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A new business adventure can be one of the most exciting and rewarding endeavors a person or family can delve into. As a family affair, it can teach children some very valuable lessons such as: counting money and its value, working with the public and being part of a group that depends on each member to do their part. You've planted your first crop to fill your fruit and vegetable stand. So, what else must you do and know before welcoming customers to purchase your produce?

1. Location: If part of your property borders a busy street, you are in luck. Of course, you will have to make sure there is plenty of area for parking and entering and exiting the location. Another option is to scout your town out for empty lots or large parking lots where a produce stand would have high visibility. Find out who the owner of the location is and get permission to use the property.

Tip: If you have a choice of locations, don't pick one with loose dirt. Every time a customer drives up it will raise the dust and it will settle on your produce. People want to purchase clean, fresh looking fruits and vegetables.

2. The Stand: If you are a carpenter or know someone who is handy with a hammer, a nice structure can be built out of wood. Just remember to have it constructed in a way that can be expanded. Another option that is, perhaps, more viable and simpler for your first year is to buy a fabric canopy. These come in various sizes and they are pretty easy to put up and take down with the help of another person. Plus expansion is just a matter of purchasing another canopy for next year. And they are easy to store during the off season months.

Tip: Make sure you anchor your canopy down. An easy way to do this is with cement bricks that have holes cut out. Place them at the bottom of each leg and attach. Now your canopy won't take off like a kite with the first gust of wind.

3. Display: Start with folding tables. Add clean wood boxes (you may have to build these) to give your produce in the back a higher level. You want all of your produce to be seen. It is unappealing to have all of your fruits and vegetables on one flat level. Next, consider purchasing "bushel baskets" for larger items. Don't leave spoiled or damaged items out as no one will purchase these anyway. Have prices readily displayed. No one likes to ask how much something costs. If they have to ask, many times they will just pass it up.

Tip: Keep additional produce under the table, where it is out of the sun, and replenish

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