Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Wescott.
Hi Elizabeth, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Our farming journey began with a humble start, rooted in a passion for gardening and a small flock of backyard chickens. When the opportunity arose to utilize family land for a farm, we eagerly embraced the chance. Over the years, we nurtured our livestock, raising cattle and pigs while also cultivating heirloom vegetables in those early years. However, in 2018, we decided to expand our horizons and venture into the world of cut flowers.
Transitioning into flower farming was pivotal for us, introducing a new dimension to our agricultural pursuits while allowing us to diversify our offerings further. This expansion into cut flowers complemented our existing operations with cattle and pigs, creating a harmonious blend of livestock rearing and floral cultivation that defines the multi-faceted nature of our farm.
In 2020, we took another leap forward by opening the first of two on-farm Airbnb rentals, offering guests a serene retreat amidst the natural beauty of our farm. Additionally, our venture into artisanal production saw us acquire a copper still, enabling us to distill our rose water from the abundant roses we grow on our land. This endeavor blossomed into creating a luxurious bath and body line, showcasing the essence of our farm’s botanical bounty. Central to our farming ethos is a steadfast commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious practices. As a “no spray” farm, we prioritize natural methods and refrain from using pesticides or fungicides, including organic alternatives, in our operations. We strive to uphold environmentally friendly practices in all aspects of our farm, from livestock management to flower cultivation and product creation.
Beyond our agricultural pursuits, we have transformed our farm into a hub of learning and creativity. By offering diverse on-farm classes, from basket weaving and natural dyeing to eco-printing and soap making, we provide hands-on experiences that connect participants with traditional crafts and sustainable techniques. Our popular flower-cutting events allow individuals to immerse themselves in the beauty of our fields, harvesting blooms and creating their stunning bouquets.
Through our ongoing evolution and commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement, we have cultivated a farm that reflects our values and vision. From our origins as a modest garden and a small flock of chickens to a thriving agricultural enterprise encompassing livestock, cut flowers, artisanal products, and educational experiences, our farm stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in shaping a sustainable and fulfilling way of life.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Our farming journey has been far from a smooth road, marked by numerous obstacles and challenges that have tested our resolve and perseverance. One of the most significant hurdles we faced was the initial need for farming experience. With knowledge of agriculture, we dove headfirst into farming, making countless mistakes, particularly in the nascent stages of our endeavor. The journey was a steep learning curve, and we often found ourselves grappling with the consequences of our inexperience. However, through these challenges and setbacks, we gained invaluable insight and knowledge, understanding that sometimes, learning the hard way can be the most influential teacher.
In addition to the steep learning curve, sacrifices have come hand in hand with the farming lifestyle. Financial constraints have been a constant reality, requiring us to navigate tight budgets and make tough decisions about where to allocate resources. This has meant forgoing personal luxuries and experiences that our peers may take for granted, such as extravagant vacations or lavish purchases. Despite these material sacrifices, we have discovered a different kind of richness that comes with farm life.
Farm life has afforded us the gift of time – time to spend together as a family without the constraints of a rigid schedule. The ability to homeschool our children, share a cup of coffee amidst the tranquil fields in the morning, and savor moments of peace and tranquility without the hustle and bustle of city life has been a priceless reward for our sacrifices. While our peers may measure success in material possessions, we have found fulfillment in farm life’s intangible joys of connection, simplicity, and authenticity.
Health challenges have also punctuated our farming journey, with the birth of twins amidst the demanding process of building and managing a farm. These hurdles tested our physical and emotional resilience, requiring us to summon strength and determination in adversity. Yet, through all the trials and tribulations, the rewards of our chosen way of life have always outweighed the struggles.
The toil, sweat, and tears shed on our farm have yielded bountiful harvests and sown the seeds of resilience, perseverance, and gratitude within our family. Each obstacle has been an opportunity for growth and learning, reinforcing our commitment to stewarding the land and living a life aligned with our values and passions.
Our journey is a testament to the transformative power of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in the beauty and possibility of a life lived close to the earth. Though the road has been rugged and challenging, the sense of fulfillment and purpose we have found along the way makes every hurdle and setback worth the struggle.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us more about your business.
What am I most proud of brand-wise? I am incredibly proud of the holistic vision and values that define our farm as a unique and thriving agricultural endeavor. From the exceptional quality of our beef to the beauty of our spray-free flowers, the charm of our thoughtfully designed on-farm Airbnbs, and the engaging experiences we offer through our classes and cutting events, there is a deep sense of pride, purpose, and dedication to excellence that runs through every aspect of our brand. Our commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and environmental stewardship sets us apart and resonates with customers seeking products and experiences that align with their values. Overall, it is the combination of high-quality products, engaging experiences, and a deep-rooted ethos of sustainability, community engagement, and a rich, rewarding lifestyle that I am most proud of brand-wise. Our farm represents not just a business but a way of life founded on passion, dedication, and a commitment to providing our customers with the best nature offers. This comprehensive vision of a farm as a place of joy, inspiration, and connection truly sets us apart.
We’d love to hear what you think about risk-taking.
My view on risk is intertwined with the very essence of farming itself. Agriculture is inherently risky, with weather, pests, diseases, and market fluctuations constantly posing challenges to success. When my husband and I decided to start a farm, we understood we were taking a massive risk. We put all our eggs in a basket that could be easily overturned by a hurricane, flood, hailstorm, or a sudden illness affecting our livestock or crops.
Every day, we wake up knowing that the hard work we put in today could be jeopardized tomorrow. Despite these risks, we continue to work with hope and dreams of seeing our efforts come to fruition. The mindset of a farmer embraces risk as a fundamental aspect of the profession. Even when crops fail, animals are lost, or infrastructure crumbles, the farmer faces each new day with resilience and determination.
Failure is not the end but merely a bump in the road to success. The agricultural industry is unpredictable, and setbacks are inevitable. Yet, this acceptance of risk and the willingness to confront challenges head-on define the spirit of a farmer. We understand that not every season will be bountiful and not every endeavor will succeed, but we continue to sow seeds, tend to our land and livestock, and persist in the face of uncertainty.
The ability to navigate risk, adapt to unforeseen circumstances, and learn from failures is ingrained in the fabric of farming. This resilience and unwavering dedication to the land and animals drives us to persevere even in the face of adversity. Risk is not a deterrent for us; it is a reality we acknowledge and embrace as part of farming. Despite the uncertainties and potential losses, we forge ahead with optimism, knowing that each new day brings the opportunity to begin anew and strive toward our goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: Lizzy-lous.myshopify.com
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/lizzylousfamilyfarm
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.wescotthewitt?mibextid=kFxxJD
- Other: Airbnb.com/h/lizzylousflowerhouse
