From Okra Fields to Farm Market Dreams: One Farmer’s Journey
What starts as a childhood passion grows into a lifelong calling. Hear how one farmer went from working old tractors at age 10 to running his own produce market—with help from First South Farm Credit. From planting three acres of okra to building a thriving retail business, it’s a story of grit, growth, and doing what you love every day.
Growing Crops and His Community: Vince Allegri’s Passion for Farming and Community
For Vince Allegri, farming is both his profession and his favorite hobby. Located just outside Fairhope, Alabama, Vince has cultivated a thriving sweet corn and vegetable operation that reflects his deep-rooted love for agriculture and his commitment to feeding his community.
Vince recalls that even as a kid, he knew that he wanted to become a farmer. He even started driving a tractor at just ten years old. He worked for a neighboring farm with the dream of owning his own operation. At 28, he stepped out on his own and began farming produce such as potatoes and sweet corn.
After years of experience and success, Vince decided to expand further. He built the Allegri Farm Market—a successful farmer’s market where Vince and other local producers come together to sell their goods. From sweet corn to seasonings, the market offers a large variety of seasonal produce and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates local farming.
Bringing this vision to life required more than hard work—it needed the right financial partner. Vince found that partner in First South Farm Credit. With the guidance and support of Brandon Simpson, Branch Manager, Vince was able to secure the financing needed to opened the Allegri Farm Market.
First South Farm Credit’s commitment to agriculture and rural development made them a natural fit for Vince’s goals. Their personalized approach and deep understanding of the farming industry helped streamline the process and turn a dream into a thriving reality.
“The best part of my day is when I go home in the afternoon after a really good day, I can sit back and think about it,” said Allegri. “I can know we did something.”
Today, the Allegri Farm Market stands as a testament to what’s possible when passion meets partnership. It’s more than a place to buy produce—it’s a place for community and a shared passion for agriculture. With First South Farm Credit by his side, he’s not only growing crops—he’s growing opportunities for fellow farmers and fresh possibilities for the people in his community.