July 7, 2026
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The moment I stepped through the gates of the Bruce Botanical Food Gardens, I was greeted by the unmistakable scent of summer.
Not the scent of sunscreen or freshly-cut grass, but something softer. The fragrance of lavender drifted through the gardens like a June breeze, carrying hints of sunshine, wildflower fields, fresh linens drying on the clothesline, and a quiet afternoon spent outdoors. It was the kind of aroma that awakens forgotten memories and instantly slows the pace of the day. Every breath seemed to wrap me in calm, inviting the other workshop participants and me to set aside our busy schedules and simply enjoy the moment.
That welcoming atmosphere set the tone for the “Sweet Dreams” Mini Lavender Wreath Workshop, led by gardens manager Olivia Haufe, in her very first adult workshop of 2026 at the food gardens. While many families already know her from the children’s workshops she regularly leads, this marked her debut as an instructor for an adult class.
More than 20 participants, ranging in age from their 30s to their 60s, gathered around tables filled with fresh lavender, laughter, and conversation. Friends attended together, family members shared the experience, and more than five newcomers discovered the gardens for the first time.
Before the workshop began, participants were shown beautiful examples of the finished lavender dreamcatcher they would soon be creating. Armed with baskets, scissors, and containers of water, they headed into the gardens to harvest their own lavender. Haufe demonstrated a technique to properly cut the fragrant stems while explaining how to select the best blooms for weaving.
A lavender dreamcatcher (right) made during the workshop; photos by Alexandra Mitchell
What stood out most wasn’t just the creativity - it was the sense of community. Guests happily shared scissors, offered encouragement, exchanged stories, and complimented one another’s creations as each dreamcatcher slowly took shape. When one attendee announced it was her birthday, the entire room paused to sing “Happy Birthday,” filling the hoophouse with smiles.
Throughout the afternoon, Haufe prepared and served refreshments using ingredients grown right at the food gardens, giving everyone another taste of the gardens. The lavender iced tea quickly became a favourite, offering a cool sip of summer that perfectly complemented the fragrant surroundings.
Among those attending was Deb, a returning guest, who had participated in last year’s lavender workshop. She fondly recalled taking home bundles of lavender that lasted long after the event had ended. When she heard Haufe would be leading her first workshop, she eagerly signed up.
“I loved last year’s workshop, and I still have the beautiful lavender I brought home,” she said. “I couldn’t wait to come back and support Olivia (Haufe)’s first class.”
Several participants echoed that sentiment, saying they planned to return for future workshops and were excited by the growing variety of events offered throughout the season. Others had recently moved to Ripley and were thrilled to discover everything the Bruce Botanical Food Gardens has to offer.
Bruce Botanical Food Gardens manager Olivia Haufe (standing, right) leads her first adult lavender workshop
As for me, I learned something completely new - how to weave a lavender flower dreamcatcher by hand.
Between freshly picked lavender, the gentle summer breeze drifting through the open doors, the refreshing lavender iced tea, and the welcoming group of people gathered around the tables, the afternoon became much more than a craft workshop. It became an experience.
It was a reminder that some of the best summer memories aren’t found on busy vacations or expensive outings. Sometimes, they're waiting in a garden, surrounded by the fragrance of lavender, shared laughter, and neighbours who quickly become friends.
If this workshop is any indication of what’s still to come at the food gardens, there are plenty of reasons to visit. Whether you want to learn a new skill, meet members of the community, or simply spend a relaxing afternoon in nature, the gardens offer something for all ages.
Those interested in upcoming adult and children’s workshops, special events, and seasonal activities can follow the Bruce Botanical Food Garden’s Facebook page for the latest announcements and behind-the-scenes updates. Workshop registrations, including children's workshops, can be booked on-line at bbfg.setmore.com.
Children’s workshops are offered by donation, with a suggested donation of $5, helping make hands-on learning accessible for families. Adult workshops have a registration fee, with payment accepted by e-transfer in advance or by cash on the day of the workshop, making it easy for participants to reserve their place.
Written ByAlexandra Mitchell is a volunteer writer for the Bruce Botanical Food Gardens.
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