Our Origin Story: From Creative Chaos to Homestead Harmony
Two storytellers, a love that spanned miles, and a dream that took root on five acres of land.
A Love Story Born on a Film Set
Who would have thought that a dusty Western film set would be the start of something bigger than just a movie? That’s where our paths first crossed—amidst rolling cameras, creative chaos, and the unmistakable energy of a Neil Young production. At the time, life had its own script for each of us, and we went our separate ways.
But fate had other plans. A few years later, we met again—this time, on tour. Long road trips, late-night conversations, and shared meals became the foundation of something neither of us could ignore. We fell in love, hard. But there was just one little problem… a thousand miles between us.
Long-Distance Love & Life-Changing Choices
For two years, we did the long-distance thing—countless flights, endless calls, and a whole lot of missing each other. I’m Adam Vollick—a cinematographer, girl dad, husband, rookie farmer, and one-half of Holler & a Half. Jess, my partner in all things, was deep into culinary projects in Nashville, just wrapping up the sale of her restaurant. Life was pulling us in different directions, yet we were determined to build something together.
Love Wins (Even in a Pandemic)
Fast forward to January 2020, we tied the knot. Just as we were finding our rhythm, the world turned upside down. Borders closed, and suddenly, we were long-distance again. Jess was in the middle of packing up her life—horse, dogs, and all—to move to Canada when the pandemic hit. The wait was long, but it only strengthened our commitment to each other. Finally, in July 2020, we reunited in Queenstown, Ontario.
Finding Our Roots & A Homestead of Our Own
Lo With our family growing hello, baby Velvet! , we started dreaming of a space to put down roots. We had been experimenting with an edible yard in Queens ton—turning every inch of our tiny outdoor space into a mini garden—but we wanted more.
Canada had become increasingly expensive, so we set our sights south, back to where Jess had called home. That’s when we found our dream farm—five acres, a big old barn, and endless possibilities. Sight unseen except for Jess’ dad giving us the fixer-upper thumbs up, we took the leap. And we’re so glad we did.
A Different Kind of Homesteading Life
Now, we’re here—figuring out how to blend our creative pasts with our homesteading future. I still work in film. Jess still weaves storytelling and food together in ways only she can. But in between, we’re raising our daughter, tending to our horses (Jonesy, Chuckie, and a sassy pony named Play-Doh), gathering eggs from our chickens, and learning how to live more self-sufficiently every day.
We’re not the traditional homesteading family—you won’t find prairie dresses or Bible quotes here (though, if that’s your thing, we support you!). We believe in inclusivity, creativity, and community. Our doors are open to anyone who wants to grow, learn, and laugh with us.
