a celebration of the natural world

For the last decade we have had the privilege of bringing people together from all over the world, from ten to eighty years of age, making flower arrangements and witnessing the joy this brings. Our workshops are for anyone who loves flowers, from beginners and those exploring a new artistic medium to seasoned arrangers, gardeners and cut flower growers.

MANIFESTO

Materials are everything

Our workshops are first and foremost about connecting plants and people. We only ever use seasonal, locally grown materials (whether in the UK or further afield). You will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and variety of garden flowers through their organic forms, textures and colours, to learn about the plants our flowers come from and to reject hierarchy, making arrangements with everything from weeds and wildflowers to fruits and vegetables.

Individual learning

Each person who attends a workshop will have their own relationship with flowers, different levels of skill and experience and a personal goal in mind. We sensitively adapt our teaching styles for each guest, starting with the basics of practical techniques (hand-tieds, kenzans, chicken wire) and encouraging individual experimentation with colour, proportion, shape and symmetry.

A unique experience

We want every visitor to have an immersive workshop experience. Firstly, through learning - everything from plant varieties, insect life, soil health and compost to design theory, vases, books and resources, tips on working in events and how to photograph arrangements. Secondly, through a welcoming space filled with extraordinary flowers, delicious food, mindful activity and memorable shared encounters with a community of passionate people.

BOOK a PLACE

Our garden-to-vase workshops cover the core skills required to create a range of naturalistic arrangements. You will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and variety of garden flowers through their organic forms, textures and colours, to learn about the plants our flowers come from and to reject hierarchy, making arrangements with everything from buttercups to peonies. Whichever dates you choose to visit us, you will be surrounded by extraordinary natural materials - blossoming and decadent, wild and weedy, edible, medicinal and scented.

SESSIONS

• Introduction to the studio

• Garden hand-tied bouquet

• Flowers for the table

• Q&A

• Scalable vase design

• Free-style creative session

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Demonstrations of practical techniques

• Examination of seasonal ingredients, including how they were grown, cut and conditioned

• Exploration of design theory including colour, shape and texture

• Relaxed open group discussions on a variety of topics from gardening to event work

• Friendly and constructive feedback on your work

CHARLESTON FARMHOUSE, UK

A summer’s day of flower arranging at Charleston Farmhouse in the Sussex downs, including a tour of the famous house and gardens, delicious lunch, demonstration and arranging session. Heaven! Head over to the Charleston website for info on how to book.