Meet Dede Beck

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Dede Beck.

Hi Dede, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story is 29 years in the making. Shortly after I was married, I joined my husband’s family business. Some people think I am crazy, but it made sense then.

Our business is Uncle John’s Cider Mill. I currently own the business with my husband Mike and brother-in-law John. We are 5th generation farmers and 2nd generation “farm marketers,” we started our hard cider business 21 years ago.

Uncle John’s Cider Mill started in 1972. My in-laws were pioneers in the direct farm marketing movement. We worked together with them for several years before deciding to buy the business. This has been a great opportunity for us, as we had a great model to start with but the flexibility to put our twist on the business.

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?
No way! Is there ever a smooth road? Shortly after we made the decision to buy the business, the economy went through a recession, and then in 2013, we lost 100% of our crop. Then COVID – we all have our Covid stories. I feel all of these events have forced us to be resilient and think beyond the apple.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Uncle John’s is a seasonal farm, farm market, entertainment farm, gift shop, bakery, and taproom. We have been around for over 50 years, and everyone seems to have an “Uncle John’s” memory or story.

We specialize in cider & donuts, hard cider, and, of course, our pumpkin patch!

I think one of the things that set us aside is our passion for our craft. We only use the best ingredients and focus on freshness. We have created an all-inclusive, friendly atmosphere, which brings joy whenever I have time to sit and take it all in.

One of the things I am most proud of is our brand “Uncle John’s Hard Cider”. We started the hard cider brand in 2003 and are the second oldest cider in Michigan.

What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Patience. By nature, I like to control things. When you are a farmer and own a seasonal business, you cannot control anything. Learning to trust the process has been my biggest challenge.

Contact Info:

• Website: ujcidermill.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unclejohns_cidermill/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UJCiderMill