SMALL-GROUP CREATIVITY SESSIONS
Graceful Giving
Step into the art of thoughtful gifting with entertaining expert Lydia Menzies, contributing editor to Southern Lady and author of The Supper Club with Lydia Menzies. In this festive session, you’ll learn creative and stylish gift-wrapping techniques that turn even the simplest package into a beautiful presentation. Lydia will also share her favorite hostess gift ideas—elegant, practical, and personal touches that leave a lasting impression. Walk away with inspiration and hands-on tips for holiday entertaining and giving with grace.
Essentials of Tea
Discover the timeless beauty and simple joys of afternoon tea with TeaTime editor Lorna Reeves and Victoria editor Melissa Lester. They’ll share practical tips for hosting a memorable tea, from brewing techniques to table settings. Blending expertise with personal stories and inspiration from their magazines, they’ll offer encouragement for making tea a meaningful ritual in everyday life. Whether you’re new to tea or a lifelong enthusiast, this is your invitation to slow down, sip, and savor.
Splendid Tables
Learn the art of setting a showstopping table with guidance from Paul Wojcik, Chief Visual Officer of Mottahedeh; Wendy Kvalheim, owner of Mottahedeh; and Victoria Fanning, owner of Arte Italica and Crown Linen Designs. In this hands-on session, you’ll mix and match elegant pieces from beloved brands to create a bespoke place setting all your own. From layering textures to pairing unexpected patterns, discover insider tips for designing beautiful, memorable tablescapes that reflect your personal style.
Watercolor Keepsakes
Join Printfresh founder, textile designer, and fashion entrepreneur Amy Voloshin for a playful, beginner-friendly watercolor session that blends art and storytelling. In this guided class, you’ll learn to capture travel memories through vibrant watercolor sketches and handwritten notes. Whether you’re inspired by a favorite getaway or dreaming up your next adventure, Amy will help you translate those moments into beautiful, personal keepsakes. No experience is necessary—just bring your love of beauty, storytelling, and joyful creativity.
Dressed in Holiday Style
With guidance from favorite fashion experts highlighted in our magazines’ pages, learn how to curate a timelessly elegant wardrobe and compose flattering ensembles while developing a signature style. Glean wisdom and inspiration from Susannah Mathews of BURU, Kim Lolley of Kim Lolley Designs, and Victoria Fanning of Crown Linen Designs. During this festive and fun session, which includes a personal consultation, discover ideas for refreshing your holiday looks while mastering the confidence of knowing what to wear for any occasion, from cocktail parties to cozy gatherings.
Enrich your time at the Gracious Living Celebration with one of the thoughtfully curated add-on sessions below. VIP registrants receive one complimentary add-on experience as part of their registration.
Paper Marbling Workshop at the Charleston Library Society
Tuesday, October 21 3:00–5:00 p.m. (2 hours) $175 8 people Join James Davis, director of conservation at the Charleston Library Society, for an immersive introduction to the timeless art of decorative paper marbling. This centuries-old technique—dating as far back as the 10th century—uses floating pigments on water to create intricate patterns that are transferred onto paper in a single, fluid moment. In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore the fascinating history and evolution of paper marbling while learning about the essential tools, materials, and methods that bring this captivating craft to life. From swirling inks to layering vibrant colors, you’ll be guided through the process of creating your own one-of-a-kind marbled papers. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a curious beginner, this workshop invites you to slow down, experiment boldly, and uncover the joy of turning motion and color into lasting works of art. Requirement: Must be able to walk to and from the Charleston Library Society, approximately 0.2 mile from the hotel.An Afternoon of Florals & Tabletop Artistry at Juliska with Gina Diamond
Tuesday, October 21 3:00–5:00 p.m. $200 15 people Join us at the flagship Juliska boutique—just steps from The Charleston Place—for a hands-on floral workshop that brings beauty and creativity to the table. Known for their romantic European-inspired designs and timeless tableware, Juliska celebrates the art of gathering with pieces that turn everyday moments into special occasions. Sip Champagne as you craft your own custom arrangement in a signature Juliska vase, yours to take home as a keepsake (with complimentary shipping included). During the workshop, Juliska’s tabletop experts will share tips on effortless table styling and how to layer textures, tones, and collections to create your own unique tablescape. As you explore the beautifully curated showroom, discover how Juliska’s heirloom-quality ceramics, glassware, and linens can elevate any table—and be inspired to bring joy to your own gatherings at home. Requirement: Must be able to walk to and from Juliska, approximately 0.1 mile from the hotel and climb stairs to the workshop space. An elevator is not available. Must also be able to stand during the workshop.Afternoon Tea at The Charleston Place
Tuesday, October 21 3:00–5:00 p.m. $150 20 people Step into the Thoroughbred Club Lounge at The Charleston Place for a refined afternoon tea experience with TeaTime editor Lorna Reeves. Set within the sophisticated, English-inspired lounge, you’ll delight in a curated selection of sweet and savory delights with a distinct Southern twist. Savor artfully prepared tea sandwiches, delicate pastries, and freshly baked scones—all served alongside your choice of fine tea or a glass of Champagne. Whether you’re a devoted tea enthusiast or simply seeking a luxurious afternoon in charming company, this is a gathering not to be missed.Historic Home Tour
Tuesday, October 21 2:50–5:30 p.m. $100 25 people Visit two of Charleston’s most storied homes, both of which have appeared in the pages of Southern Lady. Start with a tour of the 1772 Heyward-Washington House, built by one of the four South Carolina signers of the Declaration of Independence. Afterward, we’ll walk just a few minutes to the 1808 Nathaniel Russell House, the former home of a prominent local merchant, for a tour followed by a wine reception in the garden. Requirement: Must be able to walk to and from the homes, located approximately 0.5 mile from the hotel and between homes or secure your own transportation to and from the homes. Must also be able to stand during the tours without sitting.Topiary Workshop with Lydia Menzies
Tuesday, October 21 3:00–5:00 p.m. $200 25 people Join entertaining expert Lydia Menzies at The Charleston Place for a fresh take on the art of the topiary. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft your own stunning centerpiece using an unexpected mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and creative accents. Lydia will guide you step by step, sharing tips for styling with charm and whimsy. You’ll leave with your completed topiary and the reusable form—ready to recreate the magic at home for your next gathering or holiday celebration.Sealing the Season in Beauty
Wednesday, October 22 2:00–3:30 p.m. $200/person 20 people Celebrate the season with artist Kathryn Hastings, founder of Kathryn Hastings & Co. and host of the One Sealed Letter podcast, in a festive workshop that brings the historic art of wax seals into the present. Known for elevating wax seals into fine art and creating modern heirlooms, Kathryn will guide you in melting, pouring, and pressing wax to craft exquisite seals. Each participant will receive a complete sealing set—including a collector’s wax seal designed exclusively for this workshop, a wax melter, a melting spoon, and sealing wax—and will learn creative ways to use seals for holiday cards, letters, gift wrap, and keepsakes.