Spring was in the air — and so was the spirit of sisterhood — at the Minneapolis Institute of Art on Saturday, April 5, as Sister Spokesman hosted its “Sisters in Bloom” event. The Wells Fargo Community Room buzzed with energy, inspiration, and floral creativity as attendees gathered to celebrate both the season and each other.
The floral-focused event was more than just a workshop; it served as a celebration of presence, beauty and connection. Participants didn’t just leave with bouquets — they learned how to create them from scratch.
Jennifer Bevan, lead floral design facilitator at Bachman’s, led the event’s highlight: a live floral demonstration that guided attendees through techniques in color theory, composition and floral care. Guests asked questions, took photos, and crafted centerpieces using roses, eucalyptus, wax flowers and other fresh greens.
“There’s something sacred about working with flowers,” said one participant. “It’s a ritual that draws you into the present.”
Bevan shared practical advice throughout her demonstration, offering tips on everything from selecting the right tools to reviving wilting blooms.
Floral tips from Jennifer Bevan:
- Use proper tools: Garden shears offer a cleaner cut than standard scissors, helping stems absorb more water.
- Build a base: Start with at least two types of greenery for texture and balance.
- Remove guard petals: Stripping outer petals from roses encourages them to bloom fully.
- Structure the arrangement: Begin with a central, tallest rose and build in a circular motion around it.
- Maintain freshness: Add water daily and change it every other day. Sugar water or a drop of bleach helps cut bacteria.
- Revive wilted flowers: Trim drooping roses shorter to help them rehydrate and perk up.
Crystal Berryman, an attendee, said she appreciated the hands-on learning. “I didn’t know there were so many simple ways to extend the life of flowers,” she said. “The speaker made floral arranging fun and easy.”
While the event was tailored toward women, it wasn’t exclusive. Nathaniel Khaliq, who initially planned to drop off his wife, decided to stay — and was glad he did. “I had a ball and will come again,” he said.
Each guest left with a single rose and complimentary tickets to MIA’s Giants exhibit, curated by Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys. The exhibit celebrates the work of groundbreaking African American artists, aligning with the event’s theme of honoring creativity and community.
Coming up
Sister Spokesman’s next event, Threads of Impact, will be held Saturday, May 3, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Wilder Center, 451 Lexington Parkway N., St. Paul. The event, curated by fashion tastemaker Richard Moody, will spotlight Black Fashion Week with a live runway show at 1 pm, along with a beauty showcase, local vendors, food, games, prizes, and a “Chic Impact” Best Dressed Contest.
Featured designers and retailers include:
- House of KLYNN, Kathryn Rogers
- Uniquely Global, Satiya Amporful
- Leslie Helen by Lesly Lather
- Renaissance Men’s Clothing, Marques Armstrong
- Top 2 Bottom Fashion, Tia Blade
Tickets are limited. To attend this celebration of cultural creativity and community influence, early registration is recommended.
Sister Spokesman continues to center culture, connection and empowerment in every gathering. For more information, visit Sister Spokesman page.
Kiara Williams welcomes reader responses at kwilliams@spokesman-recorder.com.