Over the past few weeks, the Floret farm has been a vibrant hub of activity, a delightful whirlwind of blossoms, heartfelt exchanges, new connections, and rekindled friendships. The experience has been a tapestry woven with intense learning, moments of both challenge and breakthrough, profound exhaustion, and unwavering optimism. Rather than attempting to encapsulate such a rich period in a single overview, this piece offers an intimate peek into the workings of a Floret Seasonal Floral Intensive Workshop.
Floret hosts two distinct workshops: the Farmer-Florist Intensive, which delves into high-yield, small-scale flower cultivation, and the Seasonal Floral Intensive, which emphasizes organic design using locally sourced flowers and greenery. While the farming courses are scheduled in the cooler months, the design classes thrive during peak bloom season. Each design workshop centers on a unique flower theme; this year’s highlights included the grandeur of peonies, the charm of wildflowers, and the elegance of daharose. These three-day immersions are packed with extensive knowledge sharing, practical demonstrations, and abundant hands-on practice, fostering a beloved and cherished aspect of Floret’s mission.
This particular workshop celebrated the peony, the undisputed star of late spring and early summer gardens. Despite an unexpected heatwave that altered original plans to visit a local peony farm, the essence of the farm was brought directly to the attendees. Forty-five diverse peony varieties were showcased, allowing participants to engage with their beauty through sight, touch, and scent, inspiring new additions to their personal cultivation lists. The initial day, commencing at the picturesque A. J. Johnson barn, transitioned into an engaging tour of the flower fields, where participants were encouraged to gather materials for their floral arrangements. This delightful exploration of nature led to many joyous moments and the formation of lasting bonds, filling the space with creativity and warmth.
The success of these extraordinary workshops is a testament to the dedicated team behind Floret. Months of meticulous planning and preparation culminate in an experience that unfolds like a harmonious melody, with each team member contributing their unique talents to create an unforgettable and truly spectacular event. To witness this dream become a reality, working alongside such inspiring and generous individuals, is a profound privilege and a constant source of wonder. It reinforces the idea that when passionate individuals unite with a shared vision, they can cultivate not just beautiful flowers, but also a thriving community and a lasting legacy of inspiration.