A New Beginning Farm: Faith, Family, and Fresh Starts Fuel a Growing Laurens County Business

A New Beginning Farm may have started with a single act of kindness, but over the past decade it has blossomed into one of Laurens County’s most creative, personalized, and faith-driven event and custom dessert businesses. Owners Michelle and Chris McCord have built a family-centered brand known for its hospitality, attention to detail, and heartfelt mission—one rooted in the belief that every celebration deserves a fresh start and a meaningful touch.

From One Wedding to a Thriving Business

The idea for the business came unexpectedly in 2014, when a friend’s wedding plans fell through at the last minute. With a tent already rented and nowhere to go, the McCords opened their farm and hosted the event. What began as a one-time favor quickly revealed a new calling. Soon after, outdoor weddings became a regular part of life on the farm.

As trends shifted and brides gravitated toward barn venues, the McCords decided to take the “farm charm” experience on the road. They began offering setup, décor, and coordination at venues across the region. What happened next surprised even Michelle.

“I started dabbling in sugar cookies and absolutely hated doing them,” she said with a laugh. “But God had other plans.”

Orders poured in, referrals spread rapidly, and the cookie side of the business took off. Today, A New Beginning Farm offers custom logo cookies, wedding favors, corporate suites, specialty desserts, dessert tables, grazing displays, event coordination, custom guest books, signage, cake toppers, and more. They even invested in a cookie printer and 3D printer to create one-of-a-kind designs, shapes, and branding for clients.

A Family’s Fresh Start Inspires a Name

The name “A New Beginning Farm” reflects the personal journey behind the business. After her divorce, Michelle remarried and she and her husband, Chris, purchased their Laurens County farm through a foreclosure—a symbolic fresh start for them and her three children.

“Everything about this place was a new beginning,” Michelle said. “The home, the family, even the animals we’ve brought here—each of them rescues or rehomes. The name just made sense.”

That spirit of renewal is now woven into everything the business creates.

A Family-Run Operation Rooted in Faith

Bottom from left to right is Michele and Chris
Middle left to right is Matthew, Marissa and Joey(the three children)
Sitting on the branch is Sara and Hannah.

What began with Michelle and her daughter soon grew into a full family endeavor. Sons Joey and Matthew pitched in on décor installations and heavy lifting. Chris brought his technical expertise and creative eye to the business, especially after they purchased their laser equipment for custom wedding pieces.

Today, the team includes daughter-in-law Sara, future daughter-in-law Hannah, and even Sara’s mother, Cindy. The entire family works together until mid-November each year, when the business intentionally pauses so they can volunteer, give back to the community, and enjoy the holiday season.

“Our Christian faith guides everything we do,” Michelle said. “We serve joyfully, honestly, and with gratitude for God’s blessings.”

Services That Stand Out

While custom cookies once dominated demand, this year the business’s all-inclusive event packages have become their most popular offering.

Brides appreciate the streamlined approach—fewer vendors, clear communication, and one team handling setup, décor, coordination, and even vendor management. The consultation process is thorough, often lasting an hour or more to ensure clarity on vision, allergies, themes, and expectations. When a corporate client needs a unique cookie shape, the McCords design and print a custom cutter.

For guests with dietary restrictions, the McCords offer dairy-free, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly options crafted with dedicated equipment and meticulous attention.

Their grazing tables are another standout. Each is designed with varied textures, colors, heights, and fresh florals crafted by Michelle herself.

Taking “A New Beginning” on the Road

A New Beginning Farm travels widely for events—sometimes as far as Saluda or even into Georgia. While they often work at farm and rural venues, their services are equally at home in Greenville-area event spaces.

One of their most charming offerings is “Ms. Essie,” their 1938 Cadillac LaSalle. A beloved antique and head-turning photo backdrop, Ms. Essie is undergoing slow restoration thanks to revenue from her bookings.

Deep Roots in Laurens County

Laurens County has been home to the McCords since 2014, and supporting the local community is central to their mission. Michelle still works three days a week at a salon in Mauldin—having recently sold her own salon after 20 years—while running the family business full-time.

Laurens County, she notes, offers a warmth and personal connection unlike larger cities.

“In Greenville, you can get lost. Here, people know you. They remember your cakes, your cookies, your events,” she said. “We’re not competitors—local bakers and event vendors support each other. I love that about Laurens.”

Michelle is deeply involved in local markets as well, including Fall for Owings and the Laurens City Christmas Market. Every dollar she earns at these events supports the South Carolina Highway Patrol Troop 2 Post A Christmas Party—a decade-long tradition providing a magical night for troopers, their spouses, and their children.

Investing in the Future

The McCords recently purchased a building in downtown Laurens with plans to renovate it into a commercial bakery and catering kitchen. Growing demand has outpaced what they can produce at home and having a brick-and-mortar space will allow for expanded offerings. They currently rent a commercial kitchen but hope to transition into their own space when funding and renovations allow.

Long term, they envision a full retail space—and perhaps one day, their very own venue on the farm.

“We’re always dreaming,” Michelle said. “But we also focus deeply on where God has us right now. New services will come. New opportunities will come. And we will keep moving forward with faith.”

A Business Built on Heart

A New Beginning Farm is more than a business—it’s a story of faith, family, and the power of a fresh start. From custom cookies to full-scale event coordination, Michelle and her family bring heartfelt care and unmatched personalization to every client they serve.

For Laurens County brides, families, and businesses seeking creativity, reliability, and a personal touch, A New Beginning Farm continues to be a beloved and growing part of the community’s celebration landscape. For more information visit their website.