Sip & Script Calligraphy Workshops : Sharing the Art of Modern Calligraphy Across the Midwest

For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a love for beautiful writing. The rhythm of ink gliding across paper, the quiet focus of each stroke - calligraphy is more than just an art form; it’s an experience of patience, mindfulness, and creativity. Over the years, what started as a personal passion has grown into my full-time creative business, Letters from Elliott. And now, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve joined Sip & Script® as an official modern calligraphy instructor, teaching beginner-friendly workshops across Eastern Iowa, Western Illinois, and Chicago. Whether you’ve always wanted to try calligraphy or are looking for a fun night out with friends, these classes are designed to help you slow down, sip something delicious, and learn the art of modern lettering — no experience required!

What Is Sip & Script®?

If you’re new to the idea, Sip & Script® is a nationwide network of professional calligraphers who teach modern calligraphy workshops at local venues like coffee shops, wineries, restaurants, and boutiques. The concept is simple: bring people together to learn something new in a relaxed, social setting - with a fun drink in hand and creativity flowing. Founded by two talented calligraphers, Sip & Script has grown into a beloved brand that makes calligraphy approachable for everyone. You don’t need fancy handwriting, an art degree, or any experience — just a willingness to have fun and try something new. Each class is beginner friendly and guided step by step by your instructor (that’s me!). You’ll learn how to use a pointed pen and ink, practice basic strokes, and work your way toward forming letters, words, and your own modern calligraphy style.

Every Sip & Script student receives a beautiful beginner calligraphy kit—complete with worksheets, nib, ink, and practice guides to take home.

Why I Became a Sip & Script Instructor

As a full-time calligrapher, engraver, and live artist, I’ve spent years bringing personalization to luxury brand events, weddings, and corporate activations. I love the excitement of live calligraphy and the joy that comes from seeing someone’s eyes light up when they receive something handwritten just for them.

But there’s another side of calligraphy that’s equally meaningful — teaching. Calligraphy has a way of grounding us, offering a moment of calm in the middle of our busy, digital lives. I wanted to bring that experience to more people in my community. Becoming a Sip & Script instructor felt like a natural next step. It allows me to share my passion for lettering in a fun, laid-back environment while helping others discover a new creative outlet. Whether someone’s attending solo, with friends, or as part of a private event, these classes create a sense of connection that goes far beyond pen and paper.

What to Expect at a Sip & Script Calligraphy Workshop

Each Sip & Script class is about 90 minutes long and includes everything you need to get started:

• A high-quality pointed pen and nib

• A jar of black ink

• Practice paper and guide sheets

• Step-by-step instruction from a professional calligrapher

You’ll learn how to:

• Properly hold and use your calligraphy pen

• Create the basic strokes that form letters

• Connect letters into words

• Add your own modern style and flair

Classes are designed to be relaxed, social, and hands-on. Guests often arrive a little early to grab a drink or snack from the venue before class begins. We go over the basics together, practice at our own pace, and wrap up with time for questions, photos, and a few fun lettering prompts. Most people leave class not only with a new skill, but also a sense of calm and accomplishment — plus all the materials to continue practicing at home.

Calligraphy, cocktails, and connection—Sip & Script workshops bring people together for a creative, social night out.

Where I’ll Be Teaching

As a Midwest-based calligrapher, I’ll be teaching Sip & Script workshops regularly across:

• Eastern Iowa (Muscatine, Davenport, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids)

• Western Illinois (Moline, Rock Island, Galesburg, and surrounding areas)

• Chicago, IL (River North, The Loop, Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park, and beyond)

Each workshop will be hosted at a local establishment such as:

• Cozy coffee shops and cafés

• Boutiques and pop-up retail spaces

• Wineries, breweries, and restaurants

• Hotels and event venues (like The Gwen or Hotel Zachary in Chicago)

  
  

Every venue is carefully chosen for its atmosphere — a place where guests can relax, sip, and enjoy an evening of creativity. If you’re a business owner in Eastern Iowa, Western Illinois, or the Chicago area and are interested in hosting a Sip & Script calligraphy workshop, I’d love to chat! These events draw a creative, social crowd and are an easy, no-cost way to bring new guests into your space.

