As I pulled into First Fruits Farm, I couldn’t help but notice how beautiful it was. Wildflowers were blooming along the drive, and row after row of blueberry bushes stretched across the property. It felt like stepping into another world. Standing there, looking across the neatly kept rows, I found myself thinking of the vineyards you see in photos from places like Italy rather than a farm tucked away in rural Mississippi.
Located in Pike County, First Fruits Farm is owned by Jason and Alma Dripps, who purchased the property in 2015. While the farm was already established when they bought it, complete with thousands of blueberry bushes and the equipment needed to operate it, taking ownership was still a major leap of faith.
Neither Jason nor Alma came from a farming background.
Jason’s grandparents farmed rice and citrus, but his own experience was mostly limited to spending summers visiting the farm. Alma laughs when talking about her qualifications.
“Me? No farm experience,” she said.
Despite their lack of experience, the couple felt led to purchase the property after much prayer and consideration. Owning the farm meant learning as they went, taking on challenges they had never faced before, and gradually growing into a way of life that was entirely new to them.
Today, First Fruits Farm is home to approximately 14,000 blueberry bushes and 800 blackberry bushes. Visitors will also find peaches, figs, persimmons, and other seasonal fruits growing throughout the property. During harvest season, guests can spend time picking fresh berries straight from the field while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
The farm also serves commercial customers, supplying fresh fruit beyond the boundaries of Pike County.
For Alma, however, the farm has always been about more than agriculture.
Over the years, First Fruits Farm has become a gathering place for church groups, community events, and fellowship. Alma views the farm as an opportunity to share her faith and create an environment where people feel welcomed, encouraged, and cared for.
That spirit of hospitality extends beyond the berry fields.
The farm is also home to a one-bedroom Airbnb that offers visitors a chance to unplug and slow down. There is no television and no Wi-Fi, just the quiet beauty of the countryside and the opportunity to step away from the constant distractions of everyday life. Whether enjoying a cup of coffee on the porch or taking in the peaceful views of the farm, guests are encouraged to simply be present.
During my visit, I overheard Jason and Alma talking about some of the challenges that come with farming. At one point, the conversation turned to difficult seasons and years that hadn’t gone as planned. Alma laughed and mentioned that Jason’s response is usually simple: “There’s always next year.”
Looking across First Fruits Farm today, it’s easy to see that mindset reflected in the rows of blueberry bushes, the fruit trees, and the visitors who return year after year. What began as a leap into something unfamiliar has grown into a place that welcomes people from all walks of life and reminds them to slow down, enjoy the season they’re in, and appreciate the simple things.
*All photos are courtesy of First Fruits Farm
