Dr. Henry Cabrera is a distinguished anesthesiologist and the visionary founder of Lavender Waves Farm, where he has seamlessly combined two distinct careers into a fulfilling and harmonious lifestyle. With decades of experience in the medical field and a deep passion for lavender farming, Cabrera has transformed his farm into a unique destination. His story proves that seemingly unrelated interests can thrive side by side, offering valuable lessons in resilience and innovation.
In this interview, we explore Cabrera’s journey, discussing the challenges and successes he’s encountered in both his medical career and his farm ownership. His narrative is one of perseverance, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to excellence.
The Creation of Lavender Waves Farm
What inspired you to start Lavender Waves Farm, and how did you bring your vision to life?
Initially, I wanted a farm simply as a hobby—a place to relax. But I quickly thought about how I could turn that into a business. Lavender came to mind as a viable option, so I bought the property and began building the infrastructure. I added electricity and water to the barn and field, constructed a gazebo and an Airbnb, and started preparing the land for planting lavender. Over the past four years, I’ve grown the lavender field, acquired animals, and launched events like “Cut Your Own Lavender.” I’m also exploring the possibility of hosting weddings on the farm.
What makes Lavender Waves Farm unique compared to other farms?
The most distinctive feature is the circular arrangement of the lavender rows. Additionally, we have the largest collection of camels in Rhode Island six in total, five of which are housed on our farm. This is quite rare, as there are only a handful of privately-owned camels in the state.
Balancing Medicine and Farming
How has your medical background influenced your approach to farming?
My medical training has been incredibly helpful, particularly when it comes to caring for the animals. I’ve been able to handle more than the average farmer in terms of animal health. I’ve saved several animals’ lives and responded to veterinary emergencies on the farm, which has proven invaluable.
How do you manage your time between being a doctor and running Lavender Waves Farm?
Balancing both roles is challenging because they’re both full-time commitments. I recently stepped down as Chief of Anesthesiology after 12 years, transitioning to per diem work at the hospital. This change allows me to keep regular hours and avoid being on-call, which has helped me better manage my time. Still, it’s a demanding balancing act.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing New Approaches
What were some of the early challenges you faced when developing the farm, and how did you overcome them?
One major setback was losing the first 500 lavender plants I planted. It was discouraging, but I learned from the experience and tried again. Additionally, there were some challenges with animal living arrangements, leading me to sell some animals while keeping others. Getting town approval for events was another hurdle, but I’m close to resolving it.
What core values guide the operations and mission of Lavender Waves Farm?
I aim to provide a luxuriously rustic farm experience. The farm is designed to be clean, relaxing, and high-end while still offering a cozy, rustic atmosphere. I take pride in having unique animals such as gold-laced Brahma chickens and camels—that set the farm apart and make it special for visitors.
Promoting Health and Well-being
What role does lavender play in promoting health and well-being, and how do you share its benefits with visitors?
Lavender is widely known for its relaxing properties, which is one of the main reasons it’s so popular. I often share with visitors how to cut the flowers and offer creative ideas for using them. The primary benefits people enjoy are improved sleep and relaxation.
What does the phrase “farm-to-table” mean to you, and how is it reflected at Lavender Waves Farm?
To me, “farm-to-table” means that food is sourced directly from the farm, or in a way that its journey is easily traceable. I love incorporating lavender into culinary experiences and offer a lavender-themed dinner with a private chef, which has been quite popular among guests.
Looking Toward the Future
What is your favorite part of running a lavender farm?
My favorite part is seeing the expression on visitors’ faces when they first enter the field and discover its beauty. The moment is so genuine and magical, and I even wish I could capture those reactions on camera they’re priceless.
Dr. Henry Cabrera’s story is a remarkable example of passion and dedication. His ability to blend his medical expertise with his love for farming demonstrates that success doesn’t require choosing just one path but rather embracing all your interests and finding ways to make them work together. As he looks ahead, Cabrera is excited to expand the offerings at Lavender Waves Farm and integrate his medical knowledge further into the farm experience. His vision is to create a holistic environment where visitors not only enjoy the beauty of lavender and unique animals but also learn about health and wellness, enriching their minds, bodies, and spirits.