FLOWER power is more than a slogan made famous by a generation of hippies opposed to the Vietnam War.
The expression, coined in 1965 by the late American poet Allen Ginsberg, lives on more than 50 years later as a symbol of peace and love.
In the 21st century, any chance to disconnect from the digital world and create something by hand has a healing power all of its own.
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READ NOWWild Seasons Flowers owner Maria Hart is not a florist, but as a relationship counsellor she is well versed in the power of connection.
Provide a group of people with the same selection of flowers and foliage to design a display and the result will be different each time.
No two people create in quite the same way and that alone is an exhilarating experience to share while learning a few tricks of the trade.
“I saw a gap in the industry to offer people the opportunity to learn how to produce a range of floral creations in the Hills without travelling to the city,” Maria said.
“It is somewhat of a lost skill as people don’t have the same gardens as generations gone by and everybody is busier these days. But there is such beauty and joy in having flowers in the home and people are rediscovering that.”
No experience or knowledge is required to take part in a workshop and time spent learning the elements of botanical design is an excuse to play in nature’s garden.
I joined a small group of flower lovers as a guest at a workshop in wild flower design.
Florist Monique Stewart demonstrated how to select, prepare and arrange a selection of Australian and South African native blooms.
“Let the flowers tell you what they want to do; each one is different and every flower has its own personality,” she said.
I attempted an asymmetrical design under the guidance of florist Rika Yamagami, who will present a Japanese-inspired workshop on August 11.
Other upcoming workshops featured include making a table centre or festive wreath for Christmas in July and each session is accompanied by a delicious arrangement of refreshments.
For more information, call Wild Seasons Flowers on 9293 2817 or email info@wildseasonsflowers.com.au.
What: Christmas in July floral workshops
When: July 3, 14
Where: Wild Seasons Flowers, Kalamunda