Leveling Up: A peek at our growth and a view of where we’re headedThe Magic Bean Farm has been busy, delivering flowers, hosting workshops, and getting the kids back to school. In this brief window between the end of summer and wreath season, I find myself reflecting on the year, and forming new systems to handle the growth at The Magic Bean Farm. Over the past five years I’ve been expanding offerings and growing steadily, and this year it feels like I’m in new territory and ready to upgrade some old systems. This is both exciting and scary. I’ve done a lot of nerdy spreadsheets to see how the farm is growing and to make sure that this business is a viable way to support my family. What I’ve found is that the farm has grown steadily by around 30% each year for the past four years, with this year on track to be closer to 35% growth over last year. This is a lot of growth, especially for a one-woman operation! When any business scales up it’s important to assess old systems, especially those that no long serve the needs of the business. But change is scary! Leveling up means keeping track of more orders, being consistent, constant communication with vendors and customers, and so much more. I’m working with intentionality to expand my network - partnering with other organizations and businesses to create opportunities that feel aligned with The Magic Bean Farm. If this all seems a little vague, that’s because it is! I’m in the process of clarifying the million ideas flying around in my head and my goal is to get them on paper, make them actionable, and share them with you as soon as I can. Where We’re headedMany of the changes I’ve mentioned have to do with bookkeeping, organization, and back end processes that won’t directly affect customers. You’ll still be able to get our flowers from places like Fox Market, Marshfield Village Store, AR Market, Emslie’s and Wyldling. We’ll just change up some systems that no longer serve our farm and hopefully make your Magic Bean Farm experience a little easier and more enjoyable! We will also be expanding some offerings, partnering with organizations to host pop up events, offering new workshops, and having a handful of on farm events in the future. The Magic Bean Farm is now a member of the Vermont Crafts Council, and next year we hope to participate in open studio weekend so you can see my workspace! Subscribing to this newsletter (and sharing it with friends) or following The Magic Bean Farm on Social media is a great way to stay informed. Our Flowers for the People project also continues to expand and if you are able to support this work I am so grateful. Visit the Flowers for the People page to learn more and make a one-time donation or become a sustaining member. Our next Flowers for the People project is happening in October and we will be making floral hat decorations and blending herbal tea with residents at Westview Meadows. I greatly appreciate your support as this little farm dream of mine blooms. Thank you! Your Magic Bean Farmer, Sarah
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