*****

Having been invited by a friend to join her on an Indigo workshop in the south of France, I had no idea what to expect. The experience far exceeded any expectations. Caroline Harper is a gracious, talented workshop leader who imparted both her knowledge and her passion for working with Indigo, making the workshop proper into a fun, informative learning experience. Her workshop was rounded out by including a local expert in another dying technique, Woad: Denise Lambert added depth and fuller understanding of what working with other natural dyes entailed. Further, creating a retreat experience, Caroline included a wine tasting at a lovely local bio winery, a visit to Carcassonne which was thoughtfully scheduled to include the evening of the national Festival du Music in France, a yoga class in the fabulous barn space at the truly lovely manor house where the workshop was housed. Caroline's choice of location offered added charm and relaxation, embellishing the workshop. The accommodations are luxurious and the food was absolutely delicious, served always in a most beautiful and artistic way. The staff at La Belle Eco went overboard to make all of us not only comfortable, but feel at home and pampered. The grounds, gardens and buildings are spectacular and the wood-heated hot tub was a treat. I hope to return next year and already have friends who plan to join me. Thank you for a truly memorable, wonderful experience! - Julie G.

*****

This experience highlights one of the lost treasures of South Carolina: Indigo. Caroline does a great job at telling its story, telling you about her crops and showing you the different techniques. Before letting you dive in (literally...there are multiple baths involved) and dye the item of your choice, she explains to you her process with multiple tips on the way. Caroline is very knowledgeable on the subject and will answer any question gracefully. It was a wonderful afternoon during which we learned a lot and reacquainted ourselves with a bit of the lowcountry history. If you are lucky, you may even see the mascot Jack the orange cat. Thank you.
Caroline P. Mt. Pleasant SC