Farm Journal

Stories From the Farm

Highland cow guides, wedding planning, corporate retreats, and life in the foothills of the Smokies — 107 stories and counting.

The pond-side dock reaching out over the two-acre catfish lake at Cedar Pond Farms

Fishing the Catfish Pond on a Tennessee Farm Stay

A two-acre lake sits at the center of Cedar Pond Farms, stocked with catfish. No license required, rods and tackle rentable on the farm, and two…

The white beehive at Cedar Pond Farms standing in the grass at the wood line, past the white pasture fence

Honey From Our Own Hive: Raw East Tennessee Farm Honey

The beehive at Cedar Pond Farms sits at the wood line past the white fence. Here is what the bees work, when the honey comes off, and why a working…

A guest brushing the shaggy red coat of a Scottish Highland cow at Cedar Pond Farms in New Market, Tennessee

Highland Cow Petting: Where to Pet a Highland Cow (and What It’s Really Like)

Looking for Highland cow petting near you? Here is what petting a Scottish Highland cow is actually like, why a working farm beats a petting zoo, and…

Golden-hour view across the pastures and pond at Cedar Pond Farms, with barns along the fence line

Why Location Scouts Choose Working Farms Over Backlots

Location scouts are trading backlots for working farms — real animals, real weathering, real food, and one address that carries a whole call sheet.…

Scottish Highland cows at the pasture fence at Cedar Pond Farms

Can You Pet the Cows on a Farm Stay? An Honest Answer (and a Fence Warning)

Staying overnight at Cedar Pond Farms? You can absolutely visit our Scottish Highland cows at the pasture fence, and buy a bucket of feed to call…

Fluffy Highland cows at Cedar Pond Farms

Connecting IRL: Why Real-Life Moments Matter More Than the Screen

IRL means In Real Life — and it's the whole point of Cedar Pond Farms. Real moments with fluffy Highland cows, farm stays, weddings and farm events…

Bride hugging a Scottish Highland cow at Cedar Pond Farms

Highland Cow Wedding Photos: How It Works

How to get Highland cow wedding photos in Tennessee — what a cow photo session looks like, what to wear, when the cows are fluffiest, and how to book…

The fluffy herd at Cedar Pond Farms

Welcome to the New CedarPondFarms.com — Faster, Bilingual, and Built Around You

Our new website is live: lightning fast, fully in English and Spanish, with automatic photo delivery after your visit and the same transparent…

A king suite in the Cedar Pond Farms barndominium, set up for a couples weekend getaway near Knoxville, Tennessee.

Best Weekend Getaways Near Knoxville for Couples

Sometimes the best kind of getaway isn’t packed with crowded attractions or busy tourist schedules. More couples today are searching for peaceful…

A modern farmhouse with white siding and black trim sits on a grassy hillside surrounded by bare trees.

Unique Bachelorette Party Ideas That Aren’t Nashville Bars

If your idea of a perfect weekend involves something other than matching cowboy hats, crowded honky-tonks, and fighting for a spot at a noisy bar…

Modern loft interior with spiral staircase, black furniture, wooden dining table, and wedding photo on wall.

Barndominium Weddings: Why Couples Are Choosing Farm Stays Over Hotels

The traditional wedding timeline goes like this: your guests check into a cookie-cutter hotel, drive to a venue, head back to the hotel, and barely…

A modern white barn with black X-pattern doors and windows sits on a grassy field with visitors walking toward it.

How to Plan a Destination Wedding in the Smoky Mountains Without the Tourist Crowds

The Great Smoky Mountains are America’s most visited national park, making them an incredibly popular choice for a destination wedding. However,…

A cream-colored cow stands in a grassy pasture with trees and white fencing in the background.

What Are Fluffy Cows? Everything You Need to Know About Scottish Highlands

If you’ve ever searched “What are fluffy cows?” online, you’re definitely not alone. Scottish Highland cows have exploded in popularity thanks…

Outdoor wedding reception setup with purple-draped tables, white chairs, and floral arrangements on a brick patio beside a white barn.

