At Back to Basics: Urban Homesteading, our mission is to
empower individuals and families to reclaim self-
sufficiency by teaching practical, old-world skills adapted
for modern urban living. We are dedicated to fostering a
culture of self-reliance, all-natural living, and confidence in
the ability to grow, create, and sustain a thriving,
independent lifestyle—no matter the size of your space.
Through hands-on learning and a supportive community,
we aim to inspire a return to simplicity, resilience, and a
deeper connection to the essentials of life.
Urban Homesteading Workshops
Natural Household and
Body Products
Edible & Medicinal
Plants
Classic Baking
Cheese & Butter
Beneficial Yeasts
Preservation
Garden Planning
Livestock Care &
Butchering
Aromatherapy
Fridge & Pantry Staples
- 4/2/25- Nut Butters from Scratch Workshop
4/3/25- All Natural Laundry Scent Booster Workshop
4/5/25- Cream Cheese from Scratch Workshop
4/9/25- Egg Candles Workshop
4/14/25- Kids’ Workshop: Plant Dyed Playdough
4/16/25- Plant Dyed Easter Eggs Workshop
4/17/25- Dehydrating 101
4/23/25- Sourdough Workshop I
4/26/25- Pretzels from Scratch
4/28/25- DIY Hanging Herb Drying Rack
4/30/25- Garden Planning Series: Soil Prep & Planting
5/1/25- Composting 101
5/3/25- Sourdough Workshop II
5/5/25- Rainwater Collection Setup & Rain Barrel Decorating
5/7/25- Herbal Soap Bars Workshop
5/10/25- Dandelion Honey (Vegan) Workshop
5/12/25- Beeswax Food Wraps Workshop
5/14/25- Herbal Infused Oils Workshop
5/19/25- Compost “Tea” Workshop
5/21/25- Bee Watering Station Workshop
5/24/25- Fresh Herb Bread Workshop
5/26/25- Handmade Garden Markers Workshop
5/28/25- DIY Natural Insect Repellent Workshop
Join us!
Equipment & Supplies
We’re often asked for recommendations on what to use during and after
each workshop. Here’s a short list of our tried and true favorites!
Sourdough Starter Jars: https://amzn.to/4aqu3d6
Beeswax: https://amzn.to/4jqlfb1
Wool Dryer Balls: https://amzn.to/3PME3ns
Borax: https://amzn.to/3EhQCEA
Washing Soda: https://amzn.to/4gch6ES
Laundry Soap Bar: https://amzn.to/3Efef0x
Fermentation Kit: https://amzn.to/3Cr2tja
Beef Gelatin: https://amzn.to/3E6pMiO
Arrowroot Powder: https://amzn.to/40GnEae
Waterbath Canner: https://amzn.to/40HBA41
Instant Read Thermometer: https://amzn.to/3Wuyiym
Lisa Marcelli is the owner and founder of Back to Basics: Urban Homesteading. As a wife and mother of two young boys, Lisa was driven by a desire to create a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle for her family. Her journey toward living more intentionally began when she became pregnant with her first child. Concerned about the ingredients in the food she ate and the products she used on her body, Lisa began researching the hidden chemicals in everyday items—from food and cleaning products to SPF, bug spray, and personal care items.
Through her research, Lisa discovered the power of natural, simple ingredients and realized she could create a cleaner, safer environment for her family without relying on harmful chemicals. This newfound knowledge ignited her passion for homesteading and sustainability, leading to the creation of Back to Basics: Urban Homesteading. Today, Lisa is dedicated to helping others learn how to make small, impactful changes to live more naturally and healthfully. Whether through her workshops or her personal journey, Lisa is committed to empowering families to embrace a simpler, more eco-friendly way of life.
Lisa Marcelli, Founder & Lead Homesteader
Lesa Kempert is passionate about living a sustainable and self-reliant life. Through her workshops, she empowers others to connect with their food by teaching the art of making spices, extracts, and sewn goods. Lesa believes in preserving traditional skills and fostering a deeper appreciation for handcrafted creations.
Lesa Kempert, Instructor
Casey, a passionate advocate for natural wellness, has turned personal challenges into a journey of growth and healing. She has embraced the world of mushrooms, herbs, and wild edible and medicinal plants as a path to renewal. Her journey is a testament to resilience, learning, and the power of nature to restore both body and spirit.
Casey Conrad, Apothecary Specialist