Back in 2009, Rebecca and her husband Philip were milking cows in a partnership when the price of milk dropped. Rebecca decided to do something about it to increase the family’s income. She opened an honesty box shop beside their house and this is how Tinahely Farm was developed.

Rebecca made a black board for the front gate, grew vegetables, made pots of jam and elderflower cordial, fashioned flower arrangements and also had a little antique section.

On a Saturday, she would take in an average of €85.00 and she was happy. The cows were subsequently sold and the cow shed was converted into a farm shop.

Rebecca sent her husband down to Ballymaloe Cookery School for a week of cooking and they have never looked back. The business is gradually growing and Rebecca focuses on providing variety and an artistic experience for the customers. The shop offering now includes over 150 artisan food products, 40 farmhouse cheeses, beautiful crafts and gifts, traditional toys, handmade dolls, pottery and lots more.

A petting farm complements the offering in the shop and a play barn with Co Wicklow’s largest indoor beach offers families a safe and fun play experience.

As the business stands today, the turnover is €320,000 and growing. The business plan is on target and working. Rebecca has started her own range of china, which complements the farm shop and is a big seller. She is continually thinking of new ideas. A new website has also been developed.

Rebecca’s philosophy is that they don’t sell anything that they don’t like or use in the shop. Their three small children (Hannah, Harry and Archie) play a big role in tasting and testing.

Rebecca sets a high standard and initially she found this difficult because of a tight financial budget. Rebecca is innovative and resourceful.

Last winter she needed a heating system in the café. Rebecca sourced an old Aga and put it in for under €1,200 and now it is the focal point of the café on a chilly morning. The Farm Shop is beautiful, interesting and practical and the business continues to grow. Rebecca now employs six part-time staff.