Today we’d like to introduce you to James Gray and Jacob Hagan
Hi James & Jacob, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
We bought the Farrand property with the intention of it being a quiet country getaway from our busy city lives in Chicago. But quickly our unique personal experiences in hospitality and art would encourage us to consider a much bigger view of the property.
Jacob studied art and information science and is the real creative brain behind the project. He brings a unique perspective to design and its relation to how we live. He has a real interest in how old things tell stories and bring life to our modern lives. I (James) worked in operations and business development for food companies and is the CEO of his own consulting firm. My business acumen and experience in the Midwest food scene made bringing chefs out for unique dining experiences a natural transition.
Together, We’ve slowly built the Farrand Hall brand and are now fully invested in building a company around food, lifestyle, country living, and gathering. We believe none of this would be happening without the support of a team of amazing and generous people believing in Farrand Hall as much as we do.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are always obstacles, but we made a calculated decision early on to take things slow so we weren’t overwhelmed. The biggest obstacle is always not having enough money to do the things you want when you want them. The estate was a blank canvas so the ideas were always flowing. Especially with the landscaping and gardens we wanted. It’s a slow process and it can be easy to be underwhelmed with the outcome. But we just kept reminding ourselves that it’s the long game with this property.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Situated on a historic 12-acre estate in south Michigan, Farrand Hall celebrates preservation, local farm-to-table food and community. Not a restaurant, Farrand Hall is a dining experience – hosting events for guests to gather and connect at one long communal table. Spotlighting some of the top chefs in the Midwest and beyond, the Guest Chef Series invites culinary artists to cook, collaborate and celebrate the best of Michigan’s seasonal bounty. The heart of Farrand Hall is bringing people together and enjoying real human connection over food.
What sets us apart is that Farrand Hall invites guests to dine differently. “We’re not a traditional restaurant, in fact, we are not a restaurant at all,” says James. “We offer one menu, and everyone eats together – it’s like one big dinner party at our house.” Focusing on Modern Homestead Cooking – think open fire, fermentation and pickling. Paying homage to the history of the property and how people cooked in the mid to late 1800’s, while elevating and modernizing it.
Now, six years later, the property is transitioning to a private dining location, where some of the Midwest’s top chefs come to cook. “Working in the hospitality industry for years, I’ve been connected with so many chefs & restaurants,” says James. “I thought, why not invite them for a different experience – so that’s what we did and created the Guest Chef Series – I’m so proud of this!” Every Saturday through May – October, Farrand Hall hosts a different award-winning chef from the Midwest and select cities throughout the country. From James Beard nominated & awarded to Michelin-starred, guests can experience some of the top talent from the Midwest region.
This year, we opened Farrand Hall Bakery and Farrand Hall Market + Workshop in downtown Colon. The two storefronts are located kitty-corner from one another, offering a unique blend of baked goods, gourmet treats, and locally sourced products, all crafted with the signature attention to quality and detail that has made Farrand Hall a beloved name in Colon. We’re really excited to offer more experiences to the residents in Colon and create a sense of community!
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson learned is to enjoy the work. We’re really lucky to do what we do because we get to meet and work with so many really talented and wonderful people. That always takes precedence.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.farrandhall.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farrandhall1854/
