Nature Retreat | Valley Bear Farms

Lou and Jackie Rubino had always been dreamers, and throughout their lives together, they followed a path that combined their entrepreneurial spirit with a deep love for creativity. As a couple, they embraced opportunities that others might shy away from, forging new ventures in the world of tattoo artistry. Lou, a second-generation tattoo artist, was introduced to the craft at a young age, learning the ropes from his father, who had started tattooing in Coney Island, New York, back in the 1950s. This rich legacy of tattooing, passed down from father to son, would become the foundation of their successful business empire.

From the very beginning, Lou and Jackie weren’t content with the ordinary. They built a business that stood out in the tattoo industry. Over the years, they opened seven tattoo studios across Long Island, New York, and even a flagship store in the heart of Manhattan’s Soho district. But that was just the beginning. Lou and Jackie had a vision to take the tattoo industry beyond the expected and into uncharted territory. They made history by opening one of the first-ever tattoo studios inside a mall. They were pioneers once again when they established the first-ever tattoo studio inside a professional sports arena with the NY Islanders. And if that wasn’t enough, they even took the bold step of opening the first-ever tattoo studio on a cruise ship with Virgin Voyages.

Their creative and innovative spirit didn’t stop there. They were the masterminds behind several high-profile tattoo expos in New York and Charlotte, where tattoo artists from all corners of the world gathered to share their passion and showcase their work. Lou and Jackie also developed an international tattoo ink brand from the ground up, which went on to become one of the most successful tattoo inks in the world. They didn’t just make a name for themselves as artists—they became industry leaders, creating groundbreaking products and building a team of award-winning international tattoo artists. Lou, ever the perfectionist, always pushed for improvement in every aspect of the business, whether it was the ink, the equipment, or the overall experience for tattoo artists and their clients.

But as much as Lou and Jackie loved the fast-paced world of the tattoo industry, they never lost sight of their love for nature. Their son, Louis, was a prime example of this passion. During his time at the University of South Carolina, Louis spent much of his free time hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Pisgah National Forest. The whole family had always loved the outdoors, often retreating to Vermont for family bonding, where they hiked the mountains and spent time together in the serenity of nature.

Then, in 2020, during the challenging days of COVID, Lou, Jackie, and Louis made a life-changing decision. They set their sights on a piece of land nestled in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest, and when they discovered Valley Bear Farms, they knew it was the place they had been searching for. It was more than just a piece of property—it was a chance to create something extraordinary. The Rubinos, with their entrepreneurial instincts and love for the outdoors, envisioned Valley Bear Farms as not just a farm, but a destination—a luxury resort immersed in nature, where guests could escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the beauty of the mountains.

With a shared passion for the environment and a deep appreciation for the wilderness, Lou, Jackie, and Louis set to work, transforming Valley Bear Farms into a unique and sustainable haven. Their vision for the farm included a blend of vacation accommodations, outdoor adventures, and nature conservation—a place where people could experience the wonders of the Pisgah National Forest while enjoying luxury, comfort, and connection to the earth.

What made Valley Bear Farms truly special, though, was its location. Surrounded by the lush, untouched beauty of the Pisgah National Forest, it was the perfect place to honor the family’s love for nature and their commitment to preserving it for future generations. Valley Bear Farms would not only be a retreat for those seeking peace and tranquility but also a place where people could learn about sustainability, nature preservation, and the importance of protecting the environment.

As Lou, Jackie, and Louis look toward the future, their dream of Valley Bear Farms continues to unfold. With each passing year, their commitment to creating an immersive, luxurious experience for visitors, while staying true to their love for the land and the natural world, drives the farm’s growth. It’s more than just a business venture—it’s a legacy that honors their past while embracing the beauty and peace of nature. Valley Bear Farms is a testament to the Rubino family’s enduring entrepreneurial spirit, their passion for innovation, and their deep connection to the outdoors—a place where dreams, hard work, and love of nature come together to create something truly special.

The Story of Valley Bear Farms:

Lou and Jackie Rubino

Creative and innovative

During the challenging days

Passion for the environment