Erik Morrison steps down from Big Sky Town Center after 14 years
By Leslie Kilgore EBS STAFF
Erik Morrison, a longtime fixture in Big Sky’s community life, is leaving his role as events and marketing manager at Big Sky Town Center to pursue new opportunities.
Morrison has been instrumental in growing the Big Sky Farmers Market, transforming it into a beloved summer tradition. He started Love Street Media, a freelance marketing and event consulting agency in 2014 and the Town Center Owners Association was one of his first clients, contracting Love Street to manage the farmers market and Town Center’s digital marketing efforts.
“For over 14 years Erik has curated and expanded the farmers market to include hundreds of local and regional vendors of all sizes and descriptions, and built it into a permanent and widely enjoyed centerpiece of Big Sky summers,” said Jonathan Gans, local Big Sky resident and owner of Rancho Picante Bison, a staple food truck at Big Sky events. “He is a dynamic and generous figure in our community.”
On Tuesday, Gans hosted a farewell gathering for Morrison on behalf of Lone Mountain Land Company at The Rocks Tasting Room where other community members came to pledge their appreciation for what Morrison has brought to the community.
This year marked the 17th annual Big Sky Farmers Market, held every Wednesday from June through September. The event stretches through Fire Pit Park, along Town Center Avenue, and into the Town Center Plaza by The Wilson Hotel, featuring local produce, crafts, cuisine, live music, local Big Sky vendors and family-friendly activities.
Morrison championed sustainability efforts, partnering with Big Sky SNO and Karl Johnson at YES Compost to foster a zero-waste event. He noted his gratitude toward early supporters such as Ryan Hamilton and the Simkins Family, the teams at TCOA and LMLC, as well as sponsors and partners of the market that have helped it thrive.
Looking back, Morrison recalls fondly the early farmers market days.
“I really enjoyed the small intimate venue, strolling around catching up with friends I haven’t seen since ski season,” Morrison said. “Our farmers market family of vendors was quite tight then and everyone knew each other. … I’ve worked hard to curate that experience and keep that Big Sky vibe alive as the Town Center and the market continue to evolve.”
His initiative Second Season will continue to sponsor the live music at Fire Pit Park, host the Big Sky Shootout and be a part of the vendor family he holds close. While Morrison’s next chapter is still unfolding, his impact on Big Sky’s culture and community will be felt for years to come.
“I would like to thank the Big Sky community for all of your love and support over the last 11 years,” Morrison said. “It has been an honor to serve you and to have been the keeper of this amazing Big Sky tradition.”
