Hannah Neeleman, a name that resonates across social media platforms, has crafted a unique narrative that intertwines ballet, farming, and family life. Her journey from the stages of New York City to the sprawling fields of Utah, and most recently to the lush landscapes of Ireland, offers a compelling story of passion, resilience, and reinvention. With millions following her daily life online, she has become a symbol of balance—where tradition meets modernity, and where career ambitions harmonize with motherhood and entrepreneurship.
Early Life and Ballet Beginnings of Hannah Neeleman
Born on June 25, 1990, in Springville, Utah, Hannah was the eighth of nine children in a devout Mormon family. Her parents, Chad and Cherie Wright, owned a flower shop, instilling in her an appreciation for hard work, creativity, and entrepreneurship from a young age. Growing up in a large, close-knit family, Hannah was surrounded by strong values of perseverance and dedication.
From an early age, she exhibited a profound love for dance. At just 14 years old, her passion and dedication led her to attend summer programs at The Juilliard School in New York City, one of the world’s premier performing arts conservatories. By the age of 17, she had secured a place at Juilliard, embarking on rigorous training that would shape her discipline and artistry. Studying under world-class instructors, Hannah refined her technique, learning the importance of grace, control, and storytelling through movement.
Her ballet career was poised for success. She trained and performed in prestigious productions, impressing audiences with her elegance and technical precision. Yet, despite her deep love for the stage, life had other plans for her.
Hannah Neeleman ‘s Transition from Ballet to Farming
While pursuing her passion for ballet, Hannah’s life took an unexpected turn when she met and married Daniel Neeleman. Daniel, an entrepreneur and businessman, shared her values of hard work and sustainability. The couple dreamed of a lifestyle that combined their love for the arts with a return to simpler, more meaningful living.
In 2018, that dream materialized when they acquired a 328-acre property in Kamas, Utah, which they named Ballerina Farm. The name reflects Hannah’s ballet background, symbolizing the fusion of her past and present endeavors. Unlike the hustle and bustle of city life, this new venture allowed them to cultivate a self-sufficient lifestyle while raising their growing family.
Farming was an entirely new world for Hannah. Learning to milk cows, care for animals, and grow crops was a stark contrast to the structured routines of a ballet studio. However, her discipline from years of rigorous dance training translated well into this new environment. She embraced the early mornings, the hard labor, and the deep satisfaction that came from working the land.
Hannah Neeleman Establishing Ballerina Farm
Ballerina Farm is more than just a homestead; it is a thriving business that has captured the imagination of thousands. Hannah and Daniel, along with their eight children, manage the daily operations, ensuring that their farm’s offerings maintain the highest quality standards.
The farm specializes in pasture-raised meats, handmade baked goods, and artisanal homewares. Through online sales, their products reach customers across the country, making farm-fresh goods accessible to a wider audience.
The couple’s commitment to sustainable and ethical farming practices has garnered them a loyal customer base. By promoting regenerative agriculture, they emphasize the importance of soil health, humane animal treatment, and organic food production. Their work reflects a growing movement of people seeking a return to more natural, unprocessed lifestyles.
Social Media Presence and Influence
Hannah’s ability to authentically share her family’s farming journey has resonated with millions. Through platforms like Instagram, where she operates under the handle @ballerinafarm, she provides a window into their daily lives, blending the elegance of ballet with the rustic charm of farm life.
Her social media presence has skyrocketed, amassing nearly 20 million followers captivated by her content. Whether she’s baking bread with her children, showcasing life on the farm, or dancing in the fields, her ability to make everyday moments feel beautiful has set her apart from other influencers.
Her success online has led to collaborations with brands, sponsorships, and increased exposure for her farm business. Unlike many influencers who curate an unattainable, glossy lifestyle, Hannah’s appeal lies in her authenticity. She celebrates the messiness of motherhood, the hard work of farming, and the balance of pursuing personal passions while raising a family.
Addressing Public Perception and Criticism
Despite her widespread acclaim, Hannah has faced criticism, particularly concerning perceptions of promoting traditional gender roles. A profile in The Sunday Times Magazine labeled her as a “tradwife,” a term associated with women who embrace traditional domestic roles and reject modern feminism. Some critics argue that her portrayal of homemaking and motherhood idealizes a lifestyle that is not feasible for all women.
In response, Hannah took to Instagram to clarify her stance, emphasizing her autonomy and the equal partnership she shares with her husband in both their marriage and business ventures. She highlighted that her choices are a reflection of personal fulfillment rather than societal expectations.
This controversy sparked larger conversations about the evolving roles of women in modern society. While some see her as a beacon of traditional femininity, others view her as an empowered woman who has successfully blended family life with entrepreneurship and personal passion. Regardless of differing opinions, Hannah continues to share her story in a way that feels true to her values.
Recent Relocation to Ireland
In early 2025, the Neeleman family embarked on a new adventure, temporarily relocating to Cork, Ireland. This move was motivated by their desire to enhance their culinary skills at the renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School. Known for its emphasis on organic farming and traditional cooking techniques, the school aligns with Hannah and Daniel’s passion for sustainable living.
Their three-month stint in Ireland has allowed them to immerse themselves in a different culture while gaining valuable knowledge that they plan to integrate into their farm business back in Utah.
Hannah has expressed intentions to possibly publish a cookbook or expand their social media content to include more in-depth culinary explorations. Their time in Ireland reflects their ongoing commitment to lifelong learning and growth.
Final Thoughts
Hannah Neeleman’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing one’s passions and adapting to life’s evolving chapters. From the disciplined world of ballet to the demanding life of farming, and now exploring new horizons in Ireland, she continues to inspire many with her authenticity, resilience, and dedication to family and sustainable living.
Her story reminds us that success does not have a singular path. Whether on stage, on a farm, or in a new country, Hannah approaches each chapter with grace and determination. As her journey unfolds, her influence continues to grow, encouraging people to pursue a life that aligns with their values and aspirations.
FAQs
What is Ballerina Farm?
Ballerina Farm is a 328-acre homestead in Kamas, Utah, managed by Hannah and Daniel Neeleman. The farm offers pasture-raised meats, handmade baked goods, and artisanal homewares, all available for purchase online. The name reflects Hannah’s background as a trained ballerina and the family’s commitment to sustainable farming.
How did Hannah transition from ballet to farming?
Hannah trained at The Juilliard School in New York City and pursued a career in ballet. After marrying Daniel, they sought a lifestyle that combined their interests in the arts and sustainable living. This led them to establish Ballerina Farm, where they could raise their family and operate a farm business.
Why did the Neeleman family move to Ireland?
In early 2025, the Neeleman family temporarily relocated to Cork, Ireland, to attend the Ballymaloe Cookery School. This move aimed to enhance their culinary skills and integrate new techniques into their farm operations. The family immersed themselves in Irish culture, with their children attending local schools and the family exploring the countryside.
What controversies have surrounded Hannah Neeleman?
Hannah has faced criticism, particularly after a profile in The Sunday Times Magazine labeled her as a “tradwife,” a term associated with traditional gender roles. Critics argue that her portrayal of homemaking and motherhood idealizes a lifestyle that may not be attainable for all women. In response, Hannah emphasized her autonomy and equal partnership with her husband in both their marriage and business ventures.
How does Hannah balance family life and entrepreneurship?
Hannah and Daniel manage Ballerina Farm together, involving their eight children in daily operations. They prioritize family time while running their business, sharing their experiences through social media platforms. Hannah’s content often showcases the integration of family activities with farm work, highlighting the family’s collaborative approach.
What products does Ballerina Farm offer?
Ballerina Farm specializes in pasture-raised meats, handmade baked goods, and artisanal homewares. Their products are available for purchase online, allowing customers nationwide to enjoy farm-fresh goods. The farm emphasizes sustainable and ethical farming practices, ensuring high-quality offerings.
How can I follow Hannah Neeleman’s journey?
Hannah shares her family’s farming journey and daily life on social media platforms, particularly Instagram under the handle @ballerinafarm. Her content includes cooking tutorials, farm updates, and insights into balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship. Following her provides a glimpse into the authentic experiences of the Neeleman family.
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