At La Ferme Quinn (Quinn Farm), every season brings something fresh and exciting—apple picking in the fall, baby animals in the spring, pumpkins and hayrides that make memories last a lifetime. But sometimes, the most meaningful harvest is not found in a basket, but in the stories and traditions that families carry with them. Recently, Phil and Stephanie Quinn received a heartfelt message from a family who has been visiting the farm for over a decade. Along with their note, they shared two photos—one taken 12 years ago, and one recreated this year in the very same spot. “We really enjoyed visiting your farm, meeting your animals and picking apples. Thank you for all that you do! I’m from a rural area and grew up around farms, and really miss the farm life. So it was lovely to visit your farm again (we haven’t gone in over a decade as a family—our kids have gone with their elementary schools). Our 4 kids recreated a photo we took of them 12 years ago at your farm, I thought you might like to see! We can’t wait to come back and go pumpkin picking!” The Power of Farm Experiences This simple act—recreating a photo—reminds us why agritourism is so much more than a fun day out. Farms like Quinn’s provide a place where families can reconnect not only with each other, but also with the land, the animals, and traditions that anchor them. When children return to a farm they visited years ago, they’re not just seeing fields of pumpkins or rows of apple trees. They’re stepping back into moments of laughter, learning, and togetherness. The familiar barn, the tractor rides, and even the scent of fresh apples create a bridge between past and present. Memories that Grow with Us As this family shared, visiting Quinn Farm wasn’t just about picking apples—it was about reliving a piece of their own story. For parents who grew up in rural areas, farms can feel like homecoming. For kids, it’s a chance to build their own library of memories, ones they’ll carry into adulthood. And for Phil and Stephanie, these stories are the heart of their work. Every pumpkin picked, every animal petted, every photo snapped represents another thread woven into the fabric of family tradition. Looking Ahead As autumn arrives, Quinn Farm welcomes thousands of visitors eager to make memories of their own. For some, it will be their first taste of farm life. For others, it’s the continuation of a tradition that has spanned years—or even generations. And for one family, the story continues this fall, as they return once more—this time to pick pumpkins, pose for photos, and keep building a tradition that is uniquely theirs. At Quinn Farm, it’s not just about what you harvest in the fields—it’s about the memories that last long after the season ends.

At NAFDMA Convention & Expo, something special happens the moment you arrive. Yes, you’ll find world-class educational sessions, inspiring keynotes, and plenty of innovative ideas to bring home. But ask any past attendee what really sticks with them, and you’ll hear the same thing again and again: the relationships. Networking at Convention isn’t just small talk over coffee—it’s conversations that can change the trajectory of your farm, your business, and your future. Here's some thoughts from current board members about the power of NAFDMA Networking. The Power of Peers Farming and agritourism can be lonely work. Few people truly understand the challenges of balancing crops, customers, and community. At NAFDMA, you’re surrounded by peers who not only understand but respect the unique path you’re walking. “Your peers at NAFDMA are the only people in the world who never call in sick! They respect your business as much as they respect theirs.” — Olivia Telschow, Helene’s Hilltop Orchard, Merrill, WI That mutual respect is the foundation for lasting connections. It’s what turns a quick introduction into a trusted friendship—and sometimes, into a future business breakthrough. Conversations that Open Doors Networking here isn’t about swapping business cards—it’s about discovering solutions you didn’t even know you needed. Every workshop, farm tour, and Expo booth creates space for conversations that spark ideas and build confidence. “Convention networking has been a tremendous asset in building our business. The knowledge we’ve gained from our peers has opened opportunities we never knew existed. Success becomes easier when we invest in the relationships we build through NAFDMA—these relationships will continue to open new doors!!” — Scott DeBuck, DeBuck’s Family Farms, Belleville, MI From Ideas to Inspiration The best part? Those conversations don’t stop when the Convention ends. They travel home with you, fueling creativity, problem-solving, and inspiration long after the event. “Networking at Convention has been invaluable for us. The chance to connect with peers who truly understand our industry has not only sparked new ideas but also created lasting relationships. Every conversation opens a door to fresh opportunities, and those connections continue to support and inspire long after Convention ends.” — Andrea DeJesus, A&H Farms, Manhattan, KS Every Handshake Matters Whether it’s a quick hallway chat, a roundtable discussion, or a shared meal, every moment is an opportunity to learn from someone who has walked the same rows you do. “At NAFDMA, every handshake carries the potential to change your farm, your business, and your future—the power of networking here is unmatched, and it isn’t just about sharing experiences; it’s about discovering solutions you never knew you needed from people who’ve walked the same rows you do.” — Alma Galloway, Galloway Farm, Hallsboro, NC Why NAFDMA Convention & Expo? Because in addition to the educational sessions, the Expo floor, and the farm tours—you gain something you can’t put a price on: a community. A network of peers who will answer the phone when you’re stuck, celebrate with you when you succeed, and inspire you to keep going when times are tough. That’s the heart of NAFDMA Convention & Expo. And it’s why year after year, attendees come back—not just for the content, but for the connections. ✨ Ready to open new doors for your farm and your future? Join us at the next NAFDMA Convention & Expo and experience firsthand the power of networking with peers who truly get it.