Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Lokken
Rachel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My husband Cory and I first met in January 2014. Over the years, we had talked often about settling onto rural land where we could live out all of our homesteading dreams. A place where we could raise animals, have an apiary to keep honeybees, grow a large bountiful garden and handcraft all sorts of different items. In June 2017, we moved into our first home and this little hobby farm is what inspired me to create ‘Hay Creek Farm’.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Hobby farms, while rewarding, come with a range of challenges. Balancing farm chores with work and personal life can be difficult, as managing animals, crops, and maintenance often requires a significant time commitment. Hobby farms typically don’t generate enough income to be self-sustaining, making it hard to cover operating costs such as feed, equipment, and maintenance. The physical labor required for farm work, including feeding animals, cleaning coops, harvesting crops, and maintaining infrastructure, can be exhausting, especially when there’s limited help. Weather can significantly impact productivity, and we have faced challenges during extreme conditions like droughts and harsh winters.
Despite these struggles, my husband and I find the lifestyle fulfilling due to the personal satisfaction and connection with nature it provides.
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 am a full time Personal Banking Officer, but in my free time I am a Fiber Artist. I specialize in knitting and crocheting all kinds of different items. I enjoy creating timeless pieces for people. For example; baby clothing, winter accessories, animals, nature decor, home & kitchen goods, and much more.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Creativity and craftsmanship. In a field where the uniqueness of each piece is highly valued, having the ability to create original, high-quality designs that stand out id important to me. This quality ensures that my products resonate with customers who appreciate the artistry behind the work. Along with creativity, attention to detail and a commitment to quality, natural materials are also essential, as they enhance the durability and aesthetic appeal of my fiber art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.haycreekfarm.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haycreek_farm?igsh=MTJsYmZuOG1vdjQ4NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18eGiQZXLc/?mibextid=wwXIfr
