The Neeleman family, led by Hannah and Daniel, embarked on an extraordinary journey from their Utah farm to the lush landscapes of Ireland. This move was driven by a shared passion for culinary arts and a desire to attend Ballymaloe Cookery School, renowned for its organic farm-based education. Alongside this transformative experience, the couple continues to run Ballerina Farm, offering natural products that have garnered a national following.

Discover How Passion Transforms Lives Through Unconventional Adventures

A New Chapter in Ireland

On January 8th, Hannah Neeleman announced via TikTok that she and her husband, Daniel, along with their eight children, were embarking on a significant life change. They left behind their 328-acre Utah property to pursue a dream at Ballymaloe Cookery School in southern Ireland. This decision stemmed from a deep-seated love for sustainable farming and gourmet cooking. The school’s unique setting on an extensive, organically certified farm provided the perfect environment for the couple to refine their skills while immersing themselves in Ireland’s rich agricultural heritage.The transition required meticulous planning. Packing essentials, ensuring the farm’s operations ran smoothly in their absence, and organizing travel logistics were just a few of the tasks they undertook. Hannah documented every step of their preparation, sharing glimpses of their journey from Utah to New York before boarding a JetBlue flight. Notably, Daniel’s father founded JetBlue, adding a personal touch to their travels. To support the family during this period, Hannah’s mother joined them, easing the burden of childcare while Hannah and Daniel attended classes.

An Inspiring Start to Culinary Studies

Upon arrival in Ireland on a particularly rainy evening, the family settled into a charming cottage that would serve as their temporary home. Hannah wasted no time in capturing the essence of their new surroundings through her TikTok videos. She showcased the rustic beauty of their accommodation and the serene countryside that enveloped it.Hannah also chronicled the first day of culinary school for both herself and Daniel. In one video posted on January 9th, the couple proudly displayed their chef’s jackets, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter. Over the next few days, Hannah delved into various aspects of cooking, learning to prepare classic dishes like Quiche Lorraine and homemade jam. She expressed immense satisfaction with the hands-on approach and the emphasis on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. “Only a few days in, and culinary school is teaching me and inspiring me tremendously,” she captioned one post. “I love creating beautiful food with beautiful ingredients—loving it!”

Ballerina Farm: A Legacy of Natural Products

Back in Utah, Hannah and Daniel have built Ballerina Farm into a thriving enterprise. The farm produces a wide array of natural products, including protein powder, sourdough starters, and other items sold online. These offerings are not only rooted in their personal tastes but also reflect their commitment to quality and sustainability. In an interview with PEOPLE in October 2024, Hannah revealed how their social media presence initially aimed to connect local restaurants with farmers but eventually gained national recognition. With over 10 million followers, the couple’s influence has expanded far beyond their initial expectations.Their success story underscores the power of passion and innovation. Each product they sell is a testament to their dedication to elevating everyday items. Whether it’s a beloved recipe or a necessity they felt was missing, Hannah and Daniel strive to add value and uniqueness to everything they produce. “All of our products come from things that either we love or we’re missing,” Hannah explained. “Or [products] we love and we feel like maybe we can add a different angle and elevate it a little bit.”

Culinary Arts and Sustainable Living

The Neelemans’ move to Ireland signifies more than just a change in location; it represents a deeper commitment to sustainable living and culinary excellence. Ballymaloe Cookery School’s philosophy aligns perfectly with their values, emphasizing harmony with nature and the importance of organic practices. By attending the school, Hannah and Daniel aim to enhance their knowledge and bring back innovative ideas to Ballerina Farm.This immersive experience allows them to explore new techniques and ingredients, further enriching their product line. The couple’s dedication to learning and growing is evident in every aspect of their lives, from running a successful farm to raising a large family. Their adventure in Ireland exemplifies the balance between tradition and innovation, proving that sometimes the most rewarding journeys are those that take us far from home.