Intimate Wedding Venues Near Knoxville for 50 Guests or Less

The trend toward micro weddings and intimate gatherings is here to stay. Couples are realizing that trimming the guest list allows them to invest…

A family of five poses with a brown Highland cow in front of a white wooden structure on a grassy farm.

Best Animal Experiences Near Gatlinburg for Kids and Families

Looking for family-friendly activities near Gatlinburg? Discover one of the best animal experiences in Tennessee at Cedar Pond Farms. Planning a…

A pastoral waterfront scene with a wooden dock, green pasture, and tree-lined hillside under blue sky.

Unique Photo Shoot Locations in East Tennessee: Cows, Barns, and Golden Hour

Searching for the best photo shoot locations in East Tennessee? Discover beautiful barns, Highland cows, and golden hour scenery at Cedar Pond…

A woman in an orange shirt crouches beside a brown Highland cow wearing a halter in a farm setting.

Scottish Highland Cow Therapy: Why Spending Time with Cows Reduces Stress

Discover how spending time with Scottish Highland cows can reduce stress, improve mental wellness, and create peaceful moments at Cedar Pond Farms…

A brown Highland cow grazes while a tan kid stands nearby in a sunny pasture with trees.

Where to Pet Fluffy Cows in Tennessee: A Guide to Highland Cow Encounters

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram lately, chances are you’ve seen the internet-famous fluffy cows with long horns and adorable…

A bride and groom stand on a white dock overlooking a calm river with a white farmhouse and trees in the background.

Farm Wedding Checklist: What to Know Before Booking a Rustic Venue

There is nothing quite like the magic of an East Tennessee farm wedding. Wide-open fields, historic timber frame barns, and breathtaking sunsets…

A group of people on a fishing boat hold up large catfish they've caught.

Executive Retreats in TN: Luxury Team Experiences & Corporate Getaways

Looking for unforgettable Executive Retreats in TN that go beyond traditional corporate meetings? At Cedar Pond Farms , companies can create…

Three historic buildings sit on a grassy hillside surrounded by bare trees on a clear day.

How Cedar Pond Farms Gives Your Team a Better Place to Meet | Corporate Retreat Venue in Tennessee

Finding the right place for your team to meet can completely change the outcome of a corporate gathering. Instead of stressful boardrooms, tight…

The white barn at Cedar Pond Farms with round tables and white chairs set out front for an all-inclusive retreat.

Corporate Retreat Venue in Tennessee I All-Inclusive Team Retreats at Cedar Pond Farms

Looking for the perfect corporate retreat venue for your next company getaway? More businesses are now choosing all-inclusive team retreats…

An aerial view of the Cedar Pond Farms barn with banquet tables set on the patio for a company retreat.

Corporate Retreats in Tennessee

Unique Team-Building Events at Cedar Pond Farms Looking for a unique venue for your next corporate retreat, company outing, or team-building…

Cocktail tables dressed with spring flowers along the covered porch at Cedar Pond Farms, string lights overhead and the fields beyond.

Top Romantic Things for Couples to Do in the Sevierville Area

(Smoky Mountains Getaway Guide) If you’re planning a couples’ trip to the Smoky Mountains, Sevierville, Tennessee is one of the most…

An aerial view of Cedar Pond Farms — the pond, the pastures and the white barns — the Tennessee countryside a hot air balloon rises over at sunrise.

The Ultimate Hot Air Balloon Ride in Tennessee

A Weekend at Cedar Pond Farms If you are searching for the most breathtaking hot air balloon ride in TN , why settle for just a flight when…

The open kitchen and breakfast bar of a Cedar Pond Farms barndominium farm stay, set for four.

Weekend Farm Getaway at Cedar Pond Farms: Hot Air Balloon Ride, Cow Experience & Cozy Overnight Stay

Escape to Nature: The Ultimate 2-Night Farm Experience at Cedar Pond Farms If you’re searching for a peaceful yet unforgettable weekend…

A bride and groom stand together in an open pasture at Cedar Pond Farms, her veil catching the wind.

