“I’ve enjoyed the green industry because of the passionate and sharing nature of the individuals.  The horticulture industry is forever evolving and the amount of learning is endless.  I enjoy sparking the flame in folks who see how exciting it is to be creative with flowers, and how learning to grow and try is very fulfilling and rewarding experience.“

Q: Tell us about your agricultural operation, your background and how you got started in agriculture. 

As long as the weather is nice, you will constantly see me outside either digging in the dirt or arranging flowers, or cutting them for our new boutique located three miles away in Eastville.

My background in horticulture of 28 years has led me to this passion-filled life of spreading the joy of flowers and education to create more passionately inspired green individuals! Longwood Gardens Alum, I have worked in every facet of the Green Industry, Landscape Design, Plant Purchasing,  Estate Gardening in Wilmington, DE, Floral Design at Merion Golf Course, Planter Design, my own company, V Designs, and most recently, flower farming the last four years on my farm, Sweetbay Farms, and in May I opened up a Floral Design Studio in Cape Charles, Coastal Flower Company LLC selling farm fresh florals and vintage gifts, doing event design, and floral delivery, and offering educational classes.

Q: What does working in agriculture, and specifically being a woman in agriculture, mean to you?

I’ve enjoyed the green industry because of the passionate and sharing nature of the individuals.  The horticulture industry is forever evolving and the amount of learning is endless.  I enjoy sparking the flame in folks who see how exciting it is to be creative with flowers, and how learning to grow and try is very fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Q: What do you wish the next generation of women in agriculture would know about your work? What advice would you give them?

There are many, many facets of the industry. If you are passionate about what you do, it will shine through, and you should not give up.  There is always someone in this industry who is willing to share knowledge and offer encouragement.

Q: Have you had access to formal education or informal training programs to help you grow your operation?

Yes, I have been formally trained and also have been fortunate enough to take many classes, and also provide classes myself on different subjects. I enjoy giving back to the community that has shared so much with me.

Q: What would make it easier for women in agriculture to access the capital they need?

I would love to find access to capital for hoophouses to grow in, in this specific area of Virginia.

Q: What technologies or innovations have made the biggest difference on your farm? How do you stay informed about best practices, weather, markets, or new technologies?

Most recently we have utilized web services to spread the availability of our products to the general public.

Q: Describe a specific challenge you faced and how you overcame it. 

We are growing on a farm that has sat stagnant for over 30 years, and we are slowly working with VT to help educate us on the different applications to battle and overcome weed pressure.