Before Rosé finally entered the household lexicon, pink wines were treated as second-glass citizens. Dessert wines have long suffered a similar fate. Around the world – and certainly In Virginia – however, world-class sweets abound. Crafted from a range of styles: cold fermentation, late-harvest, raisination, chaptalization, etc., the best local “stickies” beguile beyond their richness […]

Learn how to create the basic shapes and styles of floral designs—the building blocks for true creativity.  This course will introduce you to techniques and styles commonly used by professionals.   Learn preparation techniques, how to create basic shapes, and how to prepare flowers for long-lasting arrangements. A section on cut flower care and handling is […]

Every painting or watercolor doodle can be made into a unique and expressive notecard. On day one, experiment with a few watercolor techniques to create colorful "not too precious" pieces. On day two instructor Shelley Row coaches you how to use a variety of approaches to turn them into decorative and unique note cards. No […]

The love of tea has greatly affected history around the world. As different cultures embraced its delicious flavor they created traditions to enjoy it. While learning about this amazing plant, we will explore worldwide tea traditions and the tea flavors that inspired them. Following this exciting talk with tea expert Mark Ragland, enjoy a delicious […]

In natural systems, decomposition is an important part of the circle of life. It is the mechanism by which dead, complex, organic matter is broken down into simpler compounds. Composting mimics the natural process of decomposition using four, main components. In this lesson, we embrace the decomposition process as we explore our own unique compost […]

Identification of deciduous trees and shrubs in the summertime is a piece of cake for most naturalists, avid gardeners, environmental professionals, or outdoor enthusiasts. But what happens in the wintertime when leaves, flowers, and fruits are no longer at our disposal? Woody plants are every bit as recognizable in winter as they are in summer. […]

Plants are intimately linked to our cultural identities and food traditions. Plants tell us where we are, and who we are in how we use them to feed ourselves. When we migrate, we carry our culture and cuisine with us. In this series, renowned chefs, culinary historians, and authors from cultures around the world discuss […]

Create a unique living wreath for winter with Melissa Tebbenhoff of Rusted Rabbitt in Williamsburg. Using air plants and exotic succulents of your choice create a living work of art to perk up your winter. Melissa guides you through the process of designing your wreath with an assortment of live plants and dried flowers. Your creation will […]

Inspired by the theme Love, the Garden, local mixologist Beth Dixon demonstrates how to create three delicious love-themed craft cocktails. Bring a special someone and join Beth as she brings the garden to your glass with Bitter Hearts Know Better, Between the Sheets cocktail and a Very Sexy Martini. During the demo, sip samples of […]

This interactive lecture explores medicinal plants to create beneficial oils and salves for a variety of uses. Receive an explanation of the pros and cons of different types of carriers and processes. In this hands-on workshop we will formulate an herbal salve together and each participant will be able to take a container home with […]