About Us
Cardinal Valley Farm grew out of Thomas’ lifelong passions for woodworking, gardening, tinkering, and problem-solving. From a young kid trying to build a treehouse, to high school shop class, to working as a mechanic and machinist (in addition to his main job in sport and healthcare).
After returning to Nova Scotia in 2020, Thomas started helping family and friends around their homes. Thomas moved in with Rilla soon after, and together they tackled many house projects, from backyard landscaping and gardening to office renovations and a full kitchen gut. Having the dedicated space for a workshop helped with these projects and it quickly grew to a full shop. This led to Thomas taking requests for making everything from cutting boards to furniture to sports memorabilia displays. Cardinal Valley Farm was born!
You might be wondering where the “Farm” comes from since this story has largely focused on woodworking. Ever since Thomas and Rilla met they have shared a common dream of owning land in the Annapolis Valley for a small farm. A vegetable patch, peach and stone fruit orchards with chickens, sheep and goats. Until that dream is met they will continue their small “urban farm” of vegetables and herbs, while training our little herder, Lainey the border collie.
To learn more about the farm, our woodworking, or if you want to contact us - follow the links below!
Our Logo
The goal of the name and logo is to bring meaningful aspects together into one cohesive scene.
The first was to capture the beauty of home: Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley. The rolling mountains, tall mud-clad cliffs, vibrant green fields, and the many bodies of water. A landscape that inspires memories of past, present and future.
The cardinal is a prominent bird in Nova Scotia that can be found throughout the province. We are lucky enough to have a nest nearby and to hear their songs daily.
The peach tree and the peaches – a favourite snack. They also represent our future dream of owning a farm.
At Cardinal Valley Farms, we value sustainability and caring for the environment. We are pleased to share that we have joined the 1% for the Planet initiative. This means we will donate at least 1% of our revenue to certified nonprofits. Our customers can feel good knowing that part of each purchase supports a worthy cause.
About 1% for the Planet
1% for the Planet is a global organization that exists to ensure our planet and future generations thrive. We act as an accountability partner for businesses supporting environmental partners through annual membership. We make environmental giving easy and effective through partnership advising, impact storytelling, and third-party certification.
Started in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, our members have given millions to environmental partners. Today, 1% for the Planet’s global network consists of thousands of businesses and environmental partners working toward a better future.
Look for our logo to purchase for the planet, learn more, and join at onepercentfortheplanet.org.