As summer winds down, Mary and Leah look ahead to fall, the holidays, and the importance of supporting small businesses and rural communities.

In this episode, they welcome Kara from Inspiration Acres Christmas Trees and Gift Market in Wisconsin. Kara shares the story of how she and her sister started their Christmas tree business during the pandemic, eventually purchasing an established Christmas tree farm.

They talk about what goes into growing a Christmas tree, why it can take seven to ten years to bring a tree to market, which varieties have the best fragrance, and why real Christmas trees continue to hold such a special place in family traditions.

Kara also shares practical tips for caring for a real Christmas tree, creative ways to reuse a tree after the holidays, and how Inspiration Acres is creating an experience around Christmas trees through wreath and porch pot classes.

Mary and Leah also talk about shopping locally, making meaningful Christmas memories without spending a fortune, and how our purchasing choices can help strengthen the communities around us.

It is a warm conversation about agriculture, entrepreneurship, tradition, family, and finding a little joy in a busy season.

Find Inspiration Acres: inspirationacreswi.com Facebook and Instagram: Inspiration Acres Christmas Trees and Gift Market

Find Grit and Grace in the Heartland: gritandgraceintheheartland.com

Have a woman in agriculture with a story to share? Mary and Leah are looking for guests!