Join us this week as we dive deep into the fragrant fields of Sequim, Washington, with a local legend: Kelly Iriye, the Director of the Sequim Lavender Festival. Known as “America’s Lavender Festival,” this beloved annual event draws visitors from all over the world to celebrate the region’s world-class lavender farms.

In this episode, we explore:

Kelly’s Journey: how passion, purpose, and purple blooms shaped her path.

Festival Evolution: How the festival has grown since inception, including its origins, significant milestones, and creative pivots during challenging times.

Community & Culture: Hear about the collaborative spirit that defines Sequim—the bond between regional growers, artisans, musicians, and visitors.

Festival Highlights: Insider tips on the must-see experiences—lavender farm tours, essential-oil workshops, live music, culinary delights, artisanal crafts, and family-friendly activities.

Future Vision: What’s next for the festival? Kelly shares upcoming trends, new initiatives, and ways people can connect year-round—not just in July.

Whether you’re a lavender aficionado or simply curious about what makes Sequim shine in purple, this episode is full of aromatic insights, colorful stories, and blooming inspiration.

Perfect for:

Gardening enthusiasts and small-scale farmers

Festival lovers and event planners

Travelers seeking unique local experiences

Anyone who enjoys heartfelt conversations rooted in community and place

Tune in now to experience the scent, spirit, and stories behind the Sequim Lavender Festival with someone who knows it best!

https://www.youtube.com/@RainShadowLiving

https://ginnyerickson.withwre.com/

https://www.newamericanfunding.com/mortgage-loans/trishcole

🌤️ Why does Sequim stay dry when the rest of Washington gets soaked? The answer lies in a fascinating weather phenomenon called the Olympic Rain Shadow—and Senior Meteorologist Rich Marriott is here to explain it!

Join us for an episode of Rainshadow Living: Your Guide to Port Townsend, Sequim and Beyond, where Rich shares his expert insights on how the Olympic Mountains shape the climate of the peninsula—and why it matters to residents, homebuyers, and weather geeks alike!

🌲 Learn how geography, air pressure, and mountain ranges combine to create one of the most unique microclimates in the Pacific Northwest.

☁️ If you’ve ever wondered why there are blue skies over Sequim while the forecast elsewhere calls for rain, or how wildfires and climate change are impacting life in the PNW—this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.

📅 Full episode drops Friday, June 2nd on Rainshadow Living—don’t miss it!

🔔 Be sure to subscribe and turn on notifications so you catch the full conversation with Rich Marriott as soon as it’s live!

https://www.youtube.com/@RainShadowLiving

https://ginnyerickson.withwre.com/

https://www.newamericanfunding.com/mortgage-loans/trishcole

Thinking about moving to Port Townsend, Sequim, or the Olympic Peninsula? Join local experts as we introduce Rainshadow Living, your inside guide to real estate, community life, local businesses, events, and outdoor living in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're planning a move, already live here, or simply love this beautiful corner of Washington, this podcast is your go-to for life in the rain shadow.

https://www.youtube.com/@RainShadowLiving

https://ginnyerickson.withwre.com/

https://www.newamericanfunding.com/mortgage-loans/trishcole