Recently, I had a chance to catch up with Krystal Gurr the owner and operator of Traditional Family Farms. Traditional Family Farms offers a variety of farm-fresh foods delivered straight to your home. They deliver to Pinedale, Farson, Rock Springs, Green River, Evanston, Kemmerer, La Barge, Bridger Valley, and Big Piney on a weekly basis.
Their products include beef, pork, lamb, chicken, eggs, milk, cheese, homemade breads and desserts as well as fruits and vegetables!
In order to provide such a large variety of farm-fresh products, Krystal personally contributes and also works with other local farmers and ranchers.
Krystal’s passion for farming began when she was 8 years old when her family moved from the city to a farm in a small community in Idaho.
I felt like I had found my home and my passion. I dreamed of having my own farm and ranch someday.
-Krystal Gurr
She eventually went on to college and earned a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science. In between juggling the responsibilities of being a mother, she has always found a way to be involved in agriculture ever since.
Krystal and her family now enjoy having their own little farm and a few animals. Her goal has never been to market her own products but after seeing the struggle of those in the agriculture industry she believes it is the solution. “I would love to see other farmers and ranchers doing the same in their communities,” said Krystal.
TRADITIONAL FAMILY FARMS IN 3 WORDS
Faith, Family, Farming.
Traditional Family Farms began its journey in January of 2020 and they started selling products in May. Obviously, there was no way they could have predicted the struggles the country would be facing at the time but Krystal and her crew are grateful that they were able to offer another food source in a time when it was needed.
Growing up around farmers and ranchers, I know that the work rarely stops and dull moments are also rare. So I had to ask Krystal what she has learned so far about managing time. She explained that farming and ranching is a unique occupation. With animals to take care of, a business to run and five children she has encountered some struggles along the way. But with the help of her kiddos she’s been able to make it work.
The motto I try to live by is ‘work hard, play hard.’ My kids are a huge help and we work hard to try and keep up. But we also schedule in a little bit of fun. I believe balance makes the work and the fun more meaningful.
Krystal Gurr
The #HometownHustle series is made possible by:
Going back to the fact that farming and ranching includes very few dull moments, I had to ask Krystal what her favorite memory of this journey has been so far; it involves chickens and a family van…
Courtesy Photo
They needed to movie their chickens and at the time, the only vehicle they had was their little white delivery van, which also doubles as the family van. That night, the van also became the chicken mobile! When the chickens were asleep, they loaded up 138 of them into the back of the van. “I laughed all the way as my children died of embarrassment,” said Krystal. “It was definitely a memorable moment for Traditional Family Farms.”
For most businesses, 2020 was a challenging year. It was no exception for Traditional Family Farms. At one point, Krystal had to decide if she wanted to keep Traditional Family Farms going and if so some changes would need to be made. She feared that with changes would come negative results but that wasn’t the case. Krystal has always believed in her business and she knew these changes needed to be made although, she did struggle with an inner battle of self-doubt. “I believe that sometimes the biggest battle is in our own minds and overcoming our own thoughts,” explained Krystal. “I don’t know the long-term outcome for Traditional Family Farms but I am glad I won that battle and kept going. I am grateful for the opportunity it has given me to provide for my family and the experiences along the way, however long the ride.”
One of Krystal’s favorite parts of running her own business is being able to work closely with the different communities in Southwest Wyoming. She produces some products, while she works with other farmers and ranchers to produce the rest – this also allows her time to work with her customers. “I honestly love being involved in all three aspects. I love agriculture and I’m grateful to have a small hand in it. It’s been a privilege to work with farmers and ranchers who have such vast knowledge and experience,” explained Krystal. “I’ve also felt so much appreciation, patience, and kindness from the people of Southwest Wyoming.”
It’s been quite the year for Krystal and Traditional Family Farms; a year filled with learning, memories, and most importantly – good food. I asked Krystal if she had any wise words of advice she’d like to share with aspiring business owners/managers. Here’s what she said:
“To be honest, I feel a little intimidated giving advice. I feel more comfortable and confident on my horse chasing a cow rather than trying to run this business. But this business is what has given me that opportunity. I work hard to provide that lifestyle for my children as well. So, I guess my only advice is to choose a business you can be passionate about. When I feel completely inadequate and scared to death to talk to people, my passion gives me the words to say.”
Krystal knows how important the support of the community has been during her first year of business and is extremely grateful.
“At the one-year anniversary of Traditional Family Farms, I would like to offer a sincere THANK YOU to all of those who have supported us! Thank you for supporting our products and for your friendship as well!”
Give Krystal a call at (307) 371-1071
Place and order online HERE >
Keep up with Traditional Family Farms on Facebook HERE >
