An evening for those wishing to step away from their screens and into something far more nourishing.
Tales from the Apothecary is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with nature, and spend a summer evening enjoying stories, laughter, and plant-centered tradition. Whether you come with a friend or make one here, this gathering is about community, curiosity, and reclaiming our time for simple joys like tea, conversation, and the magic of being present.
We'll leave the Texas heat at the door, gather inside, and settle in for a workshop where old plant stories come to life.
Join us for Tales from the Apothecary, a cozy two-hour exploration of herbal folklore, symbolism, and the many ways plants have been woven into cultural traditions across the world for ritual, protection, celebration, and even a bit of mischief.
As the warm summer evening settles over the garden (with fans on hand to help with the Texas heat and keep the bugs at bay), we'll sip tea made from herbs growing steps away and dive into tales like:
Why Greek scholars wore rosemary garlands
Why was lemon balm planted near doorways
What the ancient Romans believed about basil
Which herbs were thought to offer comfort, protection, or invite connection
And which plants were rumored to open the door between the waking world and the world of dreams
And so much more...
You'll also create your own dream satchel filled with freshly harvested herbs from the garden, including mugwort, rosemary, rose, lavender, and other botanicals chosen with intention, tradition, and a sprinkle of garden inspiration.
This event is open to anyone 18 and up who's curious about the history of herbal traditions, whether you're brand new to plants or someone who's always felt drawn to the natural world.
✨ Space is limited to keep things intimate. Come ready to sip, listen, create, and wander into the wonder of herbal folklore.
Details:
📍 Location: Wild Thistle Herbs & Alchemy
🗓️ DATE: July 9, 2026
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
💲 Fee: $22 (includes all materials)
👥 Space is limited to 18+
Pre-registration is required to reserve your spot.
Your Host
Michelle Spalding is a clinical herbalist and holistic health coach with over 1,800 hours of formal training in Western herbalism, vitalist philosophy, and holistic coaching. She is a lifelong plant lover and the founder of Wild Thistle Herbs and Alchemy in Waco, Texas.
Michelle brings a warm, down-to-earth approach to everything she teaches. She believes herbalism does not have to be complicated or intimidating. A cup of tea, a little plant knowledge, and a room full of curious people is honestly one of her favorite things.
Her workshops are beginner-friendly, hands-on, and grounded in the idea that plants are for everyone. Whether you leave with a new skill, a deeper curiosity, or simply a better afternoon than you expected, that is a good day.
Michelle is a proud member of the American Herbalists Guild, Herbalists Without Borders, and the Flower Essence Society. She offers herbal consultations and holistic coaching both in person in Waco and via video for clients nationwide.