneurial footsteps while also helping other small businesses succeed.