Rooted in Resilience: What 2025 Taught Me About Agritourism, Grit, and Growth

Running an agritourism business isn’t just about flowers, events, or perfectly timed marketing. It’s about endurance. This past year at Sunny Mary Meadow tested nearly every part of my personal and professional life. On the Rooted Agritourism podcast, I reflected on what 2025 taught me—not just about running a farm, but about holding steady through uncertainty, setting goals that actually guide progress, and staying committed when it would be easier to step back.

The Year Everything Felt Personal

The challenges of 2025 didn’t stay at the farm gate. Infertility became an emotional undercurrent throughout the year. It shaped my energy, my mental focus, and how I approached work. On top of that, I faced community opposition that forced me to rethink how to advocate for my business without compromising who I am. These weren’t just business problems. They were life problems that impacted how I led, planned, and showed up.

Talking about these things publicly isn’t always easy, but I believe transparency helps others see that setbacks are part of the process. These experiences shaped how I lead, how I build my business, and what I prioritize.

Setting Goals that Actually Matter

When it feels like everything around you is in flux, measurable goals become anchors. In 2025, I leaned hard into setting targets that were both realistic and aligned with my larger vision. That looked like tracking profitability without burning out, mapping out off-season development projects, and carving out time for family and rest.

Too often, goal-setting in agriculture and tourism becomes reactive—trying to fix problems in the moment rather than designing for sustainability. I wanted my goals to reflect the bigger picture. Growth mattered, but not at the expense of my health or values.

When the Community Pushes Back

Agritourism can bring out strong opinions, especially in smaller communities. When I faced opposition, I had to remind myself that not every challenge requires a fight, but every challenge does require clarity. I made decisions rooted in facts, not fear. I didn’t try to please everyone. I tried to stay consistent, visible, and calm in the face of resistance.

This is something I talk about often on the podcast—how to maintain your mission and integrity when external pressures try to derail your work. Your community won’t always understand your vision, and that’s okay. Keep showing up.

What’s Coming in 2026

Despite the tough parts of 2025, it was also a year of momentum. I’m preparing to publish my first book, a project that’s been in the works for a long time. It’s rooted in the realities of farming, entrepreneurship, and building a business with staying power.

I’m also launching the Farmers to Florist app, a platform designed to help flower farmers and floral designers connect and collaborate more easily. Both of these projects were born from a year of questioning, refining, and recommitting to my role in this space.

Agritourism isn’t easy, and it’s not supposed to be. The seasons will stretch you. The public-facing nature of your work will challenge your boundaries. And sometimes the personal weight you’re carrying will feel heavier than what’s visible from the outside.

But there is strength in steady effort. The more you show up, even imperfectly, the more you grow. 2025 taught me that progress is rarely immediate, but it is always possible when you stay rooted in your purpose.

If you’re navigating a tough season, you’re not alone. Listen to the full episode for more reflections, lessons, and a look ahead at what’s next.