Workshops & Classes

Step into the world of traditional skills and botanical creativity at R&J Riverbrook Farm, nestled in Oregon’s beautiful Chehalem Valley.

Our small, hands-on workshops offer an opportunity to slow down, learn something new, and create with ingredients inspired by the plants we grow and tend here in the sanctuary. Whether you’re gathering with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or adding a memorable experience to your visit to Oregon wine country, you’re warmly invited.

How does it work?

Simply choose the workshop that interests you and complete the Workshop Sign Up Form below. Share your preferred days and times, or a specific date you have in mind. We’ll contact you to arrange your visit. Payment is collected the day of your workshop.

All workshops are offered by appointment in a small, personal setting at our farm and home in Newberg, Oregon.


PLANT EXTRACTION WORKSHOp

Join me for a hands-on exploration of the art and science of plant extraction. In this workshop, we’ll explore several traditional methods used to draw the beneficial constituents from plants and transform them into herbal preparations.

Different plant compounds require different menstrums—the liquids used to extract them—depending on the remedy we wish to create. Water is perhaps the most familiar extraction method, used to make teas and infusions. Vinegar is especially effective for drawing out minerals, while alcohol extracts resins and many other medicinal constituents. Glycerites offer a naturally sweet option and are often preferred for children or for those who prefer to avoid alcohol. Oil extractions can be used to create salves, lip balms, body butters, lotions, and even herbal soaps.

While herbal knowledge is a lifelong practice, this workshop offers a practical introduction to the foundations of plant extraction and the reasoning behind choosing one method over another.

During our time together, we will create an alcohol-based extract using plant material growing on our botanical sanctuary farm. If alcohol is not an option for you, a glycerite or oil extraction can easily be substituted—simply let me know when booking.

All materials are provided, and each participant will leave with their own handcrafted plant extract. Herbal tea will also be available to enjoy and sample during the workshop.

Details

• Small group setting (minimum of 2 participants, maximum of 6)

• $59 per person

• $75 per person for a private session

• Approximately 2 hours

Questions? Please feel free to reach out—I’m happy to help.

Soap Making Workshop

$150.00

Join me in my farm kitchen for a hands-on introduction to the art of cold process soap making. In this supervised workshop, you’ll create your own batch of nourishing goat milk soap from scratch, using approximately 34 ounces of oils to produce about 42 ounces of fresh soap.

We’ll begin with a brief overview of lye safety and the fundamentals of cold process soap making. You’ll learn how to use lye and fragrance calculators. understand saponification values, and explore how natural colorants, essential oils and botanicals can be used to customize your bars.

Once we’ve covered the basics, you’ll select your essential oil blend, colorants, and botanicals, then begin crafting your own batch of soap.

All ingredients and materials are provided except your mold and apron. After class, you’ll take your freshly made soap home to cut into bars and cure. In 4-6 weeks, your soap will be ready to use or share as homemade gifts.

Learning to make your own soap is a creative, practical skill that allows you to craft beautiful, natural bars for yourself, your family, and friends.

Workshop Details:

  • Approximately 2 hours

  • Held in my farm kitchen

  • Includes all ingredients and soap-making supplies (except mold and apron)

    Please Bring:

  • A soap loaf mold (a link will be emailed after registration)

  • An apron

  • Long sleeves, long pants and closed toe shoes

  • A cardboard box to transport your soap home

    This workshop is a wonderful activity to share with one or two friends or to book as a private session. Groups of three or more participants may add an additional soap batch for $75

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.