I recently had the chance to sit down with my business coach and friend, Brittni Schroeder on the Redefine Business Podcast, and we talked all things Taeda Farms, how it started, what’s taken so long, and the dream we’re building on our little piece of North Carolina land. I wanted to share a recap here for all of you who’ve been following along and cheering us on. Your support means the world to us.
Even though this farm is still in the early stages, it’s already become such a meaningful part of our lives.
Where “Taeda Farms” Comes From (and How to Say It!)
This is probably the most asked question we get:
What does Taeda mean? And how do you pronounce it?
Taeda is pronounced TAY-da (not “ta-da,” even though we joke about it all the time!).
The name comes from the pine trees that naturally grow all over our property. Their Latin classification is pinus taeda. These trees have long needles and grow tall, with their branches starting higher up the trunk.
We also loved that the word taeda means “torch” in Latin, specifically a wedding torch. There’s something symbolic and almost poetic about that: light, warmth, and something carried forward. It felt fitting for the start of a family project like this.
Why This Has Taken So Long (A.K.A. Permits, Permits, and More Permits)
When we first bought the land, I honestly thought we’d just clear some trees, plant some flowers, and call it a day. I had no idea how many layers were involved in developing land, especially in a coastal county.
We learned quickly that:
- You can’t clear land without checking for erosion risks.
- You can’t plant without confirming your soil won’t cause problems downstream.
-
You can’t dig if there are waterways or protected areas nearby.
-
Every step has to be inspected, approved, and reviewed… usually twice.
We worked with an engineering firm, the county, and even the Army Corps of Engineers. What was supposed to take 10 days took months. Not just waiting—but constant back-and-forth, resubmissions, new requirements, and more patience than I thought I had.
But we made it through. Slowly. Eventually. And we are finally at the stage where things are moving.
Where We Are Right Now
Now that the permits are finally behind us, the fun part has started.
Here’s what’s happening on the land right now:
- Our home is a few months out from being finished
- The area is being cleared for flower beds
- Landscaping is in progress
- The parking lot is being prepared for visitors next spring
- And planting begins this upcoming spring
North Carolina is humid and wild, so everything grows fast… including things we didn’t plant. We’re clearing volunteer trees, preserving the soil, and preparing long-term beds that will support perennials, flowers that take a few years to fully mature.
It finally feels real seeing progress every time we drive out to the property.
The Big Vision for Taeda Farms
We’re building this farm in phases so it grows naturally and sustainably.
Phase 1: You-Pick Flower Experience
This is where it all begins.
Visitors will be able to walk the fields, pick flowers, take pictures, enjoy nature, and spend time on the farm. For anyone who loves being outside as much as I do, this will be such a peaceful, beautiful experience.
Phase 2: Cabins + Coffee Shop
As the farm matures, we’ll build small cabins for overnight stays, along with a cozy coffee shop. A quiet, nature-filled getaway right on the property.
Phase 3: The Lodge
Eventually, we plan to add a larger lodge for:
- Weddings
- Bridal and baby showers
- Retreats
- Events
- Family gatherings
The kind of place that brings people together and feels like home.
When Will Taeda Farms Open?
We’re aiming for late May 2026 for our first public event, right when the first blooms should be popping.
It’s taken longer than we expected, but the timing feels right. Good things grow slowly.
How You Can Stay Connected
If you want updates, behind-the-scenes progress, flower info, livestock additions, and my from-scratch recipes:
Instagram: @TaedaFarms
Website & Newsletter: TaedaFarms.com
You can also follow my personal adventures in slow living, homesteading, cooking, and motherhood on my own account. I love sharing the real, imperfect, everyday moments that make up our life.
This farm has been a dream built with patience, problem-solving, and a whole lot of heart. Thank you for being here, for cheering us on, and for supporting Taeda Farms even before we’ve planted the very first flower.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the farm soon. 🌸
Listen to the full podcast episode with Brittni Schroeder HERE
