Florists and flower arrangers from throughout the region had a rare opportunity to learn from world famous floral designer and author Gregor Lersch at a lecture demonstration at Reaseheath College in Nantwich.
Over 300 professional and leisure florists, floristry students and flower art enthusiasts attended the event, which was run in conjunction with Group 2000, a local NAFAS affiliated contemporary floral art and design club.
Gregor is a Master of Master Florists, the highest possible accolade, and has presented demonstrations and tutored workshops in more than 32 countries and written numerous floral design books. He is well known for his trend setting design styles, and his lecture demonstration offered an insight into contemporary design and technical craftsmanship with an emphasis on the use of sustainable and reusable materials.
Sue Poole, Programme Leader for Reaseheath’s Floristry and Horticulture Department, said: “This was a very special event which attracted hundreds of people including floristry professionals, teachers and judges. Gregor is one of the most inspirational and celebrated floral designers in the world and we received many lovely compliments after his presentation.
“Gregor travels world wide so we felt very privileged that he chose to visit Reaseheath College during his very full schedule.”
Former Reaseheath student Eleanor Bellwood, currently head florist at Citiblooms in Manchester, said: “I have been inspired by Gregor’s work for some years and this was a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills which will impress and excite our clients.”
Another former student, Caroline Boffey, who runs her own successful business ‘Flowers at The Dutch Barn’ added: “I actually attended one of Gregor’s workshops at his home in Germany in 2018 so I was very keen to see how his style has moved on. As a florist you are constantly learning and it was wonderful to pick up new ideas as well as enjoying a very entertaining evening.”
Gregor said: “This has been a very positive and well attended event held in a wonderful, modern college. The audience was very keen to receive technical instruction on the latest European design. Hopefully everyone learned something new to take home and try.
“My top tip for people entering or already working in the industry is to see floristry as a marriage between horticulture and floral design. Florists should understand the biology and science behind plant growth and be capable of planting up a container for a balcony or terrace as well as creating beautiful floral designs for indoors.”
In addition to the lecture demonstration, Gregor spent a further three days at Reaseheath sharing his expertise with college tutors and students, and with young professionals from the GB talent pool.
