About Us

Building this farmcart was a launching point for something I'm only just realizing is so much bigger. One of my finer qualities - the one that drives my husband nuts - is my never-ending ability to start new projects. I'm an ace at picking up a new hobby, launching into a whole craft, and having something baking in the kitchen, all at the same time. The catch? I often don't circle back to finishing. Laundry needs to be done, the outdoors beckons, and suddenly that craft is a distant memory. But that's what makes my husband and me such a great pair. I get to dream up a million new ideas, and with him by my side, we're bound to finish every single one.

Another thing about me is my do-it-all tendency. This little business has been a gift because I've never felt the need to hone in on a "niche." I've always been someone who struggles to "stay in her lane." Gardening? Yes. Baking? Forever. Sourdough? Check. Want to try woodworking? You bet! Maybe a pottery wheel? Okay! Made on Manning is the outpouring of all the things I love to do. And as you've probably gathered, there are a lot of things I love to do.

The biggest blessing of all is doing this alongside my family. My husband has supported and encouraged me since before day one. He's never once dissuaded or discouraged me. He stays up late to balance the books. He builds me ingredient cost calculators and email mail merge scripts. I honestly couldn't do this without him. (Or maybe I could, but it definitely wouldn't be fully compliant!) He's my biggest cheerleader and fan, and he even washes my dishes and plant trays for me (see aforementioned starting of many projects but severe lack of follow-through).

And then there are my four kids. We homeschool, so they're with me all day, every day, including the time I spend running this "business." It's been so fun that many of the jobs and activities required are things they can help with. Even my two-year-old started by peeling stickers for Mommy to put on bread bags. We plant together, cut flowers together, bake bread together, and eat cookies together. They are my little helpers, from the garden to the kitchen to running out to stock the farmcart all summer. I truly couldn't do it without them!

When we first came to Manning, I was making memories building this home, turning it into all we dreamed of. Now, I'm in a whole new era of making memories on Manning. Starting a business I never thought I would, launching this little farmcart into the world, and watching it take off. Of all the things I've made, baked, and grown here on Manning, the memories made here are my favorite of all.

With love, Sarah