Today we’d like to introduce you to Karyn Brisk.
Karyn, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My story starts with me being born in Mississippi on a naval base and moving everywhere- even overseas- throughout my childhood. I joined the Air Force and became a Staff Sgt. I learned so much in the Air Force and was trained as a surgical technician. My husband and I moved to Minnesota when I got out of the AF after 7 1/2 years. My husband had went to the U of M and liked it here so we moved to Maple Grove. I went back to school when our kids were little. I graduated with my nursing degree in 2016 and still work part time in the operating room. My husband and I had been talking about our values and what really matters to us in this life. I decided to start this small business that I had been dealing of for awhile. My husband has always supported me so I set off to work. I’m growing beautiful, flowy flowers like cosmos, nigella, and daucus along with classics like tulips, daffodils, dahlias, zinnias, and peonies. I’m also dedicationg some space for growing fruit (strawberries, raspberries), vegetables (beans, peas, lettuce, zucchini, pumpkins etc), and herbs (chamomile, dill, basil etc) for a roadside stand. I feel very passionate about pollinators, soil health, and helping people in need.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’m doing this mostly by myself with some weekend help from my husband. My main challenge is time. I also put together my website myself and that’s been a definite learning curve.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m growing flowers, vegetables, and herbs. This year I’m putting in a flower field so people can stop by and pick their own bouquet. The thing I’m most proud of is how I’m starting to build something that is good for people and the environment. This adventure really aligns with my values.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I was more of a risk taker when I was younger, but I think you have to have hope to take risk. Therefore, I’m always taking calculated risks. The biggest risk I’m taking is starting this business without knowing the outcome. But, I mitigate that risk by working relentlessly. I really believe that small field farming is going to be more and more important as more farmland is destroyed every year.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thefarmcambridge.com