Farm Wedding Venue in Tennessee

Why Cedar Pond Farms Is a Top Choice for Couples. Couples Share Their Cedar Pond Farms Experience. If you’re dreaming of a romantic,…

A shaggy Scottish Highland cow with long horns stands in the winter pasture at Cedar Pond Farms near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Fluffy Cows in Pigeon Forge: Where to See Highland Cattle & Why Everyone Loves Them

The Magical Highland Cow Experience at Cedar Pond Farms If you’re searching for fluffy cows in Pigeon Forge , you’re probably already…

A bride in a long veil sits on the dock over the pond at Cedar Pond Farms, framed by a willow tree.

Choosing a Farm as a Wedding Venue

Why a Farm Wedding Experience Is So Worth It Thinking about choosing a farm as your wedding venue? Discover the benefits of rustic farm…

Highland Cow Therapy Benefits

Why These Gentle Giants Improve Mental Health & Stress Relief Discover the benefits of Highland cow therapy for stress relief and mental…

Feed Highland Cows in the Smoky Mountains + Cedar Pond Farms Overnight Stay Experience

Looking to feed Highland cows in the Smoky Mountains? Visit Cedar Pond Farms for an interactive farm experience and overnight stay getaway. Enjoy…

How Smart is a Highland Cow? The Brainy Fluff You Didn’t Expect

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1HU5YbGhrU Video credit: Cedar Pond Farms Facebook Highland cows may look like gentle, shaggy giants who…

A woman in a red plaid shirt hugs a brown Highland cow in a rural farm pen.

Hugging a Highland Cow — Real Moments from Cedar Pond Farms

Yes… you can come close enough to almost hug one — and their Facebook photos prove it! 🐮✨ Photo credit: Cedar Pond Farms…

A brown Highland cow with a yellow ear tag stands in a wooded forest setting with fallen leaves.

The Life Journey of a Highland Cow: From Calf to Iconic Shaggy Legend

Dive into the life stages of Scottish Highland cows. Discover how these charming animals grow and thrive in their…

Where to See Highland Cows Near Me | Cedar Pond Farms Highland Cow Experience 2026

Looking for where to see Highland cows near you? Visit Cedar Pond Farms for a hands-on Highland cow experience. Learn what to expect, what to do,…

A herd of Highland cattle with long horns grazing on a rolling green hillside pasture.

Why Highland Cows Became Wildly Popular — with a Spotlight on Cedar Pond Farms

From rugged Scottish hills to social‑media fame and even scenic wedding backdrops, Highland cows have shifted from niche livestock to beloved…

A pastoral farm landscape featuring a pond with reflections, white-roofed barn, tree-lined pastures, and small structures along the waterside.

The Ultimate Family Farm Staycation in Tennessee You’ll Never Forget

Create lasting memories on a Farm Staycation in Tennessee at Cedar Pond Farms, featuring friendly animals and lovely barn…

A woman and man feed Highland cattle in a pasture with white fencing and bare trees in the background.

Highland Cows as Pets? The Shaggy Truth!

Imagine walking into your backyard and seeing a big, fluffy, long-haired cow staring at you with soulful eyes and a gentle snort. That’s a…

A woman in a tan jacket crouches down to pet a fluffy brown dog on grassy ground.

Why Highland Cows Are Secret Superheroes of the Pasture

Uncover the fascinating facts about Highland cows. See how these fluffy cows contribute to biodiversity and keep nature…

A white wooden pergola with string lights frames a porch swing overlooking a grassy field and tree line.

Celebrate Special Occasions at Cedar Pond Farms: Your Ultimate Farm Experience in Tennessee

Explore Cedar Pond Farms for unique farm wedding venues in Tennessee. Experience rustic charm and beautiful countryside…

A bride and groom stand on a white dock overlooking a calm river with a white farmhouse and trees in the background.

