Flower Arranging
The present Flower Arranging Team was formed under the guidance of Hugh Flower almost ten years ago (c 1990). Fr Hugh trained at Kew and had a Diploma in Horticulture so he was very knowledgeable about plants and flowers. His enthusiasm was infectious and he encouraged us all to be adventurous in our church arrangements. Sadly for us, Fr Hugh was transferred to Merstham Parish about 7 years ago but his enthusiasm lives on in the team.
The present team is 14 in number with mixed ability. The Team Leader is Paulette Bowyer who can be contacted on 01372 741116 (sorry no e-mail or web site!). We are always looking for new members. You don't have to be a professional florist just enthusiastic and willing to learn.
Several of the team members belong to Flower clubs i.e. Epsom Garden Flower Club which meets on the first Thursday of every month (except January) at 7.30pm at Christ Church Hall, Christchurch Road, Epsom or May Day Flower Club who meet on the third Wednesday of the month at Bourne Hall, Ewell, 2-5pm. Both these clubs stage demonstrations most months where you can gain a vast amount of knowledge and ideas from the frequent-visiting Area and National demonstrators. Both clubs provide regular workshops and visits to other clubs. An interesting way of meeting people with like interests.
Most of the team's work revolves around the Church, including special services such as Christmas, Easter, weddings and First Holy Communion services. We are also asked to do arrangements for various parish events during the year.
St Joseph's recently (2000) came second in the Diocesan Flower Arranging Competition entered by two of our members, Paulette Bowyer and Anne Ridge.
It is an exciting time for the team as our new Church is nearing its completion, our talents will be stretched even more with a very modern church to decorate with modern striking designs, yet keeping the traditional aspects of flower arranging always in our hearts.
See also:
Flower Festival 2001