Located in McMinnville, Oregon, The Ground is a collection of businesses including dining, lodging, wellness experiences, and more designed to bring people together with farming and food through hospitality. “The Ground’s philosophy of belonging and interconnectedness comes to life through regenerative agriculture, food, accommodations, revitalizing wellness experiences, and engaging programs and events,” says Aly Petit, senior sales manager for The Ground. The organization first began in 2015 with Brenda Smola-Foti’s regenerative agriculture farm, Tabula Rasa, followed by her husband’s involvement in 2019 to expand Tabula Rasa into a fully rounded experience for visitors.
The Ground offers tours of the on-site farms, lodging options focused on connecting guests with nature and agriculture, a restaurant serving locally source cuisine, and now its new Stillwater event space. The Stillwater features 4,000 square feet of indoor function space and 6,000 square feet of outdoor space, all available for gatherings ranging from intimate board meetings to large receptions and dinners. “Its spacious interior, complemented by lush outdoor areas framed with towering lunette windows and warm brick accents, provides a picturesque backdrop suitable for a wide range of events,” adds Petit.
Catering is available through The Ground’s restaurant, Humble Spirit. “The catering menu draws inspiration from the seasons and thoughtfully sourced ingredients through exceptional purveyors in the Willamette Valley and beyond, with a focus on provisioners using sustainable practices like regenerative farming and small-batch craft,” says Petit. Basic audiovisual capabilities are available, and The Ground is close to downtown McMinnville restaurants, boutique shops, and tasting rooms.