To move from the colorful fall to winter is a different mindset for many people. Not that the colors completely disappear from the landscape, but it's all a bit more subtle and monochromatic. For florists, especially those who want to work more sustainably, that can be a challenge. Getting into the shell of nature, the bare branches with larch or pine cones, the evergreen greenery, mosses and dried tendrils - it takes some adjusting.
In the theme of 'Luxury in harmony with nature', connectedness with nature plays a leading role. The arrangers have often opted for traditional techniques and natural materials. The look is one of grandeur and exclusivity; festive yet understated, serene yet cozy and warm.
We meet Gábor Nagy during Férie Florale in the Landcommanderij of Alden Biesen in Belgium, where he is busy preparing for his demonstration. 'I am in Alden Biesen for the first time. But Belgium has a very special place in my heart because I won my first international competition here in 2017, Eurofleurs, the European Championships for Juniors.'
The floral industry breathed a sigh of relief when Be-Florist, the Belgian trade association, decided to breathe new life into the major flower event in Alden Biesen: New Beginnings was born. Those who could be there enjoyed it. For those who could not be there or want to reminisce, we bring a short review of a first successful edition.
Nowadays, we are swimming in abundance. The range of flowers and plants has become seasonless. A tulip in September and a sunflower in January. Foodies who are sensitive to sustainability question this and seek seasonal connection. This is not so easy in the winter period. It requires an extra eye for the never-decreasing beauty of nature. The beauty of bare branches becomes visible.
There is no doubt that our sector has come under heavy fire lately in terms of sustainability. At the beginning of October, the news broke: 'Florist's work in France proves fatal: first link between pesticides and child's death demonstrated'. Shortly afterwards, the municipality of Zutphen appeared in the press: 'On the initiative of the Party for the Animals, the municipality no longer gives flowers as gifts because a majority of the municipal council believes they are not sustainable.'
The YU-event of Yuverta took place on Wednesday, October 9th, at the new school location in Roermond. This event not only marked the launch of the intermediate vocational education program in Flower, Greenery, and Styling at this location but also the special collaboration between education and the business community. The sustainable school building and the inspiring activities symbolize the future of vocational education, with the students at the center.
In October 2024, four students from Lentiz mbo Oostland and Lentiz mbo Westland, together with teachers Anja Olijhoek and Karin Pasman, traveled to China for a special study trip. The trip, organized in collaboration with the China Urban Agriculture Vocational Education Group, was a unique opportunity for both students and teachers to immerse themselves in Chinese floral art and educational structures. In addition, the students participated in an international floral art competition, where they were able to compete with their Chinese peers. It was a learning experience full of cultural exchange, new techniques and unforgettable moments.
In the heart of Paris, we meet master binder Jean-François Boucher-Odent in the Bernardaud porcelain shop. Jean-François has been the floral scenographer of the special French Loire castle Chenonceau for more than ten years, which is built over the water of the river Cher and is famous for its beautiful gardens.
From the square outside, an atmospheric illumination can be seen through the large windows of the Grote of Lebuinuskerk in Deventer on November 13th. Inside, the church is transformed into an intimate festive location for the Floral Event Winter Wonders. Two stages are connected by a catwalk and form the stage for the three floral designers who, at the invitation of the event team, will provide a number of demonstrations of stunningly beautiful arrangements in winter atmospheres. All this to inspire the floristry world that has flocked in large numbers.
While flower shops are currently busy preparing for Christmas 2024, Messe Frankfurt is already presenting the Christmasworld and Ambiente Trends 25+. These trends for the 2025 holidays are all about responsibility, connection, and optimism. The three themes come together in new designs, natural materials, and colors that are close to nature.
Upon entering, visitors are immediately struck by the pleasant and convivial atmosphere of the Trade Fair Aalsmeer. The beautiful presentations of plants and flowers add substance to the profession. While there aren't a plethora of groundbreaking innovations, the event provides an excellent and enjoyable overview of the versatility and strength of the Dutch floricultural sector.
