Vanessa Villanova

FOUNDER

Vanessa traded the Sunshine State for the Empire State nearly 25 years ago… and never looked back. Over the years, she developed a deep passion for the legalization and cultivation of hemp. One day, that passion turned into action: she bought a farm and made the leap from hemp enthusiast to hemp entrepreneur.

With a background spanning real estate, consulting, project management, and leadership roles at blue-chip companies in the digital space, Vanessa has now parlayed her expertise into launching The Hemptons.

Suzie Eckhart

Co-FOUNDER

Raised in the farmlands of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Suzie grew up surrounded by towering walls of corn and fields of tobacco. Now, she’s excited to return to her roots in Upstate New York — this time to grow walls of industrial hemp.

Suzie brings a deep and diverse background in digital marketing and AdTech, having built her career in New York City. She’s now channeling that experience and network into building The Hemptons.

Fun fact: Suzie had six guinea pigs growing up. Her favorite, May, inspired the name of their very first hemp field.

Curtis & Rilo, our dream team!

Curtis and Rilo are the ultimate dynamic duo! Curtis, at 17 years young, is a seasoned professional in the art of napping and winning hearts. Though he moves a little slower these days and his eyesight isn’t what it used to be, he’s still a master at looking adorable — especially when snacks are involved.

Rilo, the younger spirit at 4 years old, brings endless sweetness to the team. She’s a little wary of the wind (and, honestly, most things), but her gentle heart and adventurous spirit always shine through. Together, Curtis and Rilo are always up for a farm walk, a new adventure, or — their personal favorite — a few extra treats.

They’re proof that age and energy levels may differ, but love, loyalty, and snack appreciation are forever.