In 1990, Dan Gregg founded Grelen Nursery, Inc. on a corner of a cattle farm owned by his family for three generations. The operation commenced as a wholesale field nursery; however, over the years, local demand grew to such a great extent that Gregg shifted the focus to retail sales and landscape installation and in 1997, hired Zeke Galvin as a partner to manage the landscaping business.
As the demand for Grelen's trees and services grew, Gregg and Galvin realized a need to expand its operation, and in 2003, purchased a 200-acre farm located in Somerset, Virginia. Approximately four years later, the operations of the nursery were moved to the Somerset farm, which provided the much-needed space for the growing business. During the past five years, Grelen has acquired two adjoining properties. Today, Grelen Nursery is one of the largest agricultural businesses in Orange County and one of the largest tree nurseries in the state of Virginia. The farm is almost 600 acres in size offering hundreds of types of trees, shrubs and plants and a full range of landscaping, hardscaping and maintenance services. With seven crews, two large tree spade trucks to transplant mature trees and a team of master stonemasons, craftsmen and gardeners, Grelen Nursery caters to clients who demand, and receive, the highest quality products and services.
Dan believes that "This is a wonderful community, full of beauty, history and opportunity. The local economy has changed, and manufacturing type industries are no longer the bedrock, or the future, of our economy. I believe agriculture and tourism will play a much more vital role in Virginia's economic battle to be sustainable. With Grelen Nursery, I want to combine the two into a potent local economic engine. I want to do my part as a citizen and business owner to bring as much to the community's economic table as possible. I want to keep my land agricultural and protect its open space. I want to prove that agri-businesses can be sustainable and economically viable, and that agriculture can actually stimulate tourism and, in turn, stimulate the local economy."
It was with these strong principles guiding him, that Dan decided to found The Market at Grelen in April, 2013.
The Market at Grelen's Mission Statement: To create a family friendly environment which celebrates open space, agriculture and the farm-to-table philosophy while successfully marketing our products and services to our visitors resulting in a successful and sustainable business model.
The Market at Grelen is a destination farm market and garden shop like no other in the area. Set on Grelen Nursery's 600 acres in Somerset Virginia, The Market at Grelen boasts breathtaking 360 degree mountain views. You can go shopping any day, but a trip to Grelen is about the experience.
Head out on a pick-your-own adventure...stroll through the lovely display gardens...choose from an ever-changing array of premium fruits and vegetables...enjoy a casual cafe lunch on the patio or in the greenhouse or fields...
In the cafe, it's all about local. Grelen's very own Chef Mel Daniels makes unforgettable goodies with Grelen grown vegetables, fruits and herbs as well as other locally sourced items. The menu... Homemade Pastries, Fresh Dips, Soups, Salads, & Cheese Plates....is simplicity at its most luxurious. Also available are local VA cheese, peanuts, snacks, grape juice & jams.
And for garden lovers? It's a little bit of heaven, the Garden Shop
offerings include: Bird Houses & Feeders, Gardening Tools & Supplies, Indoor & Outdoor Plants and Flowers, Lighting & Lanterns, Mixed Pots, Statuary, Urns & Garden Furniture, and
Unique Gifts.
Lastly, The Market at Grelen is the perfect place to launch memories! As a new local event venue, the property offers endless possibilities for celebrations of all types and sizes. Email Emily Grymes, Event Coordinator, TODAY!
