Nestled in between three zip codes, West Milford Farm beckons us to preserve the beauty and history of our families. The farm, named for Lightner West and the Milford family, holds a unique charm that has been cherished for generations.
Over the last ten years, Chad Milford and his partner Thomas have transformed this working farm into a luxurious venue that appeals to everyone's need for peace and tranquility. Chad's deep connection with his family's farm uniquely authenticates this authentic turn-of-the-century farmstead. Some of Chad's guests commented, "My blood pressure drops the minute I pull in the drive. I just feel a sense of calm come over me." Chad and Thomas love the history of these grounds just as much as the community aspect of running West Milford Farm. In the last year, West Milford has hosted private events and community-sponsored activities for the whole family. Weekly yoga classes, an outdoor Summer concert series, outdoor photography sessions, yearly Santa pictures, and a benefit Easter Egg hunt for the Free Home Elementary School Rocket Pantry, to name just a few. Generational longevity is the name of the game for Chad and his family. Currently, the fifth generation of Chad's family attends Free Home Elementary School, which shows the incredible staying power of a great community. One might say that remaining in one place for ten years is impossible for many to boast, but a family quickly approaching the 100-year mark is remarkable.
From the early beginnings of West Milford Farm, the acres of land have been home to family and friends, animals, and the spirit of togetherness. As pictured in the photo, children of West Milford claimed the grounds for America's favorite pastime of baseball. This same area now boasts a beautiful garden that provides the farm with sustenance and peace. Chad and Thomas never take a day off at the farm. Starting with the wedding of Chad's cousin in 2014 and a barn still full of hay, the idea of creating a space that would preserve the essence of Chad's family heritage and the beauty of the farm became more than a dream. With 30 acres dedicated to fulfilling the dreams of photographers, brides, musicians, and romantics, West Milford Farm provides endless opportunities for the greater Cherokee community to take advantage of over the year. If you are looking for pampering, West Milford Farm also has an answer to that request.
Along with the love of sweet puppy smooches from the delightful Goldendoodles, Bridget Barris was on-site at one of the unique components of West Milford Farm...The Greenhouse. Built from reclaimed windows from a local cotton mill, the ambiance of this structure is truly magical. Surrounded by plants of all kinds, a 360-degree view of the property provides each visitor with a surreal experience of looking at the farm from the inside out. Returning this Fall of 2024, Bridget Barris's independently owned company, Serene Complexions, will whisk you to a peaceful dreamland. Bridget is an accomplished aesthetician who uses expertise in holistic facial techniques to soothe your body from the inside out. You do not want to miss this cerebral opportunity to relax and be pampered.
As we look forward to 2025, we can anticipate the opening of the newly renovated FarmHouse, once the private residence of Chad and his partner. It will soon become the Bridal Suite, a perfect haven for all the beautiful brides of West Milford Farm.
As you can see, there is never a dull moment at West Milford Farm. The gorgeous landscape and comforting essence of the farm are a tribute to the owners' vision. It will continue to exceed the expectations of all its guests. From the community programs offered for all ages to the private moments one must cherish for a lifetime, one cannot go wrong in finding time to visit and play at West Milford Farm. Check out all the businesses mentioned in this article on Instagram: @WestMilfordFarm @SereneComplexions.
I knew I wanted to do something at the farm since I was a kid. I didn't know what it was, but I knew this place was special.