Jody and Lauren were high school sweethearts before going off to college. Jody pursued a degree in Agriculture from North Carolina State University, while Lauren received her BA in Early Childhood Education from UNC-Wilmington. They reconnected after college, married, and joined the family farm. Jody and Lauren Clemmons are the owners of Heritage Fresh Market, but they definitely aren’t doing it alone. Jody learned most of what he knows about farming from his father, Waddell, and applies that knowledge to today’s farm. Jody's son Cole, following in his father's footsteps, recently graduated from NC State University with – you guessed it – an Ag degree. He’s now working side-by-side with his dad. Lauren manages the market end of the business, along with her daughter, Katie, the out-front face in the market, who prides herself on greeting every customer that comes through the market’s door. And, Jody’s mom, Judy, can often be found helping out in the market during the busy season. Jody and Lauren’s youngest, Cori Lee, just entered high school. When she’s not in school, you’ll often see her smiling face at the market as well.

The Clemmons family farmed row crops for four generations before expanding their operation to include produce in 2019.  The 1,500 acre farm is located in the heart of Brunswick County. Over the last 20 years, rapidly changing demographics have caused a large influx of new county residents and a huge growth in tourism. Jody and Lauren saw a demand they could meet and began their journey in produce farming in the fall of 2019. They planted their first strawberry crop in November of that year, at their original produce stand that sits about a mile away from the current market location at the corner of Route 17 and Sellers Road.

Forty years ago, patriarch Waddell Clemmons built several sheds and a tobacco barn at the corner where our market now sits. As Jody grew the farm operation, more space was needed.  Judy’s cousins and Jody designed the floor plan and constructed the current market building.  The centerpiece of the building is the counter in the middle of the market, where we greet each customer as they enter. The counter is made of reclaimed black walnut that was taken from the old barns and the tin along the side of the counter came from one of the tobacco barns Waddell built.  The walls of the market are a beautiful white pine, and cypress is the crowning touch used on our wide exterior porch, where customers can enjoy our outdoor and seasonal plant inventory.

Many very talented people work alongside the Clemmons family to bring fresh produce and flowers from their farm to your home. The team is comprised of multiple crew members that have been with the Clemmons for almost a decade and served as an integral part of their transition from tobacco to produce and greenhouse production. From the field to the farm stand, each individual that works here is truly family. The Clemmons are deeply grateful for their committed, hardworking team that makes Heritage Fresh Market possible.