Dr. Henry Cabrera’s Labor of Love – Lavender Waves Farm
Expansive. Calming. Breathtaking. Lavender Waves Farm represents Dr. Henry Cabrera’s dream of cultivating lavender and sharing its beauty with the community. Nestled in Rhode Island, this charming 14-acre property once thrived as Gatewood Farms, a historic landmark. During the 1940s, families visited to purchase agricultural goods from its store amid rolling green pastures. The farm was home to cows and pigs, and an old sign reading “Gatewood Farm—Bacon and Sausage” still hangs in the barn, honoring its rich history.
Farming, however, is challenging. Over time, the Gatewood family had to sell parts of the land to sustain their operations. Eventually, they moved away, and ownership changed hands several times until 2016, when Dr. Cabrera acquired the property. His vision for restoring the farm began with modernizing the water system, adding electricity to the barn, and building stables, dutch doors, and a poultry area. Grazing pastures were also introduced for sheep, alpacas, llamas, camels, and donkeys. Amid the renovations, Dr. Henry Cabrera laid the foundation for his lavender farm.
In 2017, he installed a custom-built gazebo at the heart of the lavender field. By 2018, the first circle of lavender was planted, followed by a second circle in 2019. Today, over 4,000 lavender plants of 10 varieties flourish on the farm. Opened to the public in 2020, Lavender Waves Farm quickly became a beloved destination for its serene beauty and welcoming atmosphere.
Lavender Waves Farm Operations
While Dr. Cabrera is an anesthesiologist by profession, he dedicates his free time to maintaining the farm’s operations. Depending on the season, three to ten employees help care for the livestock and lavender plants. Cabrera notes that while the farm slows down in winter, daily chores like feeding and cleaning the animals remain essential. “It’s slower in the winter, but the farm never stops living,” he shares.
Lavender plants are pruned in spring, with blooms peaking in June and a second round in October. Paid workers assist with harvests, while volunteers from the Kingston Hill Garden Club lend a hand as needed.
Lavender Waves Farm Livestock
One of the farm’s unique attractions is its camels, which draw many visitors. Lavender Waves Farm is home to Jack and Bingham, 15-year-old Dromedary camels, and Humphrey, a three-year-old camel. “At Lavender Waves Farm, we are lucky enough to have three out of the five privately held [Rhode Island] camels,” Cabrera explains. These majestic creatures add a magical touch to the farm’s ambiance and are a hit at special events.
The Lavender Waves Experience
The farm’s tranquil beauty captivates approximately 2,500 visitors annually. Cabrera takes pride in its well-maintained grounds, noting favorites like the winding entrance path and the charming wagon. Guests can also stay at a rustic Airbnb on the property, designed as a luxurious retreat. Featuring reclaimed wood, rustic stone tiles, and Estonian amethyst geode sinks, the suite offers breathtaking views of the lavender fields. Its exclusivity ensures an intimate, relaxing experience, with access to the farm’s gazebo and other features.
Nearby towns such as Westerly, Charlestown, Narragansett, and Newport provide additional attractions and lodging options, while Foxwoods Casino and Mohegan Sun are just a short drive away.
Lavender Waves Weddings & Memberships
The farm is also a wedding venue, offering couples a stunning backdrop for their ceremonies and receptions. Members gain exclusive access to the farm’s gardens and animals, along with opportunities to purchase large quantities of lavender and reserve private time on the property.
Photographer Lynne praised the venue:
“As a wedding photographer, Lavender Waves Farm was such a dreamy venue. It is the perfect combination of rustic and charming, and the animals and views can’t be beat! The buildings and grounds were impeccable and my clients had the perfect day. If you’re looking for a unique and charming location for your wedding, this is the spot!”
Lavender Waves Farm: A Labor of Love
Rooted in history, Lavender Waves Farm connects its past and present. In 2020, the granddaughter of the original owners revisited her family’s former land, marveling at its transformation. The farm’s design reflects Cabrera’s goal of creating a sanctuary of beauty, peace, and luxury for visitors.
“The unique design of the farm was done to create a special place of beauty, peace, and luxury for visitors,” the official website reads. “By being able to sell the lavender as well as offer the opportunity for a limited number of guests to visit the farm, they will experience a working farm and have the ability for the community to have a place of gathering amongst the rolling waves of lavender.”
Lavender Waves Farm remains a testament to Cabrera’s vision and dedication, offering visitors a calming retreat from the bustle of daily life. With continued community support, this labor of love will remain a cherished destination for years to come.