“It is often said if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life. For us, today, that statement couldn’t hold more true. Old World Garden Farms has been our passion now for 15+ years – and for good reason. We love what we get to do every single day here at the farm – and now love it even more that we get to share it with you!” – Jim & Mary Competti

Jim and Mary Competti never imagined that a simple joke would grow into a life-changing adventure. In 2010, the couple started a small blog called Old World Garden Farms as a lighthearted way to document their efforts to create a three-acre homestead where they could grow their own food, raise a few chickens, and escape the hustle and bustle of their professional careers.

What began as a fun side project to share stories with friends and family quickly took on a life of its own. Their blog resonated with readers worldwide, inspiring others to embrace simpler, more sustainable lifestyles. Over time, Old World Garden Farms evolved from a digital diary into a go-to resource for gardening, DIY projects, and recipe advice.

Jim and Mary’s authentic storytelling, practical tips, and willingness to share both successes and failures attracted millions of followers and led to the publication of several books on gardening, as well as a Simple Garden podcast, YouTube channel and 6 additional home, garden & cooking websites.

Meanwhile, their farm dream grew as well. In 2020, the original three-acre farm was sold and the couple embarked on a new full-time adventure – turning a vacant, overrun 20 acre parcel of land into what can best be described as a mini farm resort.

In just five short years, The Farm @ Old World Garden has grown into a 46 acre farm, featuring 3.5 miles of walking/hiking trails, gardens, and pathways. This year, the farm will add a 2+ acre Grassland showcasing native and ornamental grasses. There are multiple cabins for overnight stays, a party barn, an outdoor kitchen, a pond with a covered pavilion.

In addition, there will be a 3,100-square-foot event center that will open in August of 2025 to hosts weddings and events year-round.

Through it all, Jim and Mary have remained true to their original mission: to live simply, enjoy the land, and share their journey and their farm with others. What started as a joke has become a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, mixed in with a lot of humor to get through it all!