Interflora Floristry World Cup 2023
Manchester 9th September 2023
What an incredible Experience.
We are thrilled to have had the privilege of attending the Interflora World Cup Manchester Central Convention Complex , and We thrilled to share with you our remarkable day at this world-renowned event. As floristry tutors, this experience was nothing short of extraordinary, and it rekindled our passion for the art of floral design.
The Interflora World Cup is the pinnacle of artistic floral design competitions, drawing talented florists from every corner of the globe. There were 20 Countries represented & the atmosphere was charged with creativity, and the scent of blooming flowers filled the air.
Walking through the competition arena was like stepping into a wonderland of petals and colour and design. The sheer diversity of designs, ranging from traditional