As summer approaches, the blackberry bushes around Bristow are beginning to ripen and so are the plans of Bristow Berry Bros, a small local business run by two entrepreneurial brothers. Now entering their fifth harvest season, the boys behind the operation are gearing up to deliver another year of fresh, wild-picked blackberries to their loyal community.
Founded in 2020 by brothers now aged 13 and 10, Bristow Berry Bros started humbly, picking wildberries for neighbor, Rick Knight. The experience revealed a surprising demand: many people love wild berries, but few enjoy the sweaty, bug-filled work of picking them. The brothers stepped up to fill that niche.
“We realized we were offering something people really wanted, and it felt good to help while also saving for things we liked,” one of the brothers shared. Over the years, their earn-
See Black Berries, Page Three the brothers shared. Over the years, their earnings have gone toward fun and practical purchases, including a go-kart, a VR headset, a computer, and even a used air hockey table.
Rather than setting fixed prices, the boys run their business on an honor system, asking customers to pay what they believe is fair.The average? About $10 per quart, a system that’s built both trust and community support.
Of course,berry picking in Oklahoma heat isn’t without its challenges. “The chiggers and ticks are brutal,” they admitted, “and sometimes it’s over 100 degrees out there.”But the brothers have developed a toolbox of tricks to cope: military-grade sulfur deterrents for chiggers, tightly tucked clothing and essential oil sprays for ticks,and early morning or late evening harvests to avoid the worst of the heat. Cooling gear like mesh hats, neck fans, and wet snap towels also help them stay on top of their game.Despite the obstacles, the brothers remain dedicated to their work. “It’s worth it,” they say. “We’re learning how to work hard and solve problems, and nwe get to offer something valuable to people.”
They plan to keep Bristow Berry Bros running for at least a few more years. “We’ll probably do it for another two to four seasons, until it stops working for us or for the community.” Blackberry season typically runs from June to August, and updates on harvest times and availability can be found on their Facebook page: facebook.com/BristowsBerryBros.