News Summary
Lakewood Tree Farm, launched by Glen and Lindsey Miller in Chapin, South Carolina, creates joyful holiday memories while honoring Lindsey’s late father. The farm offers Christmas trees and has plans for future community activities, including charity initiatives to support local causes. It symbolizes the Millers’ dedication to family, connection, and giving back to the community.
Chapin, South Carolina – In December 2019, Glen and Lindsey Miller launched Lakewood Tree Farm, a unique venture aimed at honoring Lindsey’s late father, Steffen Lake, while providing families an opportunity to enjoy the holiday season. Located on eight acres on Sid Bickley Road, the farm focuses on creating joyful memories and offering Christmas trees to visitors.
The Miller family’s journey began in the summer of 2001 when Glen and Lindsey met while coping with their respective losses; Glen had lost his brother, and Lindsey her father to cancer. Their developing friendship played a crucial role in Glen’s healing process and formed the foundation for their enduring bond. Following high school, both pursued separate paths—Glen worked as a mechanic before transitioning into emergency medical services as a paramedic for a decade, while Lindsey graduated from Trident Technical College and became a nurse practitioner, eventually returning to Chapin.
After more than ten years apart, Glen and Lindsey reunited and married, eventually welcoming two daughters, Reagan and Madison. The desire to create a connection for their daughters with their grandfather led them to establish Lakewood Tree Farm. Glen committed to a detailed ten-year plan, which includes planting 300 cypress trees annually and performing essential maintenance tasks like shaping and grass cutting. His investment in refurbishing the existing home and outbuildings exemplifies their dedication to making the farm a warm and inviting space.
Initially addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Glen took on the role of a stay-at-home dad while also focusing on developing the tree farm. In response to community needs, the farm features a recently completed shaded pavilion that acts as a hub for family activities. Additionally, Glen and Lindsey refurbished two buildings on the property for regular activities and special occasion photography, enriching the farm’s offerings for visitors.
Lakewood Tree Farm is not solely focused on profit; the Millers also actively contribute to their community. They partnered with the local charity, Boys Farm in Newberry, which supports disadvantaged boys. To bolster their charitable efforts, the farm offers Christmas tree ornaments highlighting Boys Farm, further intertwining their values of community connection and philanthropy.
Glen finds fulfillment in the physical labor required to cultivate Lakewood Tree Farm, taking pride in overcoming challenges associated with the growing business. The Millers are also contemplating the introduction of autumn activities, such as a pumpkin patch, as part of their future plans. This potential expansion aligns with Glen’s nostalgic memories of selecting a Christmas tree as a child, symbolizing the experiences he desires to recreate for families who visit the farm.
Overall, Lakewood Tree Farm represents a way for Glen and Lindsey Miller to transform their personal grief into a community asset, offering a space for families to connect, create memories, and celebrate the holiday season.
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Additional Resources
- Columbia Star: Lakewood Tree Farm – A Family Affair
- Wikipedia: Christmas Tree
- Columbia Star: Lakewood Tree Farm News
- Google Search: Lakewood Tree Farm
- Columbia Star: Holiday News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Christmas
- Columbia Star: Local Community News
- Google News: Lakewood Tree Farm
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
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