Floral workshops are a blooming good time! They offer a creative outlet, a chance to connect with nature, and the joy of taking home a beautiful, self-made arrangement. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned flower enthusiast, hosting a floral workshop can be a rewarding experience. Here’s how to organise a perfect one in 10 simple steps:

1. Choose a theme of workshop: One of the most important aspects of your workshop is to have a clear theme. Having a theme helps narrow down your flower choices and creates a cohesive aesthetic. Consider seasons (like a spring bulb workshop), occasions (like a Mother’s Day bouquet class), or styles (like a rustic wildflower arrangement). 

2. Set a budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on flowers, materials, and potentially venue hire. Buying flowers online can often be more cost-effective, and many wholesalers offer bulk discounts. Explore your options. 

Alongside this – you will need to consider how your participants will pay for the workshop. Upfront? After the workshop? or in instalments? 

3. Choose your design: Once you have decided on the theme, next it’s time to choose the type of design to create in your workshop. What will your participants make? There are plenty of ideas, including wreaths, garlands, table centrepieces and so on. Choose designs that are achievable for your participants’ skill level. Offer variations and encourage personal expression.

Need inspiration? Refer to our DIY kits online. You can also look at social media such as Pinterest for endless inspiration and ideas. 

With that, you need to consider how and where to source your flowers or materials. Quality flowers are essential. Explore local flower markets, or conveniently buy flowers online from reputable suppliers. Consider your theme and the durability of different blooms.

4. Identify your audience: Who will attend your workshop? Intimate workshops allow for more individual attention, while larger ones can be more lively. Determine who your target audience is for the workshop you will be hosting; will the workshop be for children, adults, mothers-daughters, couples or friends? 

5. Find the perfect venue: This could be your home, a rented space, or even an outdoor area if weather permits. Ensure there’s enough space for participants to work comfortably. 

6. Set the date and time: Consider your target audience’s availability. Weekends or evenings often work well. 

If you are planning a seasoned workshop i.e. Spring or Christmas, make sure to schedule it far enough in advance so individuals can enjoy their creations through the season. 

It would be worth to create a poll or engage with your audience on social media to discuss with your audience if the time and date works well and decide accordingly. 

7. Promote Your Workshop: Spread the word through social media, local community groups, or even flyers. Clearly communicate the theme, date, time, cost, and what’s included. 

8. Add personal touches: To enhance the workshop and create a personal link to your business, consider offering extras to your attendees. You could offer refreshments that are themed, i.e. a cocktail, a hot chocolate or mulled wine to enhance the overall experience. While extras create a memorable day, this may increase the cost of the overall workshop as it will come at a cost! Make sure to gauge interest with your audience and adjust accordingly. 

9. Assign roles: It is important to consider how much help you might need for your workshop. Are you going to host the workshop alone or will you need help? Consider tasks such as set up, welcoming attendees, demonstrations, helping attendees, extras, farewells and clearing up at the end. You can make a detailed list of who will assist you with each step. 

10. Prepare Your Workspace: Organise materials for easy access, set up example arrangements for inspiration, and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Bonus Tips:

• Have a clear and concise demonstration to guide participants.
• Encourage creativity and individual expression.
• Capture the fun with photos and encourage participants to share their creations.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a successful and enjoyable floral workshop. Remember, the goal is to have fun, share the love of flowers, and create something beautiful!