By Leslie Pearce
It was a hot and humid day, but at Howard Family Holiday Farm, in Moody, that didn’t seem to matter. The shelves were lined with jams and jellies, fresh produce, and plants grown locally. Even better, the atmosphere was welcoming and stepping into the general store filled with ice cream and Howard’s memorabilia felt like a sort of homecoming.
It’s obvious upon arrival that a family-friendly and community-driven approach is David Howard’s main goal. “I wanted to give back to the foundation that made me.” he said. “I enjoy loving on my community.”
Howard grew up in Moody, Alabama, where his entrepreneurial spirit was cultivated by his community. He told his grandmother that he intended to sell Christmas trees and own his very own Christmas tree farm. This childhood dream would first be cultivated at an early age. Howard collected trees from a Christmas tree farm in Pell City, then sell them at the gas station in Moody that is now CVS.
When asked about his greatest inspiration, Mr. Howard spoke of his personal experience and vision. He called the Holiday Farm a “full circle moment”, recalling his childhood days as a young entrepreneur. It was his childhood that inspired the idea of Santa Claus riding to the property in a helicopter for the kids in the area during the Christmas season. He recalled the excitement he felt when he watched Santa Claus parachute into a parking lot and wanted to pass on that same excitement and childhood wonder to the next generation. He teased, “I get more from it than the kids!”
Every decision made at Howard Family Holiday Farm is a decision made with the community in mind. From raw milk to locally-sourced meats, there is no doubt that Howard’s has become a popular local hotspot due to the quality of their goods. It’s no wonder the business has become a local favorite. Their success is no accident, and was developed through the mindset of perseverance. When asked about how he pushed through the doubt and potential failure, his answer was simple, “You can be a victim or a victor. I’ve just chosen to be a victor.”
This fall, there are plenty more fruits, vegetables, and other delicious goods and fun planned for the entire family. The fall festival is scheduled to begin on Sept. 26 and runs throughout the entire month of October. Saturday, Nov. 14 is the beginning of the Christmas festivities, and on Nov. 22, Santa flies in for ice cream Sunday with the kids. Jams, jellies, and homemade soups are also available for holiday parties and family reunions. The Howard family can’t wait to see you this holiday season.
