By Susan Fagan
(November 8, 2024) — John Ostering, a woodworker, landscaper and designer, began the job of restoring the Sundial Tea Garden in Higganum this year. His vision is to construct a naturally beautiful and serene setting for weddings, showers, reunions, photo shoots, workshops and dinners. He, along with his chef Jennifer Parkinson, owner of Café Laurel in Killingworth, and event planner Tarren Bailey, intend to open for Easter festivities in 2025.
The Sundial Tea Garden was created in the 1970’s on the site of the David Burr Homestead, built in 1811. Ragna Tischler Goddard and her husband Tom restored the Homestead and constructed an event space unique to the area. The Sundial Tea Garden was known and revered for its homegrown herbal teas and pastries and its robust gardens. After many years of successfully serving the area, it closed its doors in 2017. The property was left unattended for six years, leaving the gardens and buildings to deteriorate.
When restoration is completed, Ostering will open the venue as “Hidden Lake Gardens,” which can be found at 59 Hidden Lake Road in Higganum. Its farmhouse-chic design, brick pathways and fountains provide a picturesque vista everywhere around the property. Visitors can expect to see and smell an array of seasonal roses during their stay. Contact Hidden Lake Gardens for details at 201-528-3087. A Hidden Lake Gardens website was under construction at the time of this printing.
Photo by Susan Fagan
