TL;DR
- Kevin and Dragan left city life for a farm in Virginia.
- Their farm promotes LGBTQ+ acceptance in a conservative area.
- They document their farming journey on social media.
- Local community embraces their exceptional products.
- Visibility and connection are key to their success.
In the heart of Virginia, where the rolling hills meet the open skies, there’s a sign that catches the eye of every passerby: “Gardening Gays Farm.” No fluff, no apologies—just a bold statement from husbands Kevin Graham and Dragan Kurbalija, who swapped the bustling cocktail scene of Washington, D.C. for the serene life of farming. And honey, they’re not just growing crops; they’re cultivating a community of acceptance.
These two fabulous farmers have turned their land into a sanctuary where LGBTQ+ visibility flourishes. After leaving behind their glamorous city life, complete with brunches and bar-hopping, they dove into the world of agriculture—waking up at 4 a.m. for chicken chores and embracing the joys of lambing season. In a county that’s often painted with conservative brushstrokes, Kevin and Dragan are redefining what it means to be a gay couple in rural America.
“We wanted to create a space where everyone feels welcome,” says Kevin, who grew up in rural Florida. His husband, Dragan, hails from Serbia, where he faced his own struggles with identity. The couple met online and tied the knot in 2017, but it wasn’t until the pandemic hit that they realized they wanted more than just a comfortable life—they wanted to make a difference.
When they stumbled upon a property in King George County, they seized the opportunity. What started as a simple farm has blossomed into a vibrant hub of local produce, where community members can find fresh eggs, milk, and even a friendly face. Their charm and commitment to quality have earned them accolades, including multiple wins in the “KG Best of the Best” awards, and they’ve become integral to the local agricultural scene.
But it’s not just about the products; it’s about the connections they foster. With nearly 60,000 followers on Facebook, Kevin and Dragan have turned their farm into a local landmark. Travelers on US-301 can’t help but stop and check out the “gay farm” that’s become a beacon of hope and acceptance. “It’s all about being part of the community and showing up for our neighbors,” Dragan explains.
Yet, the couple isn’t blind to the challenges that come with their visibility. In a county where conservative values often reign, they’ve encountered resistance, including a recent denial of a Gay-Straight Alliance at a local school. But they remain hopeful. “Progress will not be stopped,” says Congressman Eugene Vindman, who recognizes the importance of their presence in the community.
As they continue to grow their farm and their impact, Kevin and Dragan are proving that love, visibility, and hard work can transform not just a piece of land, but an entire community. Their story is one of resilience and pride, reminding us all that even in the most unexpected places, acceptance can take root and flourish.
So the next time you’re passing through Virginia, don’t just drive by—stop at the Gardening Gays Farm. You might just leave with more than fresh produce; you’ll walk away with a little more love and acceptance in your heart.