Lavender Dreams: How a Couple's Trip to a Farmer's Market Sparked a Blooming Business with Windy Mack

Let's delve into the key takeaways from this episode and discover the lessons we can apply to our own journeys.

1. Choose Your Land Wisely:
When embarking on a new venture, it is crucial to select the right location. Terry and Windy emphasized the importance of finding suitable land for their lavender farm. By carefully considering factors like soil quality, climate, and accessibility, they set the foundation for a successful business. This decision not only impacts the quality of their lavender but also influences their ability to attract customers and grow awareness.

2. Seek Support and Learn From Others:
Terry and Windy shared how the local farming community played a pivotal role in their journey. They highlighted the support they received from experienced farmers. Building connections and leveraging the knowledge of established professionals can fast-track your learning curve and provide valuable insights specific to your industry.

3. Education is Key:
To enhance their knowledge, Terry and Windy enrolled in an online course on lavender farming offered by Michigan State University. This educational opportunity allowed them to gain a comprehensive understanding of lavender cultivation and connect with other farmers through networking links provided by the university. Investing in education and continuous learning, whether through formal courses or interactions with industry experts, is crucial for success in any field.

4. Develop a Solid Business Plan:
Every successful business starts with a well-crafted business plan. Terry and Windy stressed the importance of asking tough questions and addressing challenges in their plan. They thoughtfully considered factors such as commitment, disliked tasks like weeding, and long-term goals. Writing a business plan forces you to confront potential obstacles and develop strategies to overcome them. It acts as a roadmap for your entrepreneurial journey.

5. Create Multiple Streams of Income and Awareness:
To increase awareness of their lavender farm, Terry and Windy opened a storefront in downtown Plymouth. This strategic move not only enabled them to generate a second stream of income but also allowed them to introduce their farm to a broader audience. By diversifying their revenue streams and leveraging the power of storytelling, they created a double impact—an increase in both income and awareness.

Conclusion:
The world of lavender farming offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs pursuing their dreams. By incorporating the lessons learned from Terry and Windy, we can navigate our own journeys more effectively. Remember, building a successful business takes time, dedication, and continuous learning. So, let's cultivate our own “happy place” and turn our passions into purpose-driven endeavors.

About the Guest –
Windy and her husband Terry own a Lavender farm called Belle Lavande out of Stockbridge, Michigan. All their products are made in house and are 100% Natural Non-GMO.

They have a storefront in Downtown Plymouth and they have their products in FreshThyme Market. What started this journey was when Windy and Terry went on a trip up north to Glenn Arbor. They went to a coffee shop in town and then they went to a farmers market. They really enjoyed the atmosphere of the market and wanted to find something that they could sell. They chose to grow lavender because it is an easy going plant that does not require a lot of attention.

How to Connect Windy Mack :

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/azwindy/?hl=en
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/windy.mack.1
Website – https://www.belle-lavande.com/
Balle LaVande Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064857935698