For third- and fourth-generation farmers Ginger Atkins, Jill George and Brooke Coffey, memories flourish where flowers grow —  on the family farm that’s blossomed into a community haven.

Sisters Ginger and Jill grew up on their parents’ farm in Hickman, Kentucky, and continued operations after their father, Doyle Wayne George, passed away in 2009. They’ve continued growing corn and soybeans like their father, but with Jill’s daughter, Brooke, they added you-pick flower rows in 2023. With no idea what to expect, they welcomed 190 visitors on their first day.

“That’s the spark that encouraged us,” Brooke said.

Rooted in family

The new addition deserved a name. First Love Farms, inspired by the “First Love” silverware pattern featuring delicate roses and handed down to each woman in their family for four generations, was born.It’s a heartfelt tribute to Sue Werner, the family matriarch who passed away in 2021.

“Everybody knew Mom,” Jill said. “She worked at the bank, was an avid gardener, loved her yard and always had a smile on her face. She kept a row of zinnias in her (vegetable) garden.”

Now they watch with delight as people from Western Kentucky, West Tennessee and beyond stroll through their rows of zinnias, sunflowers, daisies and more. Jill, who lives on the farm, often sees guests enjoying quiet moments at sunrise, while watching butterflies, hummingbirds and yellow finches dance through the blooms.

Celebrate and create

Patrons begin their visit at a flat-bed trailer, where they choose a jar or small bucket, fill it with water and grab scissors. Then, they wander the rows to cut and create their own bouquets. Payment is simple — cash or Venmo.  

“It’s all on the honor system, and it’s worked really well,” Brooke said.

With photography passes available, families can capture precious memories of engagements, weddings, gender reveals and more. Colorfully painted wooden butterflies dot the landscape, perfect for kids and families to snap photos. Jill’s friendly dog, Mo, is always nearby, happy to entertain visitors in exchange for a few head scratches.

From June to October, the farm transforms with the seasons, starting with daisies in late spring and ending with pumpkins in the fall. The on-site pavilion is available to rent for birthday parties, office retreats or a relaxing day with friends.

An unexpected but joyful benefit of hosting events has been partnering with local talent to offer art, flower arranging and yoga classes.

“It’s fun to see people channel their creative side at First Love,” Brooke said, with Ginger adding that the flowers are “catnip to children” and perfect for passing on their passion for God’s creation.

“Sharing something that we love doing is really rewarding,” Brooke said.

Plan your visit

Whether you’re looking to pick a bouquet, snap a photo or soak in the beauty, First Love Farms welcomes you to make your own memories among the blooms.

First Love Farms is located at 3105 KY-125, Hickman, KY 42050.
Find them on Facebook and Instagram or visit firstlovefarms.com for more information.