🎄 Crafting Joy at Our Christmas Wreath Workshops. Q&A with Jane Sked ✨

Welcome to an exclusive interview with the talented Jane Sked, a renowned local floral artist and instructor. Jane's passion for floristry has not only led her to become a qualified florist but also on a journey toward achieving her Master Diploma in Floristry. In this short Q&A, we'll delve into Jane's inspiring journey, her unique approach to crafting enchanting Christmas wreaths, and the heartwarming stories and moments that have unfolded in her workshops. Join us as we discover the artistry, creativity, and community that flourish in Jane's world of holiday wreath-making.

Question 1: What inspired you to initiate Christmas wreath workshops, and how have they transformed over the years?

Answer: As a certified florist currently pursuing my Master Diploma in Floristry, my journey into the world of flowers began with a simple desire to adorn my own home with beautifully crafted wreaths during the Christmas season. The wreaths I created drew the admiration of friends and acquaintances, sparking their curiosity and requests for guidance on crafting their own. What initially commenced as a modest endeavor at my kitchen table rapidly evolved into a larger-scale and highly enjoyable venture.

Question 2: What materials and elements do you consider the most enchanting when crafting a Christmas wreath, and do you have a personal favourite that you incorporate as a signature touch?

Answer: In my Christmas wreath designs, I'm particularly enamored with scented botanical elements like spruce, bay, rosemary, and eucalyptus, as they infuse a delightful aroma into the arrangement. Additionally, I find that adding cinnamon sticks and dried citrus fruits lends an extra layer of festive charm to my creations. If I had to pick a personal favorite, it would be the aromatic blend of these elements, which has become somewhat of a signature touch in my wreath-making process.

Question 3: Christmas wreath-making can serve as a wonderful activity for families to bond during the holiday season. Are there any heartwarming stories or moments from your workshops that stand out to you? And do you have any recommendations for involving children in the creative process?

Answer: Absolutely! I've had the joy of witnessing the magic of family involvement in my wreath-making workshops. In fact, I've had the privilege of hosting multiple generations from the same family in a single class, and it was truly heartwarming to see them come together and create. One of the youngest participants I've had was a talented 10-year-old who joined her mother in crafting wreaths. Even if young children may find intricate decorations a bit challenging, it's delightful to provide them with some festive stems and ribbon, perhaps to decorate a simple jam jar. This simple activity not only gets them excited about the botanical elements central to a traditional Christmas celebration but also allows them to be a part of the creative process. It's a great way to instill a love for the holiday traditions at an early age.

Question 4: Christmas is often considered the season of giving. Have you ever had a participant create a wreath with a particularly heartwarming or charitable intention in mind?

Answer: Indeed, I've been touched by the generosity and thoughtfulness of many participants in my workshops. It's heartwarming to witness individuals crafting wreaths with a specific purpose in mind. One common and incredibly touching gesture I've seen is when participants create wreaths for their elderly parents or for residents of a care home. These acts of kindness and selflessness truly embody the spirit of the season and make the wreath-making experience even more meaningful.

Question 5: For individuals attending your Christmas wreath workshop for the first time, what can they anticipate in terms of the overall experience and the wreath they'll create to take home?

Answer: When newcomers join my Christmas wreath workshop, I always assure them that they're in for a delightful surprise. It's absolutely true. With my guidance and the array of festive botanical materials at their disposal, they consistently leave with a decoration they can take immense pride in. Witnessing people tap into their creativity and craft something beautiful is a truly heartwarming experience. What's even more special is the sense of community that blossoms during these workshops. Each wreath crafted is unique and brings joy to both the creator and those around them. It's a wonderful celebration of individuality and creativity.

If you've been inspired by Jane's story and the enchanting world of wreath-making, don't hesitate to book your spot in one of her upcoming workshops on Friday 8th (5pm) or Saturday 9th December (10am) at The Old School. Join us in experiencing the joy of creating your very own festive masterpiece!