By Eric Pickens, Sequim Farmers & Artisans Market Board President – Originally published in the Sequim Gazette on January 23, 2025
The Sequim Farmers and Artisan Market (SFAM) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Layla Forêt as their new Market Director. With a profound passion for locally-grown food and regenerative agriculture, Forêt has been an integral part of the SFAM team since 2023.
“Layla is an exceptional fit for this leadership role,” says SFAM President Eric Pickens. “She has demonstrated a commitment to supporting local farmers and artisans, coupled with an extensive marketing and communications background.”
Forêt became SFAM’s Marketing Manager in 2024, leading strategy and content creation for social media, local editorials, and paid advertising, as well as conducting weekly radio interviews and managing annual fundraising efforts.
“The market has such a positive impact on our community,” says Forêt. “It’s a place in the heart of our town where everyone is welcome to gather and celebrate all the delicious produce, beautiful art, and culture that Sequim has to offer. It creates food access, supports local entrepreneurs, and provides people with a space to cultivate friendships. It’s truly a wonderful organization, and I feel honored to be in this new role working alongside our amazing Board and vendors.”
“We have so much good work ahead of us this season, and I’m looking forward to what we can achieve together,” she adds.
For nearly a decade, Forêt has used her talents for marketing and communications to support non-profit and higher education organizations. Prior to joining SFAM, she held two full-time roles within the University of Oregon while completing her Bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology. As the Social Media Director for the Erb Memorial Union, she led campaigns that supported food sovereignty and environmental sustainability initiatives. As Web Content Specialist for the university’s College of Education, she managed the website and social media channels for a U.S. Department of Education program.
Since 2022, Forêt has led digital marketing and communications for The Nature Conservancy’s work across Canada — helping to advance Indigenous-led conservation, Natural Climate Solutions, and sustainable agriculture in a way that supports nature and people. Outside of work with SFAM and The Nature Conservancy, she is completing her Master’s degree in Communications and Leadership from Gonzaga University.
“Under Layla’s direction, our Board is confident that SFAM is poised for a successful season,” says Pickens. “Layla is eager to build on the market’s existing achievements and collaborate with the Board and vendors to enhance the market’s offerings and impact on the community.”
The Sequim Farmers and Artisan Market is a beloved community institution, dedicated to supporting local agriculture and artisans while fostering a vibrant, inclusive space for residents and visitors to connect over shared values of sustainability, community, and the celebration of Sequim’s unique culture. With Layla at the helm, the market is set to reach new heights in its mission to enrich the lives of all who participate.
