Portraits for Peace: A Mindful Walk in the Woods

Put simply, this is a mindful forest walk and whimsical portrait experience in support of Gaza relief efforts.

We'll walk together as a group along the trail in the woods, and you'll be guided through mindfulness exercises, simple breathing techniques, and gentle standing yoga (no experience necessary).

Each participant will have the opportunity to have a personal outdoor portrait taken by professional photographer Lindee Gallant. Choose your timeslot when registering: either before or after the hike.

If you choose the pre-hike portrait, please arrive at 1:30pm to allow for plenty of time before we begin our walk in the woods.

If you choose the post-hike portrait, these photos will be taken after our hike around 3:30pm + beyond. Feel free to arrive at 1:45pm or earlier.

Please be patient and flexible with your time as there will be other participants having their photos taken during these sessions, too!

Each ticket includes participation for one person + one portrait. If you’d like to share your shoot with a partner, a friend, or a family member, that’s totally welcome - it’ll simply count as your included photo!

Please note that everything offered is optional and whenever your photo session is done, you're free to leave whenever you like, or stay to explore the area.

You're also invited to dress up! To add a touch of magic and to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit, we invite you to dress in something whimsical or fairytale-inspired: flowing fabrics, soft tones, a hint of sparkle or earthiness. Something that makes you feel magical or ethereal. Not a costume, but an expression of imagination and a reflection of renewal. Let your outfit reflect what peace feels like to you. What lightness and hope feels like to you.

All proceeds from this event will go directly toward supporting humanitarian aid for Gaza. Your $40 ticket serves as your donation, which includes access to the event and your professional portrait. If you’re in a position to offer more, we’ve added additional donation options. To do this, simply add your portrait time to your cart, then add your chosen donation amount as well.

Have more questions? Get in touch via our socials or via email.

What you'll need:

• water

• weather-appropriate clothing & comfortable footwear

Click here for a full suggested packing list for general outdoor events.

Please note that there is a public porta-potty at this location, and there are also some outdoor toilets in Bonshaw Provincial Park (a few minutes down the road), plus the gas station in New Haven!

Optional dress-up element: To add a touch of magic and to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit, we invite you to dress in something whimsical or fairytale-inspired: flowing fabrics, soft tones, a hint of sparkle or earthiness. Something that makes you feel magical or ethereal. Not a costume, but an expression of imagination and a reflection of renewal. Let your outfit reflect what peace feels like to you. What lightness and hope feels like to you.

This gathering is intended as a quiet, reflective, yet immersive experience - best suited for adults and older children. Families are welcome! We simply ask that all participants engage in the spirit of mindfulness and gentle presence. And yes - this also applies to your leashed furry friends!

The location: Strathgarney is a beautiful and well-maintained system of trails and is rated *moderate* difficulty. You can read more about the location here!

Please note that there is a public porta-potty at this location, and there are also some outdoor toilets in Bonshaw Provincial Park (a few minutes down the road), plus the gas station in New Haven!

If you have any concerns or questions, please reach out prior to registration, we'd be happy to answer your questions!

Please provide 3 days (72 hours) notice for cancellation via email. Cancellations made after this window are non-refundable, but you are welcome to transfer your ticket to a friend if you cannot attend.

Please note that if you need to swap your portrait time, this can only be done up to 3 days in advance and is subject to availability. After this window, or if you arrive late or need to leave early and miss your time slot, we unfortunately cannot guarantee space for your photo.

We understand plans change. Ticket sales support the cause, so if you are unable to attend and a refund isn’t possible, know that your contribution still makes an impact.

This event will go ahead rain or shine, within reason. If the event is fully cancelled due to weather, all registered participants are eligible for a full refund and will be contacted via their registration email to confirm whether they would like a refund or would prefer that we continue the transfer of their full donation on their behalf.

By registering for this event, you are agreeing to these policies.