Bonsai & Brew Studio
Elevated Plant Crafting & Boutique Live Art
Our Workshops
Beginner Bonsai 101
Looking for a unique and fun night out? Our beginner bonsai workshops are just the thing! Bring your friends, grab a drink, and dive into the captivating art of bonsai. We're taking bonsai out of traditional gardens and into your favorite bars, breweries, and coffee houses. Join us for a night of creativity, learning, and enjoyment.
Our expert instructors will guide you through the fundamental skills and techniques of bonsai. You'll learn to pot, prune, and craft your very own bonsai tree, all while enjoying a lively atmosphere. Bonsai-pétit!
Novice Bonsai 102
Looking for a creative and inspiring night out? Our Bonsai 102 workshops are the perfect blend of learning, design, and chill vibes. Whether you’ve joined us before or you’re ready to go beyond the basics, this next-level session is designed to deepen your understanding of bonsai as a living art form.
Grab a drink, bring a friend, and explore the principles of bonsai aesthetics, plant physiology, and structural design. You’ll work with a larger tree, practice wiring techniques, and learn how to elevate your bonsai’s final look with moss styling and thoughtful presentation. You do NOT have to take 101 Beginner Bonsai to enjoy this deeper dive!
Ficus Kokedama
Our Ficus Kokedama Workshop puts a creative spin on bonsai in one of the most hands-on, satisfying formats.
Perfect for plant lovers of all levels, this session teaches you how to turn a lush ficus bonsai into a living moss ball—known as kokedama, a traditional Japanese art form. You’ll sculpt, bind, and wrap your kokedama using decorative string, natural textures, and your own creative flair. To prepare for display, custom stain your own pedestal to show-off your new live art!
Grab a drink, roll up your sleeves, and craft a sculptural plant piece that’s as low-maintenance as it is beautiful. It's a full vibe—and you’ll leave with a living artwork ready to add style anywhere!
Miyabi Succulent Planter
Get grounded in style with our Miyabi Succulent Planter Workshop — a serene and satisfying experience rooted in design and creativity.
In this guided session, you'll build your own 8"x8" tabletop succulent planter using a selection of vibrant, unique succulents, natural preserved moss, and optional decorative candles. Learn simple styling principles inspired by Japanese design to create a balanced, eye-catching composition that brings life to your space.
This workshop is beginner-friendly, fun to do with friends, and designed to leave you feeling relaxed, inspired, and proud of your living centerpiece.
Mori Lamp Terrarium
"Mori"means little forest in Japanese and perfectly describes this living art. These one-of-a-kind workshops blend terrarium creation, accent lighting and hands-on fun to create a tabletop terrarium lamp that’s both beautiful, functional and includes the lamp topper, lampshade shade + bulb components.
In this immersive workshop, you’ll design your own layered terrarium inside a sleek glass lamp base — complete with preserved moss, natural elements, and mini decor accents. Learn the art of plant composition and terrarium care while creating a show-stopping piece that doubles as home decor.
About Us
Carmeanna Eberly, Founder
Carmeanna is an experienced operator, instructor and performance artist. Our resident Bonsai enthusiast, she has extensive experience building fun yet educational curriculums for all age groups. While her bonsai experience in practice is a decade long, her love of the art dates back to childhood.
She is a Member of the Midwest Bonsai Society, Prairie State Bonsai Society and holds a B.A. in communications, with a theater minor. She resides in Chicago, IL.
Jeff Lassahn, Co-Founder
Jeff is a native gardening guru, tenured teaching artist and creative mentor. He has taught in maker spaces across Chicagoland and has found unique ways to channel his artistry into botany. Jeff holds a B.F.A and resides in Chicago. IL
