In the Spring of 2023, just outside of Paris in a 17th-century chateau, something magical unfolded. Alongside Courtney from Winsome Floral and Cara from Trille Floral, I had the joy of hosting Reverdie—a three-day floral and photography workshop built on beauty, artistry, and slow, intentional connection.

The name Reverdie comes from an old French poetic form that celebrates the return of spring. Fitting, then, that this workshop was filled with new beginnings: fresh ideas, newfound friendships, and creative joy that will truly never leave my heart.

For three days, we stayed in the chateau together and taught attendees onsite. Mornings began with the smell of coffee and warm croissants. Baguettes, cheese, and laughter carried us through the day, and evenings wrapped us in candlelight, wine, and long dinners prepared by our local French chef.

While myself and the photo attendees took a day trip to Paris to explore and shoot in the city’s iconic backdrops, the florists cozied up inside the chateau’s dining room for a full day of design. Rain fell gently outside as they worked peacefully in a room filled with flowers, focused on bouquet techniques and foam-free arrangements.

Our last day of the workshop was the biggest. The photo team started the morning with a flatlay class, followed by some open work time to hone their styling skills. The florists began with a dreamy mantle installation, then split into two teams to design large-scale foam-free floral installations both inside and out. As our models arrived and hair and makeup artists set up, the entire chateau buzzed with energy. The creativity was contagious—we were all inspired by what we had made together. I lead the photo team throughout the day as we shot all installations, bouquets, and models. It rained, but that just added to the romance.

That night, we closed the workshop with a beautiful dinner: one final meal crafted by our chef, shared with clinking glasses and full hearts.

Reverdie was more than a workshop. It was a moment where time felt like it stopped—romantic, intentional, and unforgettable. A true career highlight, and a memory I’ll treasure forever. Thank you especially to Courtney and Cara for inviting me to help creatively plan alongside them, and share my knowledge with photography attendees at the workshop.

Reverdie France was the first of our Reverdie series workshops. In the Spring of 2024 we hosted Reverdie Québec. We’re already dreaming up the next one, and we’d love to have you there. Please follow us on Instagram (@graceandardor, @winsomefloral, @trillefloral) for updates about future workshops!

Vendor Team

Workshop Hosts, Design – Trille Floral, Winsome Floral, Grace & Ardor Co.
Florals – Trille Floral, Winsome Floral
Photography – Grace & Ardor Co.
Hair – Mane Bridal
Makeup – Reina Kim
France Coordinator – Oui Mon Coeur
Gown – Monique Lhuillier
Shoes – Bella Belle Shoes
Paper – Blanche Heirloom Co.
Silk Ribbon – Native Ribbon Co.
Styling Mat Partner – Chasing Stone
Models – Ekaterina Goncharova, Kevin Pauchet
Rentals – Maison Options
Production Assistants – Splendor of Eden, Jen Ditrolio