Private Floral Workshops | Monticello, IL
‘I needed this.’
Comments like this one after an on-farm workshop never get old. We love creating these experiences because we believe people crave slowing down, getting creative, and laughing with the people they love.
Workshop Options
Bouquet Workshop
A back-to-the-basics bouquet workshop held here on our beautiful, working flower farm. Learn the simple skills that make any flowers you bring home look the way you always wished they would — then take home a stunning bouquet in a glass vase using stems grown at Graceful Acres.
- No experience needed — all skill levels will enjoy this workshop!
- Includes farm tour (see where your flowers are grown!)
- 10-person minimum pricing — smaller groups welcome!
- Glass vase and floral food included
Ceramic Centerpiece Workshop
Learn to create a stunning centerpiece arrangement in a beautiful ceramic boat using our fresh-cut flowers.
- No experience needed — all skill levels will enjoy this workshop!
- Includes farm tour (see where your flowers are grown!)
- 10-person minimum pricing — smaller groups welcome!
- Ceramic centerpiece vessel with floral food included
Have a specific vision? We’d love to discuss customizing a workshop to fit your group!
What’s Included
- Farm tour — walk our flower fields and see how our blooms are grown
- Whole-group instruction — step-by-step guidance from our farmer-florist
- Stunning curated floral bar — choose your stems from just-harvested farm flowers
- Exclusive u-pick opportunity — pick stems directly from the field (weather permitting)
- Individual assistance throughout
- Your finished arrangement to take home (vase, fresh stems, and floral food included)
- Opportunity to add catered snacks, meals, or a food and drink truck for your group
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to book a workshop?
- Fill out our booking form below — share your preferred date, group size, and workshop style
- We'll be in touch as soon as possible to confirm availability and go over all the details
- We'll send your group an info email about a week before with everything attendees need to know
- Arrive and arrange! Follow the signs to the barn, grab a name tag, and get ready for a great evening of learning, relaxing, and arranging.
Where are you located?
Our farm is located just east of Monticello, Illinois. We’re easy to reach from across Central Illinois:
- 20 miles from Champaign-Urbana (~25 min) — private floral workshops near Champaign
- 20 miles from Decatur (~25 min) — floral workshops near Decatur, IL
- 40 miles from Bloomington-Normal (~45 min)
- 55 miles from Springfield (~1 hr)
Ample on-site parking is available. When you book, we’ll send you full driving directions.
Who is a private workshop perfect for?
Private floral workshops at Graceful Acres are one of the most unique group experiences in Central Illinois — a favorite for bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, bridal showers, girls’ night out, corporate team building, mother-daughter experiences, and family get-togethers near Champaign-Urbana and throughout the region.
Do I need floral arranging experience?
Not at all! Farmer/Florist Rachel will walk you through every step of the process. The only requirement is a willingness to experiment and have fun.
How far in advance should I book?
As soon as possible! Our workshop dates fill up quickly, especially during the growing season. That said, please reach out even if your date is soon — we’ll always do our best to accommodate you.
How long is a workshop?
Approximately 2–2.5 hours, with extra time available if you’d like to add a meal, discussion time, or a little extra fun for your group.
Can we add extra time to our event?
Absolutely! Extra time is available at $75 per half hour. Just let us know when you inquire and we’ll make it work.
When do you offer workshops?
Our workshop season runs from April through October. We host both public and private workshops throughout the growing season. Reach out to check availability for your preferred date.
How much does a workshop cost?
Pricing varies based on workshop type and group size — reach out for details!
Can we bring food and drinks?
Yes, and we encourage it! Ice water is provided, but you’re welcome to bring wine, cocktails, and any snacks you’d like. Per Illinois law, alcohol cannot be sold on our premises without a licensed bartender — but personal consumption is completely welcome.
Graceful Acres can also assist with coordinating catering, snacks, or a food and drink truck for your event — just let us know when you inquire!
How many people can attend?
All private workshops require a 10-person minimum for pricing — smaller groups are always welcome! Our barn can accommodate much larger events — most workshops we host are 10–40 people. Please reach out to discuss what works best for your group; we’d love to tailor an experience perfect for you.
Can children attend?
Children are welcome! As a caregiver, please use your best discretion in determining whether your child is ready to listen and follow instruction as needed for a workshop setting. All attendees — including children — are counted in the per-person fee.
What should guests wear?
Wear something you’ll be comfortable in. Please keep in mind that Graceful Acres is a real farm — that means there is some uneven ground, and we’ll be walking through grass and fields. We strongly recommend footwear without a high heel.
Do you host public workshops too?
Yes! In addition to private group workshops, we host public, ticketed floral workshops throughout the growing season. Sign up for our email list to get first access to public workshop dates before they sell out.
“I was out for a centerpiece arranging class and it was amazing! The flowers are gorgeous, the venue is beautiful, and Rachel (the owner) is just all-around the best!”
— Callie A.
“Graceful Acres On-Farm Centerpiece Workshop was amazing! Rachel is very knowledgeable and oh so sweet! The farm is gorgeous and would be perfect for a wedding or event!”
— Kim J.
“If you are considering taking a workshop at Graceful Acres, DO IT! The farm is so beautiful — I could wander around this property for hours. The flowers are amazing; she provided so many colors and choices, all top quality stems. And Rachel is just the best. Her presentation was short, sweet, and to the point, while being so informative. She was so helpful answering questions and giving guidance on arranging. Not all workshops are created equal, and this one is top notch!”
— Jenae L.
“I attended a flower arranging workshop with my mom, and we had the most wonderful time! Rachel is such a kind person who puts you at ease. She gave great tips and hands-on support, and the flowers we used were absolutely stunning! She has a beautiful farm, plants the best flowers, and every arrangement I’ve purchased from her has lasted so much longer than from anywhere else. Love this flower farm!”
— Hannah T.
Book Your Private Workshop
Fill out the form below and we will be in touch as soon as possible to confirm availability and go over all the details for your group. Private workshops require a minimum of 10 guests.