Content Committee
Meet the faces behind FredCo Homesteaders
From capturing breathtaking hillside sunsets, cultivating hospitable aesthetics, and drawing out the stories of generations past our content committee is passionate about sharing every facet of life in our beloved homestead community.
Founder
Sam Armel
Sam is a longtime resident of Frederick County. As a wife and mother, she is passionate about connecting local families with farms and businesses throughout the Valley to provide alternative, healthy food options for all.
Sam serves the local homesteading community as a Realtor and resource for all things local. When she is not collaborating with others on her next project, she enjoys baking, cooking, and homemaking.
Carter Hall Farm
Megan Craggs
Megan always cherished her childhood visits to Frederick County, where she fell in love with the area while spending time on her aunt and uncle’s historic farm.
In 2019, when her family purchased that farm, she was thrilled to move here with her husband and their growing family. Since then, Megan has enjoyed visiting the many farm markets and local restaurants, while also working as the marketing manager for her family’s farm.
Five Roots Farm
Kristin Tesdall
Kristin is a lifelong resident of Frederick County. She homeschools and homesteads with her husband, David, and their three children on their five-acre property on the west side of Winchester.
As a family, they breed heritage poultry, milk dairy sheep, and craft homemade goods with organic ingredients. Kristin enjoys cuddling sheep, reading good books, and writing some of her own. Her debut children’s novel is set for publication this fall.
Valley Mill Bakehouse
Nicole Russell
Nicole is a homemaker and homeschool mom of four. Before moving to Frederick County 14 years ago, she worked in speechwriting, political communications, and as an editor for the federal government.
She enjoys baking, reading, and exploring Virginia’s natural wonders and historic landmarks with her husband and children.
Black Valley Creative
Katherine Manley
Black Valley Creative’s main goal is to promote Small Business, collaboration, and community. Through experienced photography, a strong knowledge and understanding of the local economy, and a vibrant online presence, BVC has curated a space where you can come to plan your next adventure, or gain insight into finding your truest self.
There is no exact equation to our madness - it comes down to celebrating the stories behind brands, honoring the history and beauty of our Valley, and discovering the magic in the mundane.
Grace Photography
Cris Means
With nearly a decade of experience behind the lens, Cris is the heart & soul behind Grace Photography VA, LLC, specializing in capturing the love, laughter, and milestones that define family life. With a passion for storytelling through photography, she creates timeless family portraits that reflect the unique bond between loved ones.
Cris’ natural, candid approach brings out the true essence of each family, ensuring every session is a fun, relaxed, and memorable experience. Family, adventure, and simple joys are what inspire her both in life and in photography