The Garden Gathering - Spring Edition 2025
After a morning of soft rain, the clouds parted just in time for the sun to pour across the garden. The scent of roses drifted through the air as the first guests arrived at two o’clock, greeted by bunting swaying gently in the breeze and the sound of laughter floating across the lawn.
The Garden Gathering was created as a space to slow down. A little pocket of time to connect, create, and simply be. I wanted women to have an afternoon without agenda, where beauty and creativity could gently lead the way.
The Decadent Spread
The food was inspired by spring florals. I was in my happy space all week creating colourful focaccia art, herb butter wrapped in edible flowers, and platters dotted with petals! And then there was Meerie Bakes’ dessert table, which truly stole the show. Every bite looked like a work of art (and disappeared just as quickly!).
It’s the small details that bring me the most joy. The extra little touches to make sure each guest feels thought of and appreciated. The flowers scattered on the tables, the jasmine trailing around the glasses, the floral teacups and freshly made strawberry cordial.
The Garden Market: A Celebration of Local Makers
Inside, The Garden Market buzzed with joy and sweet scents. Local makers filled the space with beautiful products; Pascal Rose Jewellery, Thiana Sperry Art, Lorna & Lila, and Kwean & Co Perfume Oils, amongst other products by Rose Cottage and my new memoir The Garden I Became. It was so lovely seeing women wander through, chatting to the creators and taking home little treasures and bouquets made from blooms gathered here at Rose Cottage.
A Place to Pause and Create
One of my favourite spaces was the watercolour zone set up in the studio. Different options to assist even the most novice artist, brushes resting in glass jars, and women sitting shoulder to shoulder as they painted. It was a quiet space to retreat, unhurried, and full of calm conversation. Watching everyone lean into that moment of stillness was something really special.
How it made me Reflect
By the end of the afternoon, I was exhausted, but in the very best way. My legs ached, my head was tired, but my heart felt so full it could burst. Hosting events like this in my home, styling every corner, and watching women connect fills me with deep gratitude. Beauty multiplies when it is shared, and I truly received so much from everyone who came through our garden and home.
The Garden Gathering reminded me how much we all need spaces to slow down and reconnect, not just with each other, but with ourselves. My hope is that every woman who came left feeling refreshed, inspired, and reminded to make time for small moments of beauty in her own week.
What’s Next
The next Garden Gathering will be on the 14th of March 2026 and I’m already dreaming of an Amalfi Coast theme. Think citrus, blue tones, and pops of deep pinks for an afternoon filled with that same heart of connection and creativity!
If you’d love to join us next time, get your ticket here! I can’t wait to open the garden gates again. 🌿
Photography by Kate McAllister Photography