Early Bloomers: Flower Arranging in Spring

with Carly Connelly
May 16, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Tuition: $75
Materials Fee: $30

Participants will explore the art of flower arranging through the lens of early spring, working with seasonal blooms, budding branches, and fresh greens that reflect the textures and rhythms of the moment. Demonstrations will cover basic floral design principles, how to condition stems, and how to compose balanced, expressive arrangements that highlight the natural character of spring flowers. Local flowers from White Barn Flower Company in Holland, Michigan, will be provided to each participant. The class will conclude with a group discussion, after which participants will take their arrangements home. 

Plan to bring: a vessel, garden gloves, and a sturdy box to safely transport your finished arrangement.

Location: Ox-Bow House - 137 Center Street, Douglas, MI 49406 

Carly Connelly (they/them, she/her) was born and raised in Chicago and received an MFA from Herron School of Art and Design. They attended Ox-Bow on a Summer Fellowship and fell in love with Michigan. Their postgraduate career included curriculum design, classroom instruction across all art media, and studio instruction with an emphasis in ceramics and sculpture. In addition to working in Chicago art studios, Connelly began working in the commercial floral industry as a lead floral designer in 2018. They are currently the Horticulture Lead Designer at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. As an artist, educator, and floral designer, they explore the intersection of natural and sculptural forms and seek to help others engage with what nature provides.

Courtesy of artist.