Homegrown: The Heartwarming Story of Herbs & Spice Greenhouse

Post by Lauren

Discover Herbs & Spice Greenhouse, a family-run haven near Grande Prairie, Alberta. Explore vibrant flowers, unique gifts, and check back in the winter for the “Everything Nice” Christmas Market!

Nestled along Highway 43 between Grande Prairie and Wembley, Alberta, lies a hidden gem that has been nurturing both plants and family bonds for over a decade. Herbs & Spice Greenhouse is more than just a place to buy flowers—it’s a testament to the power of family, community, and a shared love for all things green.

The journey of Herbs & Spice began in 2011, when three close friends, bound with family ties and a shared passion for plants, opened a modest greenhouse and a single building. Their vision quickly took root, blossoming into a beloved local staple. By 2013, they expanded, adding a larger greenhouse and a cozy gift shop, which is now home to treasures from over 40 small local and Canadian businesses. In 2023, the next generation stepped in, as the daughters and daughters-in-law purchased the business to carry on the legacy.

Family is the heartbeat of Herbs & Spice. Children grow up among the aisles, learning to pot plants or simply playing in the dirt, their laughter blending with the scent of blooming flowers to create an atmosphere that’s as warm as it is welcoming.

Stepping inside Herbs & Spice Greenhouse is like entering a living, breathing wonderland. Vibrant blooms catch your eye at every turn, while the gift shop offers a curated collection of unique finds. For me, it’s a nostalgic escape. The candy canes by the door transport me back to trips to our local museum, and the “Simpkins” mints remind me of rides in my mom’s old Pontiac, the tin rattling in the glovebox. Recently, I spotted a planter shaped like two large feet, brimming with fragrant herbs—it felt as though it was a whimsical nod to The Troll in Central Park, one of my favorite childhood movies. And the pot sticks? They’re little comedians, sporting quotes like “my next victim” that hit home for anyone (like me) whose green thumb is still more hope than reality.

Once you’ve wandered through the gift shop’s charms, the real magic unfolds in the greenhouse itself. The air hangs thick with the sweet, earthy scent of fresh flowers, and a kaleidoscope of colors—purples, pinks, greens—blends into a living masterpiece. Herbs & Spice boasts an impressive lineup of healthy flowers and perennials, all tailored to thrive in the Prairie climate. And for all the fresh-food lovers and aspiring chefs, one entire greenhouse is dedicated solely to herbs and vegetables—boasting the largest selection in the Peace Country. Whether you’re growing your own mint for summer cocktails or dreaming of homemade pesto, there’s a fresh, fragrant option waiting for you.

If you’ve yet to bask in the glow of their “Everything Nice Christmas Market,” let this be your nudge to make it a holiday must-do. Experiencing the greenhouse during holiday season, is a new holiday tradition worth starting. Imagine crisp white snowfall, a steaming holiday drink warming your hands, and shopping alongside loved ones, ticking off gifts for everyone on your list—all while supporting small local businesses from across Canada. It truly is a wonderful way to start off the holiday season with magic and meaning.

At Herbs & Spice Greenhouse, they’ve created a beautiful space where time seems to slow down. You can feel the love and care poured into this little local gem the moment you walk through the door. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect perennial, a quirky gift, a nostalgic escape, or simply out for a sunny Sunday drive with the family, there’s something here for everyone. Be sure to bring the kids—they’ll love the sandbox (and maybe a little treat!). Come experience the magic yourself. If you haven’t visited yet- consider this your sign! Plan a trip, follow them on social media, and experience the charm for yourself.