A Beautiful Country Wedding Venue Near the Smoky Mountains

Why Choose Cedar Pond Farms? If you’ve been dreaming of a country-style wedding surrounded by nature , rolling fields, and peaceful scenery,…

A reddish-brown Highland cow with long horns rests on grass with bare trees in the background.

Are Highland Cows for Meat… Milk… Or Both?

Highland cows look like mythical creatures — like shaggy red giants who wandered out of a storybook with dramatic hair and soulful eyes. But don’t…

A man and woman stand with a long-haired tan goat near a red metal gate on a farm.

Scottish Highland Cows Near Me: A Fun Day Trip from Sevierville, TN

Discover the charm of Scottish Highland cows and experience the fluffy cows at Cedar Pond Farms near…

Group of Scottish Highland Cows grazing in pasture at Cedar Pond Farms, Tennessee

How to see Scottish Highland Cows the Cheapest Way in Tennessee.

Find the cheapest way to see scottish Highland cows when you Visit the smoky mountains and…

Scottish Highland cows standing under a tree in a green pasture at Cedar Pond Farms, Tennessee

Scottish Highland Cows Near Me

Scottish Highland Cows Near Me: Year-Round Fluffy Cow Adventures in Sevierville, TN Scottish Highland Cows Near Me: Year-Round Fluffy Cow…

A woman and man feed Highland cattle in a pasture with white fence posts and bare trees in the background.

Skip the Hotel

Why Cedar Pond Farms Is the Perfect Smoky Mountains Farm Stay When planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, most visitors automatically search for…

10 Wedding Favor Ideas for 2026

Looking for the best wedding favor ideas of 2026? Discover 10 unique and trendy favors your guests will…

Creating a Memorable East Tennessee Farm Wedding

Looking for an East Tennessee farm wedding venue? Get inspired with tips to create a magical wedding at Cedar Pond…

Fluffy cows near me

If you are someone who is crazy about scottish highland cows then look no further. We have the perfect place for you here at Cedar Pond Farms.…

The Gatlinburg Day Trip Itinerary: A Local’s Guide

Plan the perfect Gatlinburg day trip with these local tips from Cedar Pond Farms. Discover the best breakfast spots, attractions, and…

One Day in Pigeon Forge: A Local Day Trip Guide

Spend one day in Pigeon Forge like a local with our guide! Add these places to your East Tennessee…

Capture Stunning Moments at Cedar Pond Farms: The Best Outdoor Photo Location Near Knoxville

Discover why Cedar Pond Farms is the best outdoor photo location near Knoxville, TN! With ponds, docks, pasture views, and charming farm scenery,…

Tips For Couples Planning Destination Weddings

Tips For Couples Planning Destination Weddings Destination weddings have been around for centuries, but they’ve never been more popular than…

Holiday & Winter Activities in East Tennessee

Find the best holiday activities to do in East Tennessee, including Dollywood, local markets, winter hikes, and family-friendly fun near Cedar Pond…

Having A Perfect Winter Tennessee Destination Wedding

Make your winter Tennessee destination wedding unforgettable with these tips. East Tennessee offers the perfect backdrop for your big…

Winter Wedding Trends

Imagine your winter wedding inspired by the season’s most enchanting trends. Cedar Pond Farms is here to make your dreams a…

Say ‘I Do’ and Stay at Cedar Pond Farms: A Tennessee Wedding Venue with Accommodations

Looking for a Tennessee wedding venue with accommodations? We offer stunning ceremony spaces, barn receptions, and overnight…

One Day at Cedar Pond Farms: A Relaxing East Tennessee Day Trip

Looking for an East Tennessee day trip? Spend the day at the farm enjoying friendly animals & hands-on farm experiences near…

Host Your Family Christmas Party on the Farm

Host your next family Christmas party at Cedar Pond Farms! Enjoy barn celebrations, overnight stays & holiday memories in East…

Discover the Adorable World of Scottish Highland Cows

Make your East Tennessee trip unforgettable with a trip to Cedar Pond Farms and its unique Scottish Highland cow…

