Today we’d like to introduce you to Teresa Gallo.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always had a variety of interests from cooking to gardening to design but I had a difficult time choosing a single focus. I did know however that I wanted to be my own boss and create an organization of my own. I studied business management at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign which I felt would give me a solid foundation for whatever I chose to pursue.
My fiance, Benjamin, has always been passionate about farming and we both dreamed of settling down together on a farm one day. When Scott, an old friend, and boss, approached Ben to start a new farm I encouraged him to take the leap to pursue our dream ahead of schedule. Ben and Scott invited me to come on board and manage the sales, marketing, and operations of the farm, which I hastily accepted. I saw a broader vision for Milk & Honey as the lifestyle brand it could be and thought it would be a perfect outlet for my varied interests and talents.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As an organization, some of our biggest struggles have come from trial and error in the scope of farming activities we pursue. Our first year has been an incubator period where we’ve been trying to define who exactly we want to be and how best to grow in that direction.
Personally, I’ve struggled with self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which I’m still figuring out. But the biggest struggle for me has been trying to learn so much on the fly. As a first generation farmer, I had little to no farming experience beyond my backyard garden patch. Scott and Ben have a wealth of farming experience between them, yet I felt I had to become a sponge and learn as much as I could as fast as I possibly could about the industry to keep up.
I voraciously devoured everything from USDA and state regulations to farming best practices to direct farm marketing. I’m continually learning more and more each day in the hopes of being a better farmer, business owner, and community activist.
A smooth road does not a good driver make. The road has been rife with speed bumps and potholes but I feel nothing but gratitude for every single one.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Milk & Honey Farmstead – what should we know?
Milk & Honey is a suburban farmstead and cooperative. We produce pastured meat and eggs, raise crops without chemicals, and create natural lifestyle goods. We source some of our products from local like-minded cooperative partners so we can widen our product offerings and help those partners reach new markets.
We’re well-known for our fresh meat and eggs. Our animals are raised outdoors on pasture which gives them a happier, healthier life as nature intended. This produces more flavorful and nutritious meat. We currently have a large flock of heritage hens, a few ducks, woodland pigs, and Scottish Highlander cows. We also seasonally raise turkeys for Thanksgiving.
We’re proud of the variety of products we’re able to offer our customers. Though we have several mainstays, our product list is constantly changing and growing so we never have exactly the same items from one market to the next.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I owe my sanity to my fiance and partner, Benjamin Rustman. He keeps me grounded, picks me up when I’m down, and challenges me to be better in every way.
My mom and partner, Karen Guerriero, has had a tremendous influence on me as the amazing mother and entrepreneur she is. I strive to juggle family, work, and faith with as much grace and style as she does.
My partner, Scott Comstock, is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever known with the greatest attitude. He’s taught me so much and is continually supportive.
The list of influencers in my life is blessedly long. Topping the list is my dad Tony Gallo who taught me how to be assertive, as well as my older siblings who I owe my sense of humor, ambition, and confidence.
And that’s just the start! Too many other family members, friends and mentors to count have left an impression on me and continue to shape who I am. I’m constantly humbled by their support and love.
Contact Info:
- Address: 26241 Bonner Rd. Wauconda, IL 60084
- Website: milkhoneyfarmstead.com
- Phone: (224) 993-0520
- Email: info@milkhoneyfarmstead.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/milkhoneyfarmstead
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/milkhoneyfarmstead
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