Halloween is over and it’s time to look forward to Christmas, so start the season with a little green inspiration.
On Nov. 13, the flower arranging group Mid Island Foral Art Club will present A Floral Christmas.
“We’re hoping people get lots of ideas,” said Laurene Ebbett, who runs communications for the 40-member club. “Little arrangements that are charming and enjoyable can help celebrate the season.”
The focus of the afternoon is special guest Andrea Strachan, EMC, a florist from Duncan. The EMC behind Strachan’s name stands for European Master Certification, a designation she earned through a rigorous one-year flower design program which included a period of studying in Bruges.
European flower design respects the nature of a flower, explained Strachan. “I prefer using things in their natural state instead of over manipulating them.”
Strachan will showcase this type of flower arranging at Floral Christmas event with 12 - 20 demos. With each piece, she will explain the inspiration, as well as talk about how to explore form, balance, colours, texture and harmony. Many of these arrangements would be retailed for several hundred dollars, but Strachan said she will also demonstrate more modest and approachable designs for the audience to try at home.
“We want people to come and be inspired,” said Ebbett.
All of Strachan’s demo arrangements will then be raffled off at the end of the event.
Members of the Mid Island Foral Art Club, who have had their work displayed at the Old School House Art Centre and Milner Gardens, will also be selling some festive arrangements in the first hour of the show. Expect to see wreaths, table arrangements, floral wine bottle collars and more.
“Flower designs are living art … the beauty of the moment,” said Ebbett.
A Floral Christmas will take place at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. Doors and member’s sale open at noon and Strachan’s demos start at 1 p.m. Tickets are $10 and organizers advise that you buy them in advance from Mulberry Bush Book Stores in Parksville and Qualicum, Captivating Details in Qualicum or the Lady’s Mantle in Parksville. You can also call Rae at 250-248-2976. Tickets will also be available at the door.
Complimentary refreshments will be served throughout the day.
For more information, contact Darlene Ellwood 250-586-7733.