Fluffy Cow Facts For You to Know

Scottish Highland cows have a rich history as the world's oldest cattle breed, so let’s dive into some fluffy cow facts to know for your next…

How Barndominiums Can Save You on Construction Costs

Let’s see why barndominiums are a popular choice for its money saving construction methods and stunning…

A Detailed Guide to Having a Tennessee Wedding

If you're considering a Tennessee wedding, then we have the guide for you. Get ready to say, “I do” in the Volunteer…

Wedding Budget Tips For Your Dream Wedding

Looking for ways to plan your dream wedding without breaking the bank? Read more to see wedding budget tips - happy…

Celebrate Love at Tennessee’s Premier Farm Wedding Venue

Why not bring a rustic twist to a classic wedding? Celebrate your love at a farm wedding venue with Cedar Pond…

Unique Farm Experiences for Everyone

At our farm, we take pride in the farm experiences we offer. Whether it’s a cow encounter or photoshoot, there’s something for…

Having a DIY Destination Wedding

Let's talk about how + why you should DIY your destination wedding! Keep reading to learn more about doing it yourself from Cedar Pond…

Top Five Reasons to Consider a Destination Wedding

Destination weddings offer beauty, intimacy & adventure. Learn the top reasons why more couples are choosing to tie the knot away from…

Top 3 Reasons to Have a Barn Wedding

A barn wedding adds the perfect charm to an already unforgettable day! Read more on why you should consider a barn as your…

Elevate Your Wedding in 7 Ways & Make It Unforgettable

From lighting to personalized decor, here are some unique ways to make your wedding experience truly unforgettable at Cedar Pond…

The Pros and Cons of Owning a Highland Cow

Today, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of owning a Scottish Highland cow and what you should consider before bringing one…

Discover the Charm of Our Fluffy Cow Experience

What better way to spend your day than with a Fluffy Cow Experience and a heaping scoop of Gelato Brothers’ Gelato at Cedar Pond…

Exploring Classic Wedding Traditions and Superstitions

While modern weddings continue to evolve, we’ll be taking a look at some of the most classic traditions that have remained…

Celebrating Your Special Day at The Grand White Barn

Say “I Do” under the romantic lighting of our Grand White Barn at Cedar Pond Farms. Take your rustic wedding to the next level with…

Elevate Your Wedding Experience with Our Overnight Stays

At Cedar Pond Farms, you can keep the party going with us and our overnight stays option! Read more about our barndos and other…

Engagement Checklist: What Comes After Getting Engaged?

Calling all newly engaged couples! Our engagement checklist covers everything you need to know leading up to the…

The Rising Trend of Micro Weddings

Sometimes, it’s not a bad thing to go small. In our newest blog, we’ll talk about why there’s been a surge in micro…

Choosing Between a Formal or Informal Wedding: Why Not Both?

As your wedding day approaches, it's important to decide whether you want a formal or informal wedding! Let's discuss which is best for…

Crafting the Perfect Proposal

Plan and understand the perfect proposal with Cedar Pond Farms’ tips and tricks to ensure your partner says…

The Guide to the Perfect Outdoor Wedding

Make your outdoor wedding dreams come true with these handpicked tips from us! Let's get into the venues, weather, decor, and…

Why Are Scottish Highland Cows So Expensive?

These Scottish Highland cows are known for their majestic features, but they don’t come without a price - let’s find out how much they…

A Rustic Romance: Celebrating Love Among Fluffy Cows

Cedar Pond Farms offers a unique twist to the traditional wedding ceremony with its fluffy cows, redefining the meaning of a rustic…

5 Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue

Planning your special day? Discover the 5 essential questions to ask your wedding venue to ensure a perfect…

Debunking Common Wedding Planning Myths

Hearing conflicting advice about wedding planning? Let's debunk some myths today to leave you feeling less overwhelmed about your…

Unique Wedding Themes for This Season

It's wedding season, so let's talk about how you can make your special day even more memorable with these unique wedding…

