Today we’d like to introduce you to Tommy Traxler.
Hi Tommy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Our family-owned maple syrup business is built on tradition, hard work, and a love for bringing people together. What started as a passion for maple sugaring has grown into something we’re proud to share with our community.
One of the best parts of this journey is seeing how maple syrup connects people to family memories and simple moments around the table. Every season comes with challenges, but it also reminds us why we love what we do.
As a small business, we’ve learned the importance of community, perseverance, and staying true to our values. We’re grateful for the support we’ve received and hope our story encourages others to pursue what they’re passionate about.
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?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges with the maple syrup business is that everything depends on the weather. Every season is different, and you never really know what you’re going to get. A good syrup season needs the right mix of cold nights and warm days, and if the weather doesn’t cooperate, it can really affect production.
We’ve also had our share of equipment struggles over the years. Breakdowns and unexpected repairs always seem to happen at the busiest times, so you learn quickly how important patience and problem-solving are. But those challenges have also taught us to adapt, work hard, and appreciate the good seasons even more.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
One of the biggest turning points in my career was leaving my 9–5 maintenance job to focus fully on our maple syrup business. When the opportunity came up to purchase additional land, I knew it was something I couldn’t pass up. It was a big risk, but I believed in the business and the future we could build for our family.
Farming and maple syrup production have taught me the value of hard work, patience, and taking chances when the opportunity feels right. One of the proudest moments for our business was being accepted into the Minnesota State Fair on our very first application. That was a huge accomplishment for us and a reminder that all the long hours and hard work were paying off.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Our success truly wouldn’t be possible without the support of our family. My significant other, Amber, and our three boys — Braxton, Nick, and Austin — are a huge part of the business and help in so many ways. From working in the woods during syrup season to helping at events and our annual open house, it’s truly a family effort.
We’re also incredibly grateful for our extended families, including our parents and siblings on both sides. They’ve all stepped in to help wherever needed, whether it’s lending a hand during busy times, supporting us at events, or simply encouraging us along the way. Having that kind of support system has made a huge difference and is a big reason why we’ve been able to grow the business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.faxonpuremaple.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faxonfarmspuremaplesyrup
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/faxonfarmspuremaplesyrup
- Other: tik tok
