Hailey Rodden, an art teacher at Nash Elementary School, announced plans to open a floral studio named Florals by Hailey in Chicago’s Austin Arts District this fall. The new space, slated to begin operations in the latter half of 2026, will be located on the West Side of the city and will serve as a modest workshop venue for local residents.
The studio’s initial focus will be on offering hands‑on floral arranging classes and community workshops. Rodden intends to welcome neighbors of all ages to learn basic techniques, from selecting seasonal blooms to constructing simple bouquets. The classes are designed to complement her background in visual arts and to provide a creative outlet for participants.
While the first phase centers on educational sessions, Rodden envisions expanding the location into a full‑service retail shop. The future shop would carry a curated selection of cut flowers, potted plants, and related accessories, allowing customers to purchase arrangements directly from the studio. The transition to a retail model is planned for a later stage once the workshop program establishes a steady local following.
Rodden’s venture reflects a growing trend of educators turning personal passions into small businesses on Chicago’s West Side. By situating Florals by Hailey in the vibrant Austin Arts District, she joins a community of artists and makers who contribute to the neighborhood’s cultural revival. The studio’s launch this fall adds another creative resource to the area, offering both instructional opportunities and, eventually, a retail destination for floral enthusiasts.