Here are 10 questions answered by Liz at Slow Sunday that will guarantee workshop success and help you plan, market, succeed and start running in-person workshops!
You’ll hear stories from real-life business owner Liz to help elevate your retail skills, grow your confidence and know what it takes to host successful workshops in your creative business.
So here are 10 questions for workshop success!
1. How and when did Slow Sunday start?
Slow Sunday officially launched in October 2020, but the concept had been brewing for a few years prior. I had purchased the domain and begun working on the branding long before the launch, but it wasn’t until the lockdown that I found the time to truly focus on building my own business. Stuck at home, I finally had the chance to bring my ideas to life. While I had a vision for what I wanted Slow Sunday to become, I wasn’t sure where to start. So, I began working with Joanne before the official launch to refine my ideas and create a streamlined action plan. My initial launch featured a collection of Cornwall-inspired prints, which quickly became popular. Since then, I’ve expanded my product range and begun offering in-person workshops, allowing me to connect more directly with my community.
2. Tell us about your product range and what sells best for you.
Slow Sunday offers a curated range of products, including prints, stationery, homeware, printmaking kits, and gifts. The business initially started with just prints, and I have gradually expanded to include more items that align with the Slow Sunday ethos of creativity and embracing slow moments. My best-selling products are usually the coastal-inspired prints, which resonate with customers looking to bring a bit of that serene, seaside feeling into their homes. Recently, I launched an at-home printmaking kit, which has quickly become a customer favourite, reflecting the growing interest in creative, hands-on experiences.
3. When and why did you start offering in-person workshops?
I began offering in-person workshops in November 2021, once lockdown restrictions were lifted. After months of social isolation, I felt a strong desire to engage with people face-to-face and share the joy of printmaking. I noticed that many others were also seeking meaningful, creative experiences after being confined at home for so long. Hosting workshops allowed me to provide a space for people to learn a new skill, express themselves, and connect with others in a fun, supportive environment.
4. What contributes to workshop success?
In my experience, a successful workshop is built on a few key elements:
- Good organisation and structure: A clear plan ensures that the workshop runs smoothly from start to finish.
- A friendly and approachable atmosphere: Making attendees feel welcome and at ease is essential for creating a positive learning environment.
- Willingness to share skills and knowledge: Openness and generosity in teaching helps participants feel valued and supported.
- Accessibility for different skill levels: Tailoring the session to accommodate beginners as well as more experienced individuals ensures everyone can participate and enjoy.
- An inspiring end product: Participants should leave feeling proud of what they’ve created, which boosts their confidence and encourages further creative exploration.
5. What themes and formats of workshops work well for you?
The “Make Your Own Bristol Balloon Print” workshop has been my most popular offering to date. Its success stems from the iconic nature of the Bristol balloon theme, which resonates with local attendees. The fact that participants leave with a frame-worthy print also adds value to the experience. Seasonal themes tend to be popular as well, allowing people to create something relevant to the time of year. I offer a variety of formats, including adult-only sessions, as well as adult-and-child and family-friendly workshops, to cater to different audiences and needs.
6. How do you market your workshops?
I rely heavily on local Facebook groups, which can effectively reach a targeted audience. Instagram is another valuable platform, allowing me to showcase workshop highlights and engage with potential attendees visually. I also use my newsletter to keep my community informed about upcoming events and special offers. Additionally, the venues I partner with often help promote the workshops, which extends my reach and brings in new participants.
7. What were the biggest challenges you faced when starting to offer in-person workshops?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was producing enough of the paper stencils used in the workshops. Initially, I made them all by hand, which was both time-consuming and physically demanding. It became clear that this method wasn’t sustainable as interest in the workshops grew. After realising the workshops were a success, I invested in more efficient production methods, which has been a game-changer, saving time and energy. Finding the right venue and ensuring I had all the necessary supplies in place were also initial challenges, but these became easier to manage with experience.
8. Do you offer B2B corporate workshops, and how do these differ from the B2C workshops?
Yes, I offer B2B corporate workshops, which differ from my B2C workshops in several key ways. Corporate workshops are often tailored to team-building activities, focusing on fostering creativity and collaboration among colleagues. These sessions typically involve larger groups, so I adjust the structure to ensure everyone has a meaningful and enjoyable experience. Corporate workshops can be customised to fit a company’s branding or specific event themes. They are also often held at the company’s location or a venue of their choosing, rather than my usual workshop spaces, which requires additional logistical planning.
9. What advice would you give to a retail business that wants to start offering in-person workshops?
My advice is to start small and test the waters. Begin with a straightforward workshop that you’re comfortable with and that doesn’t require too many materials or a complicated setup. This will allow you to gauge interest and fine-tune your teaching methods. Finding a suitable venue is crucial; look for a space that is welcoming and comfortable for attendees but doesn’t require a significant upfront investment. Consider negotiating a discounted rate for your first event and discuss the venue’s cancellation policy to avoid potential losses. Don’t be discouraged if you need to cancel workshops occasionally; it’s a normal part of the process. Effective marketing is key—use social media, newsletters, and local community groups to spread the word. Partnering with other local businesses can also help increase your reach. Lastly, always seek feedback from participants to continuously improve your offerings and better understand your audience’s needs.
10. What are your next plans for Slow Sunday?
I plan to introduce new workshop themes that continue to inspire creativity and community engagement. I also want to dedicate more time to producing my own artwork, exploring new techniques and ideas. One of my goals is to work towards securing an artist residency, which would provide a valuable opportunity for personal growth and professional development. Expanding both my product range and my workshop offerings will be a key focus as I look to grow Slow Sunday while staying true to its core values.
Thank you so much Liz from Slow Sunday for answering questions on workshop success and how to host creative in-person workshops and succeed with them!
Do check out Liz’s limited edition prints and workshops at www.slowsunday.co.uk and follow her on Instagram at @slowsunday.studio for inspiration on celebrating life’s meaningful moments.
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This is such a user-friendly breakdown of the topic.