2025 Wedding Proposal Trends: Time to Say “Yes”

This year, we're straying away from the conventional proposals. Let's see how you can personalize your wedding with these proposal…

A Southern Affair: Planning Your Tennessee Farm Wedding

What better way to celebrate your day than with a classic Tennessee farm wedding? Let’s talk about why a southern affair is the way to…

Blooming in 2025: The Latest Floral Trends to Celebrate

Explore the most notable floral trends for 2025! From vivid wildflowers to sustainable practices, we cover them all…

Introducing the Fluffy Cow Cocktail Hour

Discover the Fluffy Cow Cocktail Hour! Learn how fluffy cows bring rustic charm and unforgettable photo moments to your special…

A Guide for Couples Planning a Destination Wedding

With your wedding day on the horizon, what better way to celebrate than with the perfect destination wedding in charming…

6 Questions to Ask When Booking Your Wedding Venue

Booking a wedding venue can be stressful, but we're here to help! Here are the 6 most important questions you should ask when booking a…

Five Reasons Why Your Wedding Should be in East Tennessee

Congrats on your engagement! Today, we'll be talking about the five reasons why your wedding should be in East Tennessee this wedding…

Incorporating Scottish Highland Cows into Your Wedding

Looking for ways to wow the crowd? Make your wedding day unforgettable by adding the rustic charm from these Scottish Highland…

A Guide to a Beautiful Barn Wedding

This is Cedar Pond Farms’ guide to planning your dream barn wedding! Let's explore the details for your rustic wedding…

All Scottish Highland Cows Have Horns

At Cedar Pond Farms, we take pride in our Scottish Highland cows, horns and all! Let’s take a look at bulls versus…

Top Wedding Dress Trends for 2025: The Modern Bride

2025 is the year for showing individuality and sophistication. Let's dive into some of this year's wedding dress…

Perfect Pairings: Cocktails and Cows at Your Wedding

At Cedar Pond Farms, we offer the perfect blend of rustic charm and whimsy with our Cocktails and Cows special! Keep reading for more…

The Pros and Cons of Having a Wedding in Each Season

Feeling indecisive about which season to have your wedding? Let's talk about the pros and cons and find the right fit for…

Your Romantic Escape: Top Honeymoon Destination Ideas

Looking for some can't-miss honeymoon destination ideas? Check out our blog for Cedar Pond Farms' top…

2025 Wedding Trends: The Future of Nuptials Unveiled

If you're special wedding day is coming up, you may want to consider some of 2025's wedding trends! Give our blog a look for more…

3 Reasons for a Corporate Event in the Country

Here are three compelling reasons why you should host your next corporate event in the country with Cedar Pond…

5 Wedding Send-Off Ideas for an Unforgettable Exit

Here are some of our favorite wedding send-off ideas that will provide the perfect fit to your special day! Read more…

A group of full-size Scottish Highland cows grazing an open pasture at Cedar Pond Farms in East Tennessee

Highland Cows: The Complete Guide to the Breed

What a Scottish Highland cow actually is — the double coat, the horns both sexes carry, size, temperament, lifespan, what they eat and what they…

Scottish Highland cattle grazing the Cedar Pond Farms pasture at sunset in New Market, Tennessee

Everything You Need to Know About Owning a Scottish Highland Cow Starts Here

Land, fencing, water, shelter, a vet within reach and getting her home — the twelve questions worth answering before you buy one…

The white beehive standing in the grass at the wood line past the pasture fence at Cedar Pond Farms

Honey From Our Own Hive: Raw East Tennessee Farm Honey

Where the hive sits, what the bees work across a season, and why a jar from a working farm tastes like the ground it stands on…

The pond-side dock reaching out over the two-acre catfish lake at the middle of Cedar Pond Farms

Fishing the Catfish Pond on a Tennessee Farm Stay

No license, no gear to pack, and two docks to fish from — how a morning on the two-acre lake actually works…

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