Weston Garden Club design workshop focused on creative centerpieces

By Claudia J. Krimsky

Special to the Weston Observer

On. Oct. 28, members of the Weston Garden Club met in the Community Room of the Weston Public Library to attend a design workshop/demonstration. The theme of the session was “nature’s bounty,” and it was led by Garden Club members Kirstin Gollop and Molly Varnau.

Participants were encouraged to bring a minimum of three fresh fruits and/or vegetables and fresh floral material. No faux materials were allowed.They were also asked to bring floral clippers, floral frogs (kenzan) or other tools for support and a suitable vessel – suggestions included unique and/or attractive kitchen-related containers such as colanders, tea cups or pots/pans.

The goal of the workshop – besides inspiring creativity and camaraderie – was to learn how to use fresh floral material and fruits or vegetables to create a freestyle arrangement in a container one would find in a kitchen. This class demonstrated the use of select mechanics and served to motivate those so inclined to participate in the Garden Club’s May 7 Sweet Tray Competition, which is an annual, juried event.

At the conclusion of the event, participants were marveling at the variety and creativity of the finished pieces. Everyone came away with innovative ways to create centerpieces for their own Thanksgiving tables.