I was a local resident of Englewood, Ohio for nearly 25 years and never happened upon this little farm until today. I am no longer local, now living in a small rural community north of town who prides themselves in their own country living charm. This is the way of life I have become accustomed to over the last 3 years - very friendly people who are good natured and freely offer smiles to anyone and everyone. Small business is so important to the local economy and especially for the local food market. I used to never be willing to spend a premium on local produce and other goods; however, once you slow down a little and take inventory of priorites you start to recognize just how important good food really is. Not just good food - but good FOR you food. Let me tell you the about my experience with this lovely market farm just outside of a busy little city that perhaps one wouldn't expect to find such genuinity and such lovely charm. Was it the good prices? Not necessarily. Was it the quality of goods? No, though they were very quality. It was the graciousness of the family who owns and operates this establishment. Upon arrival you will be greeted with friendly smiles - real ones. They will make you feel very comfortable and welcome even if you feel a little unsure of this whole 'pick your own' process. They will warmly welcome you into their story - into this well loved, family owned farm. The farm that momma and daddy started 57 years ago and that the 7 children went on to care for in time. You can tell they love what they do. Have you ever been to a business and felt so unwanted there that you wonder why they are open at all? Not Monnin Farm. They are well rooted, well established, and they care for their customers. I think they have such good business because they attract their own brand of honesty and integrity - customers recognize it and the good ones stay. I think forever. My particular experience is perhaps uncommon but I believe the grace we experienced is quite common for these business owners. My sister and I and my 4 month old showed up just minutes before the window for picking strawberries closed. Still we were greeted with smiles and pointed in the right direction. As it would happen, my vehicle would not start once we were ready to leave the strawberry patch. We walked back, expained what happened and were, again, acknowledged and cared for. They never once made me feel that I was a burden, even though I was a complete stranger to them. Immediately one of the growers even asked if he should go look at my car and see of it could be fixed. I refused only because I had help coming; however, I believe sincerely he would have helped me. Then they made sure my daughter was cool enough and offered anything they could to make us comfortable while we waited for help. My sister went for the car seat and diaper bag and when I turned and round I realised another gentleman had carried the car seat for her - all with COMPLETE kindness. The real thing. No pretense. Then, as you would have it, I needed to leave my car overnight. I was so embarrassed, but yet again they acted like we were old friends and they knew we would take care of it as soon as possible. What lovely people. One of my favorite bible verses says "a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor is better than fine gold". Anyone willing to put their name on their product is willing to risk everything. So thank you to the lovely family owned business that is still living up to momma and daddy's good name. We...
Read moreLet me begin by saying I don't usually feel a need to do reviews on line.When I saw the post left by Cheryl Brunswick I could not remain silent.As it happens I was in the market the same day as Ms. Brunswick and her companion.I have stood by and watched as people pick over the produce, disregarding signs requesting they not.I watched Ms. Brunswick picking strawberries out of various quarts basically creating her own.I'm sorry but isn't that what "U Pick" is for?I don't want strangers handling my produce.I heard the Monnin's associate "politely" ask Ms. Brunswick if she could help her.At first Ms. Brunswick ignored her, then "she" proceeded to get rude.No threats or aggression were witnessed by me by a Monnin associate.Probably not a place for people with "entitlement" issues.I wanted to applaud but settled for laughing and believe it when I say "I was not alone".Ms. Brunswick was honest about one thing.After handling all those berries she did walk out of there with nothing.I guess she had handle enough by then.Monnin Fruit Farm is a great place to shop for fresh produce with a good family atmosphere.Keep up...
Read moreWe found this farm through a Google search while looking for a place to U-pick strawberries. It was our first visit, so we asked the front desk for help. A man gave us two small white baskets but didn’t mention that each basket costs $1.
After picking, my husband went to weigh and pay. That’s when an older woman (around 5’5”, grayish-white hair) told him the baskets weren’t free. He paid without issue.
Later in the car, I realized we had our own basket, so I transferred the strawberries and asked my husband to return the farm’s baskets. When he did, the same woman acted very rudely—rolling her eyes and sighing loudly.
There was no clear communication about the basket charge up front. I assumed they were just for temporary use and could be returned afterward. The baskets weren’t even new—they looked used and were poor quality. I don’t see why we should pay for something that’s obviously disposable.
Also, the strawberries were just okay—not particularly sweet or fresh. Overall, not a great experience. We won’t be...
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