In YOUR Backyard: Morning Glory Orchard

Oct 11, 2022 at 12:55 pm by RMGadmin


Let's Go Apple Pickin'       

By Kristen Kelly
 
In 2002, Curt and Cristina Wideman entered an auction with the hopes of retiring, only to leave with an orchard right in the heart of Williamson County. This purchase was simply a leap of blind faith, especially for Curt, who was used to wearing a suit and tie at a nine-to-five job. Unexperienced in anything agriculture-related, the Wideman’s rolled up their sleeves and made it into a successful business that their family could enjoy and, even more so, the community here in Williamson County. “They never worked as hard as they did in retirement!” says Alyson Terrel, Owner/CEO and daughter to Curt and Cristina.
 
Sadly, in 2007, Curt passed away suddenly due to cancer, leaving the orchard in a state of disarray. Knowing how much the orchard meant to her parents, Alyson left her corporate job, just as her father once had, to ensure the orchard stayed a family business. “The love he had for this piece of land was so evident. He had always been a good father and husband, but he loved all of us so much more after they moved here. It was truly spectacular to see. I couldn’t imagine any of that disappearing, so I quit my job and came to work full time with my mom,” tells Alyson. 
Fast forward to 2022, Morning Glory Orchard is a thriving company that not only brings the experience of an apple orchard to the south but is actively involved in making the orchard an interactive experience. “There aren’t many apple orchards in the south, mainly because apples are a cold weather fruit, and it gets really hot here. Williamson County has embraced the fact that they are one of a few counties in the state to have an apple and peach orchard,” says Alyson. With over 800 trees, the orchard cranks out 6,000–12,000 pounds of peaches and 24,000–40,000 pounds of apples annually. As a result, Morning Glory Orchard gives an up-and-close view of their ten-acre property through field trips, picnic packages, yoga sessions and annual festivals – which are perfect for classes or a fun family outing. 
 
Morning Glory Orchards is a prime example of a family-owned business in Williamson County that relies on our support. Alyson says, “Small businesses across this country are struggling to make ends meet. Make it a point to shop at least one small business weekly. Your business matters to them.” 
 
As small business Saturday is just around the corner, why not start early by making room on your calendar for the Morning Glory Orchard’s 2022 Apple and All Things Fall festival on October 8th, from 10am–5pm. Break out your most festive fall sweaters and head over to experience over fifty vendors with food trucks, face painting, pumpkins, mums and all the homemade apple products your heart could wish for. Parking on-site is $10, or you can enjoy the free shuttles from The Church at Nolensville (7388 Nolensville Road).  
 
Reservations can be made at morninggloryorchard.com.
Not a fan of fruit? Swing by the orchard to try out their gift shop housing everything from baked goods to honey and home décor.