In just over a decade Lauren was able to grow a farmshare program, wholesale vegetable business, wedding venue and outdoor adventure camp for kids. Today, Bloomsbury Farm stands as a testament to her perseverance and creativity.

Like many farmers last year, Lauren worried about keeping her business afloat and providing for both her family and employees. She watched as restaurants and other wholesale vendors dried up seemingly overnight.

What started out as a stressful situation ended up opening new avenues in many unforeseen and beautiful ways. Customers rallied around the local food movement, and she watched her community bloom in the midst of one of the most harrowing years in recent memory.

“Knowing where your food comes from is so important – people are seeking us out more than ever.”

Her CSA boxes became the lifeblood for many families trying to do their part and stay home as much as possible. Lauren threw herself into creating a rainbow of nutrients in every peck she packed. And when she had too much of a good thing? She doubled down on creativity.

A surplus of tomatoes turned into a limited-edition Bloody Mary mix, developed with a local chef. “People were still asking for it in December, even though the tomatoes were long gone by then,” she laughs.

It’s quick thinking like this that’s helped Bloomsbury Farm thrive. Keeping an open mind and giving herself room to create made Lauren’s business stronger than ever. In the end it came down to being brave enough to explore new directions and allowing her creative spirit to grow.