Peonies, Paint, and Permission to Create: A Floral Watercolor Workshop at Perennial Harbor

There’s so much magic that happens when women gather in a beautiful space to create, and our recent watercolor workshop at Perennial Harbor in Wilmington, NC was definitely that kind of magic.

Perennial Harbor is a new garden bar that feels like it was made for artists, and was definitely made by artists, including the creators of Blossom Bay Design and Foxhound Flowers. Nestled in lush greenery and full of thoughtful design, it’s both calming and creatively energizing. From the moment everyone arrived, I knew it was going to be a special experience.

Art Among the Flowers

We started the workshop with glasses of wine, delicious olives, and warm-up sketches right in the garden, surrounded by blooming plants, warm light, and the soft hum of conversation and connection scattered about on picnic quilts.

Next, each guest got to build her own floral arrangement featuring stunning peonies (is there anything better?). This part was such a joyful, hands-on way to slow down and engage with the textures and colors we’d soon be painting. So much can be said for both floral arrangements and creating painting compositions.

Then came the watercolor demo, where I shared my approach to capturing florals in a way that feels loose, expressive, and fun. I love teaching these moments, not just for the technique, but for the permission it gives people to let go of perfection and enjoy the process.

Breaking Creative Barriers

The group was all women, many of them trying watercolor for the first time or picking it back up after years away from art. That’s one of my favorite things about hosting these workshops: helping people move past fear, doubt, or the idea that they’re “not creative” enough.

Art is for everyone. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being present. And with wine in hand, laughter in the air, and beautiful blooms in front of us, each woman created something completely unique and lovely.

A Space for Creativity in Wilmington

If you haven’t been to Perennial Harbor yet, it’s the perfect spot to sip, sketch, and soak in the garden vibes. I’m so grateful they hosted us and can’t wait to return for more art-filled events.

Whether you’re local to Wilmington, NC or just visiting, keep an eye out for future art workshops. This one was definitely a reminder of how amazing it is to gather, create, and simply play with paint.

—

Want to join the next workshop?
You can follow along on Instagram @byamandafenker and @perennialharbor.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned painter, there’s a seat for you at the table.

The Greenhouse at Perennial Harbor