Last Thursday evening, Ryerse Garden Gallery in Simcoe transformed its greenhouse into something special: a cozy, creative workshop space where neighbours came together to celebrate the season.
The garden centre hosted its very first Fall Planter Workshop, welcoming 14 participants of all ages and skill levels. Some arrived solo and made new friends; others came with a buddy or two, turning it into a night out. With fall music playing, lights strung up in the greenhouse, and refreshments on hand, the atmosphere was warm and inviting.
Each guest built their own autumn planter from a carefully curated selection of plants. For many, it wasn’t just about making something beautiful — it was about learning. Participants shared afterward that they walked away with both a stunning creation and new knowledge about the plants they worked with.
For Ryerse Garden Gallery, the workshop was about more than planters. “We wanted a way to reconnect with the community,” says Garden Centre Manager Megan Rusling. “After the fire, many people still don’t realize we’re open and operating. Hosting workshops is a fun, hands-on way to remind people we’re here — and to bring them together.”
The concept seems to be filling a gap locally. Some attendees mentioned they’d been traveling as far as Niagara to find this type of experience, making Ryerse’s workshop a welcome addition to Norfolk’s community calendar.
The success of the first event has already sparked demand. Ryerse Garden Gallery is now promoting a Fresh Fall Arrangement Workshop on Thursday, October 2, with more dates planned into November and the holiday season.
With creativity, connection, and community at its heart, Ryerse Garden Gallery’s workshop series looks like it will quickly become a seasonal tradition.
👉 Learn more at ryersegardengallery.com or follow them on Instagram for updates.