Why People Love Modern Calligraphy

Modern calligraphy is having a major moment — and for good reason. It combines the timeless elegance of traditional script with a more expressive, free-flowing style that feels personal and modern.

Here are a few reasons people fall in love with it:

• It’s relaxing. There’s something meditative about slowing down and focusing on each stroke.

• It’s creative. You can develop your own style — there’s no “perfect” way to do it.

• It’s useful. From addressing envelopes to creating signage or personal gifts, calligraphy is endlessly versatile.

• It’s social. Our classes bring people together for a shared experience that’s as fun as it is inspiring.

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a girls’ night out, or a thoughtful gift idea, a Sip & Script calligraphy workshop is a perfect fit.

Private and Corporate Calligraphy Workshops

In addition to public events, I also offer private calligraphy workshops for small groups, team-building events, bridal showers, and corporate gatherings.

Private classes can be hosted at your location or one of my partner venues and are completely customizable — from materials to group size to project focus.

For example:

• Corporate events can include branding elements or company keepsakes.

• Bridal showers or bachelorette parties can focus on envelope addressing or custom signage.

• Holiday gatherings can include themed lettering projects or ornaments.

Each private event includes all materials, setup, and cleanup — I handle the details so you can relax and enjoy.

From first dip to final flourish—practice makes progress in every Letters from Elliott Sip & Script calligraphy workshop.

Hosting a Sip & Script Workshop at Your Business

If you’re a local venue in Eastern Iowa, Western Illinois, or Chicago looking to partner for an upcoming event, hosting a Sip & Script calligraphy workshop is simple and mutually beneficial.

Here’s how it works:

1. You provide the space and promote the event alongside me.

2. Sip & Script handles ticket sales, registration, and marketing.

3. Guests arrive ready to sip, learn, and have fun!

There’s no cost for the venue, and workshops typically attract 15–30 guests who love supporting local businesses — often purchasing drinks, snacks, or gifts while they’re there.

If your café, boutique, or event space is looking for a fresh, engaging way to bring people in during the holiday season or slower months, hosting a Sip & Script class is a perfect option.

My Journey as a Calligrapher

Before teaching calligraphy workshops, my creative business — Letters from Elliott — has taken me across the Midwest for live brand activations and luxury events. I’ve worked with brands like Dior, Burberry, Parfums de Marly, Dolce & Gabbana, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom, providing on-site calligraphy, engraving, and bottle painting for high-end clientele. I’ve also expanded into custom illustration and hot foiling, bringing a modern, artistic twist to traditional lettering.

Becoming a Sip & Script instructor allows me to connect with people on a different level — not just creating for them, but teaching them how to create for themselves. Watching someone fall in love with calligraphy for the first time is incredibly rewarding.

Why Take a Class With Me

My teaching style is warm, encouraging, and detail-oriented. I want students to feel supported, not intimidated. In my workshops, we laugh, we make mistakes, and we celebrate the process together.

When you take a class with me, you can expect:

• Personalized attention in a small-group setting

• Beautiful materials and thoughtful presentation

• Clear, step-by-step instruction from a professional calligrapher

• A fun, relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind and be creative

You’ll leave with a solid foundation, the tools you need to keep practicing, and the confidence to create your own hand-lettered projects.

Learning the fundamentals of modern calligraphy—each Sip & Script class begins with guided pen strokes and hands-on practice.

How to Stay Updated

I’ll be announcing new Sip & Script workshop dates regularly throughout the year. To stay in the loop:

• Follow @lettersfromelliott on Instagram and Facebook

• Check the Sip & Script website for upcoming classes near you

• Subscribe to my email list for updates on new workshops and events

If you’d like to host a private class or become a partner venue, feel free to reach out — I’d love to collaborate.

Final Thoughts

Teaching modern calligraphy through Sip & Script® has been such a joy — a chance to combine art, connection, and community in the most meaningful way. Whether you’re joining a class in Eastern Iowa, Western Illinois, or Chicago, you’ll find that each workshop is more than just an art lesson — it’s a chance to slow down, sip something wonderful, and rediscover the beauty of creating by hand.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn calligraphy, this is your sign to give it a try. Grab a friend, find a local venue near you, and come join me for a night of ink, laughter, and creativity.