The Story of Pennings Farm Market: A Tale of Family, Farming, and Community

When we sat down with Stephen Pennings for a chat, we were immediately struck by his warm and down-to-earth demeanour. Stephen, the man behind Pennings Farm Market, runs this vibrant family business alongside his wife, Jill, and their two children. The farm is more than just a market; it’s a beloved local institution filled with apples, pumpkins, cider, and memories that stretch back generations.

From Dairy Farms to Apple Orchards
Stephen’s story begins decades ago on a dairy farm. The second-youngest of ten children, he grew up amidst the hustle and bustle of farm life. His father, a Dutch immigrant, instilled in him a love for the land and a deep appreciation for hard work. But life had other plans. When Stephen was still young, his father retired from dairy farming, and the family’s farming legacy shifted to apples.

The apple orchard, originally purchased by Stephen’s oldest brother, eventually became the heart of Pennings Farm Market. Over the years, it has grown into a multifaceted operation, including a cidery, a farm market, and a garden center—all thriving under the loving guidance of Stephen, Jill, and their children Steve and Victoria.

The Birth of a Family Business
Stephen and Jill met in Warwick, where their story took root. He recalls with a laugh how he had to be “convincing” to win her over after their first meeting at the local grocery store. But eventually he won her over, and together, they built not only a family but a life centered around the farm.

For Stephen and Jill, raising their children was a team effort. Jill was the disciplinarian, while Stephen took on the role of the fun, playful dad. It’s a dynamic that worked well for them and, as Stephen points out with pride, helped raise two hardworking and passionate adults who have chosen to return to the family farm. “We told them to go out into the world, find careers,” Stephen shared, “but they came back with ideas and energy to help the farm evolve.”

Apples, Cider, and More
Pennings Farm Market is a celebration of all things local and seasonal. Visitors come to pick apples, sip hard cider, and wander through rows of pumpkins and decorative gourds. “In the Northeast, apple picking is a tradition,” Stephen explained. “We have families who came here as kids now bringing their own children.”

The farm operates on a simple but effective system: visitors purchase a bag before heading into the orchard to pick apples. This straightforward approach keeps the experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone. And while they trust their customers, Stephen admits with a chuckle that keeping an eye out for sneaky apple snatchers is part of the job.

A Journey of Evolution
One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation was learning how the farm adapted to tough times. At one point, Stephen and Jill weren’t sure they could keep the business going. “We were just tired,” Stephen said. But instead of giving up, they pivoted.

They opened a restaurant, acquired a liquor license, and launched the cidery. Stephen’s son– Steve, a cider enthusiast, played a key role in growing this part of the business. “It’s evolved beyond anything we expected,” Stephen reflected. The Pennings Farm Cidery, now in its eighth year, has become a cornerstone of the farm’s success.

The Joy of Community
What makes Pennings Farm Market truly special is its connection to the community. While many tourism-based businesses lose their local appeal, Stephen and Jill have managed to maintain a balance. Locals return after the busy apple-picking season, enjoying the calm and the sense of belonging the farm provides.

The farm isn’t just a place to work for the Pennings family; it’s a place of joy. Whether it’s transforming squash into lasagna or sipping a cider to unwind after a stressful day, Stephen finds happiness in the simple pleasures. “We’re blessed,” he said with a smile, summing up the journey that has been anything but ordinary.

Looking Ahead
As we wrapped up, we asked Stephen what’s next for the farm. He paused thoughtfully. “I don’t know,” he admitted. “It’s been a fun journey, and I don’t know where the next step will take us.” What’s certain, though, is that Pennings Farm Market will continue to be a cherished place where memories are made, families come together, and the apples—and dreams—are always ripe for the picking.

Until next time.

with Love,

Marco and Erica