The Inspiring Journey of Four Acre Farm: A Family’s Commitment to Sustainable Living
“It’s been an amazing journey,” reflects Aaron Zellmer, a proud resident of Hugo, Minnesota. This December marks a significant milestone—the five-year anniversary of the Zellmer family operating Four Acre Farm, a lifestyle farm deeply rooted in family values and sustainability.
A Unique Origin Story
Aaron’s life began in the tropical paradise of Hawaii, yet his childhood was marked by frequent relocations due to his military family background. After graduating from Fridley High School, he enlisted in the Air Force, dedicating four years to national service. Following his military stint, he returned to Minnesota, settling in Lino Lakes, where he fatefully met Kelly, the love of his life.
Kelly’s upbringing in nearby Hugo on a family farm imbued her with a yearning to return to her agricultural roots. As they began their own family, she expressed a desire for their children to experience the charm and lessons of farm life, a wish that drove their decision-making in the years to come.
From Dreams to Reality
While living in Brooklyn Park, the Zellmers often visited and assisted at Kelly’s family farm. Their children actively participated in selling harvested produce from a stand right in their driveway, planting the seeds of entrepreneurship early in their lives.
During a drive through Hugo, the couple spotted a picturesque home that wasn’t for sale. Inspired, Aaron and Kelly penned a heartfelt letter to the homeowners, elaborating on their vision for the property, which ultimately blossomed into the establishment of Four Acre Farm—a name honoring their four children: Lillias, Theodore, Genevieve, and Wendell. They were determined to create a unique living experience for their family, one that would educate and enrich their children’s lives.
Crafting a Lifestyle
Aaron describes Four Acre Farm as a “lifestyle” farm—more than just a place of work, it embodies a philosophy. “It’s not a hobby or a job; it’s a mindset,” he explains. The couple’s commitment to promoting healthy, chemical-free products reflects their desire to challenge the convenience-driven mindset prevalent in modern society.
Their farm produces raw honey, pasteurized eggs, poultry, and seasonal produce—all with a strong emphasis on sustainability. For Aaron, beekeeping is a passion; he emphasizes the critical role pollinators play in our food system, stating that pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we consume.
Navigating Challenges
Starting with three bee colonies, the Zellmers saw growth to 20 hives; however, like many beekeepers nationwide, they faced significant losses in the winter of 2024-2025. Currently, they have rebounded to five colonies, with aspirations of expanding to 100 hives. The Zellmers also benefit from access to over 200 acres of land on Kelly’s family farm, as well as a farm from Aaron’s family in Staples, Minnesota, allowing for a broader range of agricultural possibilities.
Balancing Work and Family Life
Aaron juggles his time as an accountant by day, with the physical demands of farm life in the mornings, evenings, and weekends. This dual role offers him a fulfilling balance. He appreciates the variety in his daily routine, noting that his office job sometimes serves as a refreshing break from the rigorous labor of farming.
Moreover, the couple has taken a proactive approach to education—not just for their children but for the broader community. They host Junior Beekeeper events, providing homeschooling opportunities that teach kids essential skills, hard work, and the rewards of their labor.
Looking Ahead
The Zellmers have ambitious plans for the future of Four Acre Farm. Aaron envisions increasing the farm’s presence at community events, aiming for participation in local markets like Marketfest. Ultimately, they hope their children will inherit the operations and principles of the farm, allowing it to grow even further.
The couple’s long-term goal is clear: to establish a thriving farm that their kids can take over, fostering a legacy of dedication, sustainability, and community engagement. Through their efforts, they demonstrate that a lifestyle farm is not just about the products grown but about cultivating a nurturing environment for future generations.
