Talks
I have a wealth of experience in the horticultural and floral world and this is shared fully in my talks. My talks are accompanied by beautiful colourful images taken thanks to my incredible access to the top nurseries in the country whilst the plant buyer at Hilliers. I bring my own projector, computer, table and extension cable, all you need to provide is a projection screen or suitable wall to project on to.
Choose a talk to suit your audience from gardening to flower arraging, floristry and vintage vases. Image by kind permission of Kent Floral Art
My talks cost £150 for NAFAS affiliated flower clubs and all other Horticultural Clubs, U3As, WI’s, (and all other organisations that are not flower clubs), and £300 for non NAFAS affiliated flower clubs, plus mileage at 55p per mile. Do contact me for date availability.
****NEW****. “The Vase Lady”
I have a real passion for vintage flower vases. Step inside my world and find out why. Learn how mantle vases originally came about, who made them fashionable, how they were made, learn about the designers behind the stykes, which vases to look out for, how to spot a good one and learn which ones you should have an eye out for.
What People Say
“Thank you so much for your wonderful talk today. We found the subject very interesting and your help with queries very useful”
Contact us here to talk about available dates
If you would enjoy it I can bring a small selection of fabulous vintage vases and arranging accessories with me for you to have a little shopping session before and after the talk.
“Chelsea Secrets”
This is a special sneak look to see what goes on behind the scenes at The Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower Show. I have been part of 25 Hillier Nurseries’ Gold Medal winning gardens, helped build Show Gardens, Trade Stands, RHS “Special Features” and competed in the Floral Art competition winning three gold medals myself plus I am now a senior RHS judge chairing a judging panel at Chelsea.
If you haven’t had me to talk to you before then this is the best talk to start with.
What People Say
“Thank you so much for such an illuminating talk. I think most of us knew that designs and exhibits at Chelsea took months to prepare but I don’t think we realised how much was involved! It wasn’t just “follow a design” you had all the problems that went with it and the detail needed was phenomenal.”
“What a great way to start the year and liven up our AGM “
“Your pictures of how a garden is put together, the amount of equipment, aggregates, mechanics and sheer manpower is incredible. It is fascinating to see it slowly come together.”
Thank you for your wonderful talk. I’ve had so many lovely comments since with people saying how interesting it was and how much they enjoyed your relaxed and engaging manner.”
“Our best talk EVER!”
“China”
Sent by the RHS to judge a floral design competition as part of an International jury, this is my story of this wonderful adventure including pictures of the stunning designs created in the competition, behind the scenes insight into the organisation and judging of International competitions and a wonderful glimpse of the beautiful country of China.
What People Say
“Thank you so much for your talk last night. I have had such positive comments back from members. It opened our eyes to a fascinating area of the globe and to the hard work and dedication of all those involved in organising these amazing flower events. We look forward to seeing you again.”
“We so enjoyed our trip to China with you on Monday evening. Thank you for entertaining us with fascinating facts, amusing stories and fabulous arrangements.”
“Thanks for the super talk last night”
“Climbers”
I wrote a book on climbers and wall plants and they have always been a great love of mine since discovering how well planted our waterside garden in the beautiful county of Cornwall was. This talk runs through how climbers climb and why you need to know this, how and when to prune them and choosing the best ones for your particular spot. Clematis, Roses, Wisteria, Honeysuckle and many more favourites are all included.
What People Say
“It is so good to have a speaker who is enthusiastic on the subject and you certainly are.”
“Garden Snippets”
Learn about interesting plants for flower arrangers and gardeners. Shrubs, perennials, bulbs, climbers and annuals all feature. Texture and colour take centre stage with beautiful images.
What People Say
“Thank you for a very enjoyable presentation, it was very informative for all of us mad flower arrangers.”
“Can I say a big thank you for your talk. A full house for us and I think I can safely say that everyone really enjoyed listening to your “must have” plant list and learning more about all of those plants. I certainly learnt stuff I didn’t know before!”
Contact us here to talk about available dates
“The Road To Winchester”
Join me on a journey from first accepting the job of Creative Director for Winchester Cathedral Flower Festival to opening night and beyond. Take every step with me and join in the triumphs and trials. The pandemic threw up all sorts of unexpected problems but the teams worked together to get the Festival completed in record time.
What People Say
“Thank you so much for that amazing talk you delivered to us on Tuesday evening. You and your team were amazing achieving almost the unthinkable despite all the service backs. We felt we were part of the experience. Wrapped in it. So emotional. Nothing but praise from our members. “
Contact us here to talk about available dates