Parker’s Big Meadow Mountain spreads big holiday cheer

With the Christmas season upon us families gather to fill their homes with holiday cheer and good tidings. It is a tradition for many to scout the city in search of a glorious Christmas tree that will complete their holiday decor. However, these consumers are often not aware of the complex history of their beloved tree. Years of nurturing and growing go into every single sapling, making each tree a unique product of its care and origins. For over thirty years, grower Shannon Parker has been in the business of growing trees and runs a small farm by the name of Parker’s Big Meadow Mountain.

“We planted our first Christmas trees in 1979 and have been selling them up and down Falls of Neuse for 38 years,” Parker said. “We always start sales the day after Thanksgiving.”

While the work is rewarding, it is also vigorous. Harvesting Christmas trees is a round-the-clock endeavor that requires great skill and vast knowledge of the trees and their specific needs.

“Trees need cold conditions and dormancy,” says Parker. “The farm is over four hours away in the mountains of Boone. Conditions are cold and trees require altitudes above 3000 feet. Occasionally, we have to drive overnight into the mountains and cut [the trees] with headlamps.”

Despite these obstacles, it is not difficult to encounter the joy of Christmas in the tree industry.

“I can not shake the love I have for the job I do. It is incredibly hard work, but the families that I met make everything worthwhile,” said Parker. “Year after year we have the same families purchase from us and I enjoy being able to contribute to their holiday season.”

Managing partner James Brantley has joined Parker in his business ventures for fourteen years. He has come to understand the impact trees have on people and how having a positive attitude can brighten people’s days.

“Part of being a good employe is being able to make customers feel welcomed and appreciated,” said Brantley. “I love talking to people, and this business is the perfect way to get to know people.”

Parker and Brantley have been known to donate trees to local churches and to help spread their good fortunes in any way they can. They try to captivate the true meaning of the season by giving back to those in need.
“I’m so lucky to be able to help others and experience the holiday season in a unique way,” said Parker. “This season is all about giving so I truly try to spread my good will and fortune to all those in need. Christmas is a time of joy and everyone should be able to experience the happiness that comes along with Christmas trees.”