When Ben told Lauren his dream was to own a meat processing facility, she had to admit, it wasn’t what she expected! But she knew Ben’s work ethic – the kind that comes from a lifetime of hard work, a degree in Animal Science, and a passion for agriculture. He wasn’t just dreaming; he was planning. And a few years later, Light Hill Custom Butchery opened its doors.
Ben’s journey started with a small herd and a big vision. His love for numbers and cattle led him to explore the beef business, and with the help of some generous folks, he made it happen. Then, he met Lauren. She was in Montana, telling the stories of ranchers, but Ben’s Southern charm brought her to Tennessee. From documenting ranch life to living it, Lauren embraced the adventure. Light Hill is a testament to their shared passion and dedication.
After their wedding, Ben and Lauren’s family grew, and so did Ben’s ambition. When a nearby meat processing facility became available, it was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. It was the perfect way to realize his dream and give back to his community.
They purchased the facility, renamed it Light Hill Meats, and Ben set to work. He updated the operation, hired local talent, and secured USDA certification, allowing them to process beef, hogs, and sheep. With three children, their commitment to building a strong, family-focused business deepened.
Light Hill now offers a complete, transparent supply chain, from pasture-raised animals to expertly processed meat. Ben and Lauren are passionate about providing high-quality, local beef that families can trust. “We take the utmost pride in producing food that families can trust and be excited about,” Ben emphasizes. Every step is carefully planned, ensuring a premium experience for their customers.
When grocery store shelves emptied during the pandemic, Lauren noticed the frustration in her community. Families struggled to find basic meat supplies. Seeing this need, they launched pop-up shops, bringing farm-fresh meat directly to their neighbors.
The pop-ups were a huge success, with customers traveling from far and wide. Inspired by the demand, Ben decided to open a retail store in Spring Hill, offering a consistent and convenient source for high-quality meat.
The diagnosis of their son, Corban, with autism in 2016 profoundly impacted Ben and Lauren. Seeking answers, Ben delved into research, exploring various therapies and dietary approaches.
They discovered that focusing on Corban’s digestive health through specific diet changes and therapies yielded positive results. This experience led them to prioritize natural, preservative-free foods for their entire family.
This commitment to wellness extends to their farm and the products they offer, reflecting their belief in the power of natural, wholesome food. Ben is available to share their experiences and research with anyone seeking information on autism and related therapies.
