How Chelsea Kopelman Became Carmel’s Go-To Voice for Local Life
When Chelsea Kopelman launched Keeping Up in Carmel, it wasn’t to go viral—it was to go local. What began as a side project to share her favorite spots around Carmel has grown into one of Indiana’s most trusted lifestyle brands, with a loyal audience, growing affiliate network, and a mission rooted in faith, family, and Hoosier hospitality.
In this episode of Get IN, Chelsea gets real about content creation, quitting corporate, and how the Carmel Farmers Market became one of her go-to places for food, connection, and inspiration.
Let’s dive into her journey—and why this story matters for Indiana.
From Eli Lilly to Local Influence
Chelsea’s early career was in pharmaceuticals at Eli Lilly, but she always felt a tug toward creativity and storytelling. After becoming a mom and moving to Carmel, she started Keeping Up in Carmel to share honest glimpses into her life—from workouts and wellness to local businesses and hidden gems.
The audience came quickly. But the real success? The impact on the local community.
Now, Chelsea’s platform isn’t just about what to do in Carmel—it’s helping people feel at home here.
Her Favorite Saturday Spot: The Carmel Farmers Market
If you follow Chelsea, you know her Saturdays often start at the Carmel Farmers Market—and it’s easy to see why.
Here are a few facts she shared on the pod:
The Carmel Farmers Market hosts up to 8,000 visitors on busy Saturdays.
It runs every Saturday from May to September at Carter Green, near the Palladium.
It features over 80 vendors, all required to produce or grow their goods in Indiana.
Favorites include Walking Waffle Company, Bee Coffee Roasters, and My Dad’s Sweet Corn, which regularly sells out before 9:00 a.m.
The atmosphere is festive—live music, wide open lawns, and a true sense of community.
“It’s where I get my groceries, where I take my kids, and where I run into half the people I know,” Chelsea laughs. “It’s one of my favorite parts of living in Carmel.”
The market is more than food—it’s a place where business owners, parents, and newcomers connect. For Chelsea, it represents exactly what Keeping Up in Carmel is all about: local roots, friendly faces, and celebrating what makes Indiana special.
Growing the Brand: Keeping Up Local
As her Carmel page took off, Chelsea expanded into other cities under the Keeping Up Local umbrella—building a network of creators who share her passion for hyperlocal, high-trust content.
Each affiliate city has a voice of its own, but the mission is shared:
Help people discover what makes their hometown shine.
Chelsea’s team now manages content calendars, affiliate marketing, brand partnerships, and more. She’s gone from solo creator to small business owner—without losing the personal, down-to-earth feel that made people trust her in the first place.
Tips for Aspiring Creators in Indiana
Whether you want to promote your small business or grow as a local influencer, Chelsea dropped real, relatable advice:
Consistency wins. Post daily, engage with your audience, and make showing up a habit.
Start with heart. Talk about what you actually love—not what’s trending.
Use your platform for good. Chelsea regularly highlights nonprofits, under-the-radar businesses, and moms doing amazing things.
Build offline, too. Events like the Farmers Market let her connect in real life—and that's where lasting impact happens.
Quick Q&A with Chelsea Kopelman
Q: Why does the Carmel Farmers Market mean so much to you?
A: It’s the heart of the town. You can feel the community there. It’s not just about food—it’s about connection.
Q: What’s your biggest advice for someone starting a local brand?
A: Just start. Be real. Show up. Don’t try to be everywhere—just serve your people well.
Why This Story Matters to Indiana
Chelsea’s story isn’t just about content—it’s about community empowerment. Through platforms like Keeping Up in Carmel and regular events like the Carmel Farmers Market, she’s helping Hoosiers feel seen, supported, and proud of where they live.
Her success proves that you don’t need a million followers to make a difference. You just need to care—and commit.
👀 Want more Indiana local stories?
Check out our spotlight on the Carmel Farmers Market, or explore more Small Business Spotlights across the state.
