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Learn. Create. Style.

Workshop Experiences

Four guided programs, each shaped around your group. We bring the plan, the materials and the styling — your people simply create.

Every workshop is custom

Because each group is different in size, setting and goals, we build a plan and a quote for your specific request rather than posting fixed prices. Tell us what you have in mind and we'll come back with options, timing and pricing.

Workshops that come back again and again

Although every workshop can be fully customized for your group, Van Buren Creates also hosts recurring workshops — favorite sessions that return throughout the year. Join a scheduled date as an individual, or request any of them privately for your group.

  • Small Plant/ Candle Stand

    Small Plant/Candle Stand

    Create something beautiful and functional! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll paint and personalize your own small wooden stand—perfect for displaying a favorite small plant, candle, or piece of décor. No experience needed; we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish.

  • Pallet Plaque for Pictures

    Pallet Plaque for Pictures

    Turn your favorite memories into a piece of décor! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create and personalize a rustic pallet-style plaque designed to display your favorite photos. A fun, functional project that adds a personal touch to any space.

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    Painting Ornaments for the Holidays

    Add a personal touch to your holiday décor! In this festive workshop, you’ll paint and personalize your own ornaments to take home and enjoy throughout the season. A fun and relaxing way to get creative while making something special for your tree or to give as a gift.

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    Round Welcome Door Signs

    Give your front door a little personality! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll paint and personalize your own round wooden welcome sign to complement your style and add a warm, creative touch to your entryway.

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    Zen Garden

    Slow down, get creative, and make a little space for calm! In this relaxing workshop, you’ll design and personalize your own mini Zen garden—a decorative piece perfect for your desk, office, or favorite quiet space.

  • Decorative Beaded Pen

    Decorative Beaded Pen

    Turn an everyday essential into something uniquely yours! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design your own decorative beaded pen using a variety of beads and accents. Create something stylish, functional, and perfect for keeping or gifting.

  • Wreath

    Wreath

    Create a warm welcome for your home! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design and personalize a decorative wreath using a variety of seasonal accents and materials. The perfect project for adding your own creative touch to your door or home décor.

  • Mosaic Tile Coaster

    Mosaic Tile Coaster

    Piece together your creativity! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design your own decorative coaster using colorful mosaic tiles. Mix, match, and arrange your pieces to create a functional work of art that’s uniquely yours.

  • Bee Magnet

    Bee Magnet

    Let’s get buzzy and creative! In this fun hands-on workshop, children will paint and decorate their very own bee magnet. They’ll have fun choosing colors, adding their own creative touches, and taking home a cute creation they can proudly display.

  • Blooming Bar

    Blooming Bar

    Pick, arrange, and create something beautiful! At our Blooming Bar, you’ll choose from a selection of fresh blooms and greenery to design your own floral arrangement. It’s a relaxed, creative experience perfect for connecting with others while creating something beautiful to take home.

  • Wind Chime

    Wind Chime

    Create a little music for your outdoor space! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design your own decorative wind chime using a variety of beads and bells. Mix and match your pieces to create something colorful, creative, and uniquely yours—then take it home and let the breeze do the rest!

  • Stay Rooted Mannequin

    Stay Rooted Mannequin

    Get creative with a unique twist on greenery! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design and personalize a decorative mannequin using an assortment of succulents and creative accents. The finished piece is an eye-catching creation perfect for adding a little personality and greenery to your décor.

Creative team building that actually feels good

Team Creations

Who it's for

Corporate teams, staff appreciation days, leadership retreats, employee resource groups and nonprofit staff who want time together that isn't another meeting.

What to expect

  • A guided session led start to finish — no craft experience needed
  • All materials, tools and styled setup brought to your space
  • A relaxed pace built for conversation, with a finished piece to take home
  • Options for 60, 90 or 120-minute sessions depending on your agenda

Example projects

  • Dried floral arrangements for desks and shared spaces
  • Hand-poured candles with a signature scent selection
  • Custom canvas or framed wall pieces for the office
  • Personalized drinkware and keepsake gifts

Group settings

  • Office conference rooms
  • Break rooms and lounges
  • Offsite venues and retreats
  • Outdoor patios and courtyards

Slow, sensory making for comfort and connection

Crafted Care

Who it's for

Senior communities, group homes, residential communities, caregiver groups, support circles and wellness programs looking for an unhurried creative experience.

What to expect

  • A calm, gently paced session with plenty of one-on-one support
  • Simple, tactile projects chosen for comfort and success
  • Seated-friendly setups with accessible tools and clear instructions
  • Group sizes adapted to staffing and mobility needs

Example projects

  • Candle pouring with soothing scent choices
  • Simple floral and greenery arrangements
  • Decorated keepsake boxes and photo frames
  • Seasonal door and table pieces for shared spaces

Group settings

  • Activity and community rooms
  • Dining halls
  • Day programs
  • Residential common areas

Hands-on making for young creatives

Crafty Kids

Who it's for

Schools and classrooms, daycares, summer camps, after-school and youth programs, scout troops, birthday groups and family gatherings.

What to expect

  • Age-appropriate projects with clear, step-by-step guidance
  • Everything supplied — including protective coverings and cleanup
  • Sessions sized for classroom rotations or one large group
  • Room for kids to personalize what they make

Example projects

  • Decorated tote bags and drawstring bags
  • Painted canvas and mixed-media art
  • Seasonal ornaments and holiday keepsakes
  • Simple sensory and texture projects for younger ages

Group settings

  • Classrooms
  • Cafeterias and multipurpose rooms
  • Camp pavilions
  • Church and community halls

A styled social evening, with something to take home

Make & Mingle

Who it's for

Friend groups, showers and celebrations, church and community groups, alumni and networking circles, and anyone hosting a private social gathering.

What to expect

  • A beautifully styled table and setup as part of the experience
  • Guided making with time built in for talking and browsing
  • Options to pair with VBC rentals for a fully styled event
  • Group sizes from intimate gatherings to larger private parties

Example projects

  • Dried floral bar with individual arrangements
  • Candle and scent blending stations
  • Charcuterie board styling and tabletop design
  • Seasonal wreath and centerpiece making

Group settings

  • Private homes
  • Event venues and clubhouses
  • Church fellowship halls
  • Covered outdoor spaces

How to request a workshop

Four simple steps

  1. 01

    Choose a date

    Pick from the dates we've marked as potentially open, plus a second choice.

  2. 02

    Tell us about your group

    Size, ages, setting and what you'd love to make.

  3. 03

    We review and reply

    We confirm availability and send your custom plan and quote.

  4. 04

    Your date is confirmed

    Once approved, we lock in your date and handle the rest.

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