Mad Lavender Farm: Where Art, Nature and Community Blossom Together

Tucked into the rolling landscape of Hunterdon County, Mad Lavender Farm is more than a destination—it’s an experience. Founded in 2014 by artists-turned-farmers Adrienne Crombie and Don Dalen, the farm is a living canvas where creativity, sustainability and connection to the earth come vividly to life. 

What began as a pivot during the 2008 economic downturn has grown into a beloved community hub. After years in the interior design and decorative arts world—creating murals, Venetian plaster finishes and custom installations—the couple found themselves drawn to a quieter, more grounded life. Gardening for sustenance soon evolved into a deeper calling when they took stewardship of Adrienne’s family’s 10-acre property. Faced with challenges like deer-damaged crops, they discovered lavender—resilient, aromatic and rich with healing properties—and built their vision from there. 

Today, Mad Lavender Farm is a testament to imagination and perseverance. Visitors stepping onto the property are immediately immersed in a whimsical, artfully designed environment. Inspired by gypsy caravans and storybook charm, the farm features hand-built structures like a Barcelona Art Nouveau-style chicken coop, a mural-adorned “medicine wagon” shop, and a flower-covered geodesic dome. At the heart of it all is a spacious pavilion—complete with a handcrafted chandelier—where workshops, gatherings and celebrations unfold in a magical, open-air setting. 

While the visual beauty draws people in, it’s the feeling of peace that keeps them coming back. Crombie and Dalen have intentionally cultivated a space that offers respite from the fast pace of modern life. Guests are invited to slow down, reconnect with nature and engage their senses—whether through strolling the lavender fields, enjoying a picnic by the waterfall or participating in one of the farm’s many hands-on workshops. 

Workshops are a cornerstone of the Mad Lavender experience. From watercolor painting and herbal crafting to lavender wreath-making and the timeless art of weaving lavender wands, each class encourages creativity while celebrating the natural world. Seasonal offerings shift with the bloom cycles, with peak lavender season running from early June through early July. During this time, visitors can enjoy “Pick Your Own Lavender” mornings and immerse themselves in the full sensory delight of the fields in bloom. A second, more subtle bloom extends the experience into late summer and early fall. 

One of the farm’s most unexpected and popular offerings is goat yoga. What began as a spontaneous idea quickly blossomed into a signature attraction. Nigerian Dwarf goats—originally brought to the farm simply for joy—now play a starring role in these lighthearted, laughter-filled sessions. The combination of yoga, nature and playful animals creates an experience that appeals to seasoned practitioners and curious newcomers alike.

Beyond its offerings, Mad Lavender Farm is deeply rooted in sustainability and education. The farm operates organically, with no pesticides or toxins used, and includes an herb garden that supports the creation of custom herbal teas and wellness products. Many workshops focus on herbal remedies and natural living practices, empowering visitors to bring a bit of the farm’s philosophy into their own lives. 

Community is at the heart of everything Crombie and Dalen do. Their vision has always extended beyond farming to fostering connection—between people, nature and shared values. The farm regularly hosts gatherings that bring together artists, yogis, herbalists and wellness enthusiasts, creating a vibrant, collaborative environment. Visitors often remark on the sense of belonging they feel, whether attending a workshop, celebrating a milestone or simply spending a quiet afternoon on the grounds. 

Mad Lavender Farm is also an active participant in regional agricultural tourism, proudly part of the Hunterdon 579 Trail—a network of local farms working together to support sustainable agriculture and community engagement. Their collaborative spirit reflects a broader commitment to stewardship, not only of the land but of the relationships that sustain it. 

Looking ahead, the founders are exploring ways to expand the farm’s offerings, potentially including overnight stays and immersive retreat experiences. As always, their approach remains guided by creativity, authenticity and a deep respect for nature.

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Mad Lavender Farm is its simplicity. In a world driven by technology and constant stimulation, the farm offers something refreshingly timeless: the chance to breathe deeply, feel the earth beneath your feet and rediscover the quiet joy of being present. Visitors often leave with more than just lavender—they carry with them a renewed sense of calm, inspiration and connection.