Vanilla Fun in the Sun

Vanilla Paradise Nevis proudly participated for the second consecutive year at Nevis's Agri Expo, showcasing our commitment to eco-friendly agriculture as the island's pioneer vanilla farm. We set up our stand amidst the lively array of fresh market garden produce, seedlings, plants, herbs, spices, and agro-processed goods as well as cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, turkeys and decorative peacocks plus horses to ride on. The music and the carnival atmosphere made everyone happy!

Val Ermine Hendrickson, the impressive Patron of the event, was clear when she said: “Use local products because you know where they are coming from”. A lovely lady, she has been in agro-processing, (jams, chutneys, wines and flower arrangements along side her nursing career) for over 40 years.

See what fun we all had in our short video:

From Vine to Vanilla: Showcasing Sustainable Farming Methods

At our stand, the Vanilla Paradise Nevis team introduced visitors to our innovative farming methods. We brought the essence of vanilla to life, showcasing real vanilla plants cultivated in recycled coconut husks and dried mango leaves, exemplifying our commitment to sustainability. By reusing materials and implementing eco-conscious practices, we strive to minimize waste and preserve our precious environment.

Among the crowd favourites, especially with the school children, were our irresistible vanilla cupcakes. Vanilla showed its versatility; we had extract, syrups, sugar, tea and fragrances on display. This year we were able to offer some vanilla orchid plants.

Premier's Surprise

We were honoured to welcome distinguished guests to our stand: Nevis Premier, the Honourable Mark Brantley and the Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Mr Eric Evelyn, who had also recently visited the vanilla farm. We are delighted to be able to count on the support of the Nevis Island Adminsitration in our eco-tourism project.

Inviting Exploration

During the expo, we also extended invitations for free immersive tours of our farm, allowing visitors to discover the art of vanilla cultivation and witness our sustainable practices firsthand.  Find out more here.

Growth and Gratitude

Reflecting on our journey since last year's expo, when our small vanilla vine cuttings were growing in pots, in our founder, Gina Empson's garden sheds, we've made significant progress. There are now three large shade houses, a total of 15,000 sq feet with 1,500 vanilla orchids growing inside!  Vanilla Paradise Nevis has evolved into a thriving hub of vanilla cultivation.

We thank everyone who took the time to come and talk to us and taste and smell vanilla fragrances during Agri Expo 2024. Your enthusiasm and support encourage us to continue to showcase eco-tourism based on local Nevisian vanilla orchids.