Marc and Luis Bernard dreamed of owning a farm. Marc, an executive chef for Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants at the time, figured it would be a few years out. His spouse, Luis, was earning his master’s degree and wanted to start his career as a special education teacher first.

But an opportunity presented itself in 2011 and they purchased a home with a barn on a five-acre property in Elburn, Illinois. They didn’t have any real experience but a part of the excitement would be learning, figuring it all out. They started from scratch, carving out growing areas, planting raspberry bushes and apple trees.

Today, they’re farming 18 acres, raising heirloom pigs, free-range chickens and pasture eggs. Several hives produce honey. Helping the goats birth their kids has become a regular practice. They installed a hoop house, allowing them to farm almost year-round.

The work is demanding but the Bernards couldn’t be more fulfilled. The farm has become an integral part of the community, welcoming residents to their twice-weekly farmstand and special events. They also have a presence at the nearby Wheaton Farmer’s Market on Saturdays.

Stop by for the next farmstand to try the heritage hog bacon or Rustic Road Farm honey. If there’s a vegetable variety you’ve always wanted to grow, share your passion with the Bernards.

Tour local farmers are looking forward to meeting you.

Life at Rustic Road Farm

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