About Us
Where it All Began…
In 2007, David and Dawn Gray combined their respective love for trees and Christmas into one seemingly crazy idea.
“Why not start a Christmas tree farm?”
When they planted their first field of trees in the beginning of 2007, they had no idea this small start would quickly grow into a thriving family-owned business, and would continue to grow each year.
Now, Wildwood Christmas Tree Farm has been open for business since 2012, offering over 8 varieties of high-quality, non-toxic, and “cide”-free Christmas Trees for you to enjoy each year. Driven by a desire to use the natural elements and gifts that God has given us, the farm does not use any pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, or colorants on their trees. This ensures that no harmful chemicals are being added into your home, and allows the farm to expand into arenas like Beekeeping without the risk of those same chemicals incorporating into your farm-raised honey, beeswax, and more. (Coming soon!)
As the years go on, the farm has now expanded into offering events, classes, field trips, photography, retreats, and more every month. The picturesque scenery of Tennessee’s mountains, the lush green of evergreen trees, and the experiences offered are greater than can be had in just one season each year.
The Mission at Wildwood is simple. “We want to bring people together and create cherished memories. Whether that be between friends, families, or strangers, at Christmastime, or any other season. In everything we do, we strive to serve the Lord. We love honoring Jesus’ Birthday during the Christmas Season and providing unique opportunities and memorable experiences in a fun, wholesome, family-oriented atmosphere. We hope to bring a touch of joy, peace, and light into your life when you visit our farm.”
Meet The FAMILY
David & Dawn Gray
Owners, managers, and structure of Wildwood. They’re always working to improve the business, and plan carefully to make it all a success!
David grew up in New Mexico and remembers (not fondly) that there were no trees there. This sparked his love for trees of all types when he moved here. You can find him somewhere on the farm, always working with his hands.
Dawn has loved Christmas (and the color of Christmas lights in particular) all of her life. You’ll meet her in the Gift Shop, in the fields, or on her way from one place to the other! She works tirelessly to manage the admin-side of the business, along with the website, booking systems, and more.
Orval & Esther Gray
Continual supporters of Wildwood, and parents of David and Jeana. Always ready to help if they can!
You’ll find Orval on the farm running our Hayrides with his tractor, and he probably has some wisdom about the farm to give you if you ask. Everyone knows him as Poppie, and when he’s not on the tractor or a lawnmower, you’ll find him cuttin’ strings and socializing with folks.
Meet Esther up in our craft room. She makes sure everyone has a good time and has everything they need to create something beautiful, with help from Jeana. Once you settle into your craft, she’ll make her way to the rocking chair, and she’s ready to chat if you’d like to!
Randy & Jeana Lewis
Motivators, movers, and shakers of Wildwood. They’ve recently become involved, working alongside the rest of the family on the farm, and we don’t know how we ever did it without them!
You’ll see Randy working hard at any task given to him. Hauling trees, minor electrical work, construction work, and all the other bits needed to keep the farm running. He may seem standoffish, but don’t let him fool you – he would love to meet you!
Jeana makes it fun, and her laughter is contagious. She makes all of the elderberry goodies and more found in our gift shop, and is continually working on new ideas. You’ll find her up in the craft room, probably working on a new project.
Hannah, Caleb, & Judah Gray
As David & Dawn’s kids, these three have grown up with an enthusiasm for Christmas, and are constantly working to get things done.
Caleb and Judah can be found all over the farm, but you will probably meet them as they work with you on your chosen Christmas Tree, whether outside the Gift Shop or in the fields. You’ll likely see Caleb in his signature “Not David” Hoodie as he works, and find Judah in motion on his way from one tree to the next.
You’ll meet Hannah in the Gift Shop, behind the counter serving drinks & snacks and running checkout, or reorganizing a section of the Gift Shop, or making changes to the website. She is also our resident donut-maker!
Don Minchew
Our bookkeeping & accounting expert, and dad of Dawn and Lora-Joy. He’s always ready for a last-minute run to the store for anything we need, and without him, tax season would be an absolute nightmare.
You can find him on the farm for Thanksgiving weekend, where he’ll be in the Gift Shop handing out fresh hot chocolate or southern-style sweet tea, or outside in the trees. If you ever have any questions about who is related to who, and how, he’s the one to ask!
LoraJoy & Andy Adzima
Joining us for each season during Thanksgiving weekend, these two are here to help make it happen!
You’ll see LoraJoy tirelessly making batch after batch of buttery popcorn, or you may meet her outside taking photos. Whether of people, scenery, or the current action, she is an amazing photographer and you can ask for her help to get a quick family photo!
Meet Andy outside as he moves your chosen tree, or on the way to and from the tree fields. Come prepared with your best dad jokes, and ask him about his recent favorites!
Meet The CREW
Our team of guys is here to help! Cut, tie, spin, trim, haul, or whatever else needs to be done to your tree, all you have to do is ask! Just look for anyone in a Red Hat!
REGISTRATION TEAM
Our girls at the registration desk are here to help! Turner is our registration lead, and whether she’s working alone or with Kirsten, Aubrey, or Briley, this team is here to get you checked in. Whether you’ve visited the farm before or not, they can answer your questions and get you started looking for your Tree. And if they can’t help, they know someone who can!
WREATH-MAKING & DECORATING TEAM
Jasmine & Julianna are the main part of our amazing team of wreath makers and decorators. The majority of the wreaths found on the farm are cut, trimmed, made, and decorated by them by hand! You may not see them here on the weekends, as they prefer to make their beautiful creations when it’s calmer and quieter during the week.
Meet our childcare team
Jeana & Randy Lewis
Jeana has many years of childcare experience, as she has owned and operated a state-licensed, in-home childcare center for 6+ years.
Both she and her husband, Randy, have current background checks as required by the state. Both are certified in adult, child, and infant first aid, and CPR, and have been trained in the use of an AED.
Turner Russell
Turner has worked in children’s ministry at multiple Christian camps and Churches for over 13 years, and is the current Children’s Ministry Director at Freedom Church in Gallatin TN.
She has her BA in Pastoral Ministry from Trevecca Nazarene University and is working to get her Masters in Theology and Biblical Studies.
David & Dawn Gray
David and Dawn have volunteered in children’s ministry through various churches for over 30 years, and Dawn’s expertise is supported by her BS in Education. She currently co-leads the Children’s ministry at Eastgate CCF. Together, they own and operate Wildwood Christmas Tree Farm and have raised 5 children of their own (3 of whom still live at home).