Hi, I'm Lori Godwin
After growing up in Savannah, Tennessee and traveling the world, I'm always returning to Downing Hollow Farm. It's where I feel a deep sense of belonging. As the owner of a bed and breakfast, short-term rental manager, caterer, and host of retreats and events, I find that wearing these hats is the charm of farm life. Living in the countryside gives me the chance to share this joy with you.
My Story
Welcome to my corner of the world, where life's journey has unfolded amidst a love for adventure, music, and the simple pleasures that make our hearts sing. As you read through this About page, I'm humbled to share the chapters of my story, marked by creativity, culinary passion, and a genuine connection to the land.
Under the invaluable guidance of the remarkable Karen Blockman Carrier, a Memphis culinary luminary and esteemed expert, I discovered a kindred spirit who not only shaped my culinary journey but also profoundly influenced my approach to life.
The 80s saw me rocking the stage with the Hellcats, an all-girl punk band, setting off a rock & roll odyssey. Transitioning to the 90s, I ventured into a solo career as Lorette Velvette, sharing my vocals and guitar across Northern Europe. Amidst the musical notes, my heart remained tethered to the earth.
In 2003, my family and I found our home in Olivehill, TN, and created Downing Hollow Farm from the ground up. Together, we grew not just crops but also raised a family and a sustainable farm that extended a warm welcome to farm interns from all over the world. Managing over two acres of vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs, we shared Downing Hollow Farm's bounty at Memphis farmers markets and served customers in Savannah from 2006 to 2013. In Memphis, I co-founded the Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market in 2010 and subsequently served as Vendor Chair, later assuming the role of Board Chair. As a farmer under Downing Hollow Farm, I not only sold produce but also pioneered one of the first CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs in Memphis. Simultaneously, I managed The Rolling Store, offering regional cheeses, olive oil, and chocolates at the market.
I'm excited to announce after 30 years of culinary adventures in Memphis, I am expanding my catering services to Savannah and Pickwick Lake and the surrounding areas. Downing Hollow Farm has transformed into a vacation rental for R&R and an event space for retreats, workshops, and catering services. It's more than just a farm—it's a haven where I joyfully share the beauty and magic of a serene, pastoral setting with visitors from far and wide.