This summer, we had the absolute pleasure of hosting the Gathering Place team for a one-day retreat on our land on Cortes Island ~ the place where it all began. Before there were bulk bins and barcodes, warehouses and distributors, there was this land and a small dream rooted in simplicity, sustainability, and connection.
We started Gathering Place by growing herbs right here on the farm. Some of our very first products came from our gardens, planted, harvested, and packaged by hand. While the farm is no longer our main source of ingredients, we still grow a few herbs here, and it remains a deeply special place in our hearts.
Our home on Cortes is a passion project, a quiet and nourishing space that keeps us grounded. Sharing it with the team was a powerful reminder of why we started this journey and the people who help carry it forward today.
We are endlessly grateful for our team ~ their commitment, creativity, and heart. They feel like extended family, and this day was a chance to celebrate that bond.
Together, we walked the forest trails, toured the farm, visited the herb beds, and shared stories from the early days: the trial and error, the small wins, and the deep intention behind every choice we made. We prepared and enjoyed a beautiful farm-to-table meal, sat in circle for a guided meditation, and practised simple breathing exercises under the trees.
There was laughter, reflection, and the quiet joy of just being present.
And of course, we cooled off with tall glasses of homemade Rooibos iced tea, one of our team’s favourite summer rituals.
Because sometimes all it takes is a moment of stillness and a good cup of tea to reconnect with what matters most.
Hosting the team here reminded us that Gathering Place has always been more than a company. It’s a community of people who care deeply about the land, the process, and each other.
We ended the day feeling inspired, rooted, and full of gratitude. We hope this little story, and perhaps a sip of iced Rooibos tea, brings some of that feeling to you too.
With love and gratitude,
Lovena & Ryan
Gathering Place Trading