Gathering at Gather

Some vocations still encourage apprenticeships and becoming an herbalist is one of them. Herbalist Sarah Berkman came by her first apprenticeship quite naturally—her grandmother raised vegetables and herbs and possessed an immense knowledge about their uses in promoting health. After much self-study, Berkman apprenticed herself more officially to author and herbalist Kathi Keville and then spent five years at the California School of Herbal Studies. When she came home to Newport, she opened an herb shop/tea bar/clinic and called it Gather, referring to gathering herbs but also gathering in people and forming a community. It’s no wonder Gather has become a neighborhood hub. It’s a comfortable spot, with sofas, an easy chair, a piano and a small “tea bar,” where Berkman will brew up an herbal infusion from 150 to 200 different herbs—agrimony to yerba santa—based on what you tell her you might need or like, perhaps something soothing digestively or something calming, if you’re feeling frazzled. She has tinctures, herbal extracts and essential oils for sale, a few from her own “wild-crafted” or homegrown herbs. She hosts events related to holistic health and wellness several times a month.

312 Broadway, Newport. 401.314.4014; GatherHerbs.com