Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch

Weaving Dreams: The Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch Story and the Power of Small Business Guidance 

Photo by Hannah Prendergast Photography

A Family Dream Woven in Alpaca Fiber 

Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch, nestled in southern Illinois, is the realization of a dream shared by mother-daughter team Judy Hoepker and Morgan Stevenson. What began a decade ago as Morgan’s search for softer, locally sourced yarn for her crocheted goods has blossomed into a thriving agritourism destination and fiber arts business. Unable to find the right yarn, Morgan decided to learn every step of the process herself—from raising alpacas to shearing, skirting, and spinning their fiber into luxurious yarn. Today, the ranch has grown from three alpacas to a bustling herd, welcoming visitors to experience the world of alpaca farming firsthand. 

Guests at Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch can tour the farm, interact with the friendly alpacas, hand-feed them, and explore the workshop where raw fiber is transformed into finished products. The farm store features a wide array of products, including felted goat milk soaps, dryer balls, shawls, socks, toys, and, of course, their signature yarns. 

Innovation and Expansion: The Birth of Alpacalets 

The idea for Alpacalets was born as Morgan and Judy explored additional ways to diversify and their product line using the alpaca yarn they produce on their ranch. With a focus on creating a high-quality, wearable item that could appeal to a broader market year-round, they discovered a method for braiding the fiber to durable stylish bracelets. This innovation allowed them to add value to their existing fiber supply and create a scalable, trademarked product that aligns with their mission of sustainable, American-made goods.  

Empowering Growth with the Small Business Development Center 

Judy and Morgan’s entrepreneurial journey reached new heights with the support of the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SIU. By participating in the Southern Illinois Business Plan Competition powered by Regions, they gained access to three intensive workshops covering business planning, financial management, and pitching. SBDC advisers provided one-on-one guidance, helping them refine their business plan and craft a compelling 90-second pitch. 

Their hard work paid off: Judy and Morgan won first place at both the Marion local and Regional competitions, earning $6,000 in funding and $6,750 in in-kind services. The prize money allowed them to purchase an engraving machine for branding their Alpacalets’ clasps and invest in new signage and promotional materials—key steps in elevating their brand’s visibility. 

Looking Ahead: Marketing, Growth, and Continued Partnership 

Like many small businesses, Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch faces the ongoing challenge of expanding their reach and marketing their unique products. Their goals include increasing brand awareness and growing their customer base. 

The SBDC remains a vital partner in this journey. Advisors alerted Judy and Morgan to the USDA Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program, which helps agricultural producers add value to their products through activities like marketing and advertising. With SBDC’s guidance, they submitted a strong application and are now awaiting the results of the 2025 awards. Meanwhile, they continue to collaborate with SBDC to explore new opportunities for growth. 

Celebrating Milestones and Building a Legacy 

This year marked a special milestone for Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch: the birth of its first second-generation cria (baby alpaca), born to an alpaca that was herself born on the ranch. The new arrival is co-owned by the next generation, Sam, age 13, who is already learning the ropes of alpaca care. 

Judy and Morgan’s story is a testament to the power of family, innovation, and the right support. By partnering with the SBDC, they have not only grown their own business but have become ambassadors for what small businesses can achieve with expert guidance and community resources. 

Learn more about Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch:

rollingoakalpacaranch.com
facebook.com/roarfibers