Hey, there. I am Mallory Toops, owner of Tate Flower Farm.
I am 28 years old and am starting my third year of flower farming. Many people ask me how I got started flower farming. Well, the answer is simple- Agriculture and farming are in my blood.
By growing up on a grain and livestock farm, I have seen hard work firsthand. From long nights to early mornings, I have seen generations- my great grandparents, grandparents, parents, and brother- dedicate so much of their time tending to the land and animals. What a blessing it was to be raised on a farm.
I have had the privilege of living next door to my great grandma for 20+ years. I can remember being in elementary school, getting off of the school bus, and running over to my great grandma’s house to visit. Our relationship has been incredibly special to the both of us throughout the years. My great grandma is 100 years old now and has a front row seat to my flower farm dreams. What she may not know is that she planted the love of nature within me. I can remember her admiring nature, sharing horticultural knowledge with me, sharing stories of when she’d help my grandpa plow the fields, and using her creativity to enhance life’s beauty. She was my inspiration to start my flower farm.
My great grandma, Tommy, has been a widow for over ten years after marrying the love of her life, in which she met at 14 years old. Her heart was broken when her best friend (my great grandpa) was no longer with her. The last few years of her life she has been discouraged without her person. I had the idea, after having the experience of working at a flower farm, to bring my own flower farm to her. When I told her about my vision, she was instantly delighted! Flowers were always something that my great grandparents bonded over. My great grandparents always had admirable flower beds and grew some of the same flowers I do now. I believe that my flower farm is keeping her inspired and gives her something to look forward to– my ultimate goal. When we spend time together, she is always eager to know what I’m up to next. She enjoys talking about all things farming, flower varieties, and reminds me I am working too hard. She is a constant reminder to me that God blesses us everyday with nature’s beauty.
I hope that my page inspires you to slow down, enjoy the simple things, and to connect with nature. Thanks for being here and for all of the support. Without you, my dreams are nothing!
Mallory
