It has been a whirlwind few days for the British Flowers Direct team. Between staging exhibits and managing stalls, Victoria and I headed into the thick of the competition at the North Midlands Area show. Here is a little look at how it all came together.
The Concept: Dawn Chorus
Our main exhibit, titled Dawn Chorus, was built from the ground up—quite literally. Using a ‘pipe and drape’ system as our skeleton, we layered the structure with Eucalyptus bark, Norfolk moss, and contorted Hazel to create a textured, woodland feel.
The vision was to marry contemporary design with the natural music of the garden. We featured two striking willow birds, which were sketched out and briefed to the incredibly talented willow sculptor, Jess at @BloomingCrafty. One of these took pride of place in a fabulous nest Victoria crafted around a hanging basket.
To bring the "music" to life, we used Dicentra to provide a "twinkling" effect, while hypnotically grown Kokedama Muscari nodded like notes on a stave. Despite the usual pre-show nerves and a few frantic video calls to nail the design concept, the vision came together beautifully.
The "Kelter" and a Touch of History
While the exhibit was the focal point, the 20% stall kept me busy! I spent a good portion of the day stacking a whole lot of “kelter” (as we say!), including a very special piece: a hand-painted flamingo screen.
This screen once graced an installation for Lady Baileys’ bedroom at Leeds Castle in Kent. It was hand-painted by the fabulously creative Sue at @Past.Imperfect.uk (who, by the way, is available for commissions if you’re looking for something equally bespoke!). I’m pleased to say it found a new home almost immediately.
The Wait
After tidying up and heading home, the "exhibitor’s insomnia" set in. Would the Dicentra hold up? Being new growth, it’s always a gamble. We knew the competition was stiff; the North Midlands standards are incredibly high, with seasoned competitors and very professional arrangers in the mix. But by Sunday morning, it was out of our hands and up to the judges.
Show Day and the Airwaves
Sunday morning was all about the finishing touches before retreating to let the judging panel do their work. It was a great chance to catch up with friends and colleagues, including Treasurer and Evolve Ambassador Di Smith and Area Chairman Andrew Key.
The highlight of the morning? An impromptu visit from Yorkshire Radio. We weren’t going to let that opportunity pass us by! Victoria and I were interviewed by John, and we were especially proud to see Victoria’s daughter—the youngest member in the NMA—getting her moment on the radio too.
LISTEN TOTHE INTERVIEW HERE OR CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON BELOW
It’s been a fantastic showcase for British talent and creativity. Now, we wait for the results... ho hum!
