Riverside Lavender Farm

A Sweet Scented Sojourn

The aroma of the lavender enveloped me the moment I stepped out of my car. It was a picture perfect summer day and I was visiting the Riverside Lavender Farm along with members of the Gorham Garden Club for an afternoon picnic and lavender wreath making class. The second week of July is when lavender hits its peak beauty before being harvested. The weather was sunny and warm, our hosts, Tammy and Mark were gracious, the fields of lavender were calming to all the senses and the company of fellow gardeners was, as always, delightful. We were served ice cold lavender infused lemonade with nasturtium blossoms and fresh mint. It was so relaxing to be sipping our lemonade along the shore of the Saco River while partaking of our picnic meal. Although we were encouraged to cool down in the water, none of us were ready to don a one piece and dive in. Perhaps for another visit.

Riverside Lavender Farm, is privately owned and operated by Retired Master Gunnery Sergeant Mark Braun and his wife Tammy. They are both a wealth of information on the successful growing of lavender and so easy to chat with. Tammy’s smile and easy manner made it feel more like you were talking with an old friend then a new acquaintance. The farm offers wreath making classes, onsite “glamping” opportunities, princess themed lemonade and lavender cookie parties, and playtime with farm favorites, the Nigerian dwarf goat herd.

A sign on the front gate proudly states “Maine Grown by VETS” and on the front of the barn is the silhouette honoring a fallen soldier, both a reminder of owner Mark’s service to our country. He and his service dog Wiggy, a proud German Shepherd, welcome other veterans for cookouts and other events at the farm and along the river.

I left with a wreath and a much needed sense of calmness. I look forward to my next visit.