Our Story

Mitch and Afton met tailgating at a Brewers game in June of 2012 where their mutual friend throws a big get-together every year that they both would help out with. They dated long distance for 2.5 years while Afton worked for Milwaukee Public Schools as a recreation supervisor and Mitch worked as a firefighter in Frederick, Maryland. Afton moved to Maryland for LOVE in 2015 and pursued her Masters degree in teaching and specialized in EL. Both originally from Wisconsin, Mitch had moved to Maryland in 2007 to be a full time firefighter. When it came to their marriage, they both came from large families and knew they had to get married back in Wisconsin. That started their search for a large venue with an outdoor feel and that’s when they found The Gathering Barn at Busy Barns Adventure Farm. Mitch and Afton celebrated their marriage on the farm in July of 2017. They continued their careers and lives out in Maryland, having their son Kai in 2018 and daughter Coral in 2020, little did they know… their lives weren’t going to be so ordinary for very much longer.

In 2020, Afton and Mitch, returned to visit family and friends in Wisconsin, and they stopped to visit Busy Barns and show their children where mommy and daddy held their wedding. When visiting, the owners asked what Mitch’s plan was after retiring from the fire department to which Mitch and Afton responded “we would love to do something like this.” Coincidentally, the owners were just looking into selling the farm, and knew Mitch and Afton would continue the success of Busy Barns.

Being a firefighter and teacher, Mitch and Afton were concerned if they would be able to take over the business, farming, and how they would be able to make this all work financially. Thankfully, after selling their home in Maryland, and working with the bank and the former owners, the sale of Busy Barns Adventure Farm and The Gathering Barn went through in August of 2022.

Some slight changes had to be made including the name of the farm to Busy Barn Farm Adventures LLC. The newest addition to the farm was the Christmas on the Farm experience which has grown into a family tradition for many.

Mitch and Afton have overcome many challenges, and they are finding their own path on the farm. Lots of learning is constantly taking place, thanks to local farmers, neighbors, staff members from the farm, and family they are learning and growing the farm. They are so grateful for the love and support of the community, farm family, friends and their personal family for all the help since beginning this journey.

They look forward to welcoming you as they continue to learn and grow the farm to even more exciting places. They look forward to being a part of your family's traditions and to bring the farm experience to all.