When deciding on a name for my brand I thought about all the things that are important to me. There are many ways I define myself, but farming has to be one that truly runs through my veins. I come from a very long line of farmers from South Jersey. Hard work, determination, and a great love of the land are all things that I hold near and dear. My father, grandfather, and great-grandfather's poured their blood, sweat, and tears into the land, and I feel as though it's my responsibility to continue upholding the legacy of farming - stewards of the land.
Nothing is more satisfying than driving around the backroads in my home county of Salem and taking in all the glorious rolling fields of crops with marshland, creeks & rivers just around the bend. Fresh seasonal produce in the spring, summer & fall can be found spattered every few miles - mostly on the honor system. This part of Jersey is the least populated area in the state and surprises many visitors. If you're not from South Jersey, I encourage you to take a day trip once the weather gets nice and enjoy a peaceful ride in the countryside.
Although I do not have my own piece of land, yet, I do have a love of gardening and working the land. My earliest childhood memories are of playing at the farm, collecting eggs, chasing chickens, and picking sweet corn in the fields on a sweltering July day. More times than I can count did we get the call about the sheep escaping their pen or a chicken trying to cross the road. All these things were normal to me and collecting a couple of dozen fresh eggs from the barn was a happy pass time on weekends.
The Farmer's Daughter Candle Co. logo is based on my family's dairy farm lettering. The barn in the background is based on a sketch of the very same farm. Although the farm no longer has dairy cows, we do have sheep, chickens, and ducks. Each fall we harvest soybeans from nearly 100 acres of land - and that's one of the many reasons I decided to use soy wax for my candles! The mason jar vessels and twine tied around the neck of each candle are also a nod to farming and a simpler way of life.
Nowadays there is a strong community of farmers that are sharing stories and building their own family businesses on social media. My hope is that this year I'm able to help support local farmers from Salem County and beyond by sharing their stories on social media and at local events. If you're in need of some recommendations on how to navigate Salem County... I know a thing or two!
Love Always,
Meg
Thanks