Kededra Holmes is first-generation farmer, U.S. veteran, serial entrepreneur and the founder of Lovely Hen LLC, a family-run farm in Southampton, NJ that specializes in exotic breeds of chickens, makes custom chicken coops, and designs luxury homesteading set-ups including tree-planting, gardening and organic living landscapes.

Like many fellow business owners, the pandemic hit during the start-up of her business, but she continued to move the business forward. Holmes also invested her time in LAEDA’s Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) in Fall 2020, which she will be graduating from this Fall.

The LAEDA Women’s Business Center Assistant Program Manager, Sophie Werner has been working with Holmes since she began the EDTP program last year. Werner had the opportunity to visit the Lovely Hen location in Burlington county, work with Holmes on her business plan and, of course, purchase a dozen farm-fresh eggs.

Lovely Hen sells backyard chicken coop packages, including a custom-made chicken coop, four laying hens and the option to add on a fruit tree of choice. Families can select cherry, peach, apple, or pear.

Chickens and gardening go hand-in-hand, explained Holmes. Her expansive vegetable garden includes Yukon gold and baby red potatoes, cucumbers, a long list of peppers, cabbage, carrots, kale, string beans, various types tomatoes, Swiss chard and beets.

“Chickens eliminate bugs out of your garden and in turn you get a better crop, more fruit and it helps to feed your family. The chicken waste can be composted and reused in your garden as a natural fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, which helps grow bigger blooms.”

As for families considering to start their own backyard chicken flock, Holmes encourages them to go for it. “If you can’t commit to a dog or cat, a chicken would be perfect because they are very easy – just feed and water. Families are welcome to come out for a fun day of picking out their very own backyard chicken flock.

“I think having chickens brings families closer, it’s a great experience together to see life and to have responsibility. It teaches kids life skills they will need. Then, it’s rewarding because you get fresh eggs and can feed your family in the morning.”

To get more information or schedule a visit to Lovely Hen, visit Facebook, Instagram, or call 717-559-5705. Lovely Hen will be open to the general public until the end of September, and pre-orders can be made from October to March.