A local New York farm stands out in a national spotlight
# **From Backyard Lavender to Business Empire: How One Woman Built a Fast-Growing Women-Led Company**
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## **A Humble Start with Bold Ambition**
What began as a simple backyard experiment has blossomed into one of America’s most exciting women-run businesses. **Monica Cody**, the founder of **Farmstead 1868**, transformed a family dairy plot into a thriving lavender farm and wellness brand—proving that innovation can sprout from the most unexpected places.
Today, her farm isn’t just about lavender; it’s about **opportunity**. By tapping into the surging demand for natural scents, handcrafted goods, and immersive farm experiences, Cody has cultivated something far greater than a business—she’s built a movement.
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## **The Power Behind the Growth**
Her rapid rise caught the eye of **Inc. Magazine** and the prestigious **Female Founders 500 list**, which highlights women-led companies generating **$12.3 billion in sales** and securing **$12.2 billion in investment**. The selection process is rigorous, evaluating not just financial success but **creativity, social impact, and audience expansion**.
Past honorees include icons like **Billie Jean King** and **Serena Williams**, underscoring a powerful truth: **gender barriers are crumbling**—even in industries once dominated by men.
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## **From Farmers Markets to a Nationwide Brand**
Cody didn’t start with a grand vision. **Curiosity led her to plant lavender** on land her family had tended for five generations. What began with local farmers market sales—where neighbors eagerly bought sachets and seedlings—soon grew into an **online storefront** and **boutique partnerships** across the country.
Now, customers can order lavender sugar online or find essential oils in specialty shops over a hundred miles away. What started as a small experiment has become a nationally recognized brand.
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Sustainability as the Foundation
Behind the success, sustainability drives every decision. Farmstead 1868 follows strict guidelines to protect pollinators, ensure humane animal care, and eliminate plastic waste. Packaging shifts from single-use plastics to compostable materials, proving that eco-conscious choices don’t compromise quality.
These small but meaningful changes reflect a deeper commitment: caring for the land while meeting consumer demand.
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Why Women-Led Businesses Are Reshaping Industries
Industry experts agree: success isn’t just about revenue. Women-led ventures create jobs, revitalize rural economies, and pioneer cleaner production methods.
Cody’s story is a testament to this. What began with a single crop—lavender—has sparked wider change, influencing agriculture, wellness, and the future of small business.
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The Future Is Purple
From a backyard experiment to a fastest-growing women-run company, Farmstead 1868 proves that big dreams don’t always need big starts. With every harvest, every sale, and every sustainable choice, Monica Cody is rewriting the rules—and the landscape—of modern business.
