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 more than 30 acres, raising heritage red wattle pigs, F1 waygu cattle, Katahadin sheep, free-range chickens and pasture eggs. Several hives produce honey. Helping the goats birth their kids has become a regular practice. They installed several hoop houses, allowing them to farm 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 weekly farm stands and special events. They also have a presence at the nearby Wheaton Farmer’s Market on Saturdays and LaGrange Farmer’s Market on Thursdays.

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

Your local farmers are looking forward to meeting you.