Sustainable business: Q & A with Sweet Springs Family Farm
By Alyssa Gomez
Sweet Springs Family Farm Owner
Editor’s note: Alyssa Gomez is the owner of Sweet Springs Family Farm, which was certified as a Rethink Business by BRING. The Rethink program is supported in part by funding from Lane County Waste Management.
Q: Alyssa, what does sustainability mean to Sweet Springs Family Farm? As in, how do you define it?
Sustainability at Sweet Springs Family Farm means caring for the land, the animals, and the experience we’re creating for every guest. It’s about being intentional with how we live and host—so this special place can be enjoyed for generations to come.
From the way we tend our gardens and care for our animals, to the farm-fresh breakfasts we prepare, everything is rooted in a deep respect for nature and a love for meaningful living.
We’re also mindful of the little things that make a big impact—being conscious of energy and water use, recycling whenever possible, and choosing products that are gentle on the Earth. It’s not about perfection, but about making thoughtful choices every day that support a healthier environment.
Q: Why did you decide to become a Re-Think Business?
We went through BRING’s Rethink Business certification to learn, grow, and do better—for our land, our guests, and our future. It helped us improve how we operate, find ways to save money while doing good, and reduce our environmental footprint. But more than anything, we wanted to be part of something bigger, leading by example and hopefully inspiring others to make small, meaningful changes that add up.
Q: How was that certification process? What is difficult? Relatively easy?
The certification process itself was surprisingly approachable: it just took a little dedicated time. I truly enjoyed the experience and found it incredibly valuable.
I would absolutely encourage other business owners to pursue becoming Rethink Certified.
Q: What are some of the unique challenges you face as a hospitality-based business and operating sustainably?
Operating sustainably in a hospitality setting comes with its challenges—especially on a working farm. We’re constantly balancing creating a clean, cozy, comfortable experience for our guests while being mindful of energy, water, and waste. With the added layers of caring for animals, maintaining the land, and managing a high turnover of guests, it takes intention every single day.
One of the biggest challenges is gently educating and encouraging guests to be mindful alongside us. Not every guest arrives with the same awareness around sustainability, and when people are on vacation, the natural instinct is to fully relax and not think about things like water usage, energy consumption, or proper recycling. We completely understand that—and we want our guests to feel taken care of, not restricted.
Because of that, we approach it in a way that feels welcoming and easy. We offer simple guidance, lead by example, and create subtle reminders that make it easy for guests to participate—without taking away from the magic of their stay. It’s a delicate balance between hospitality and responsibility, and one we’re always learning and improving.
But it’s a challenge we embrace, because preserving the beauty and integrity of this place is just as important as the experience we create. Our hope is that even small moments of awareness during a stay here might inspire more thoughtful habits long after guests return home.
Alyssa Gomez is the owner of Sweet Springs Family Farm, a countryside lodging retreat and event venue known for its cozy luxury and unforgettable guest experiences. She is passionate about hospitality, community, and creating meaningful connections through farm life. Through her work, Alyssa strives to inspire others to follow their dreams, reconnect, and experience something truly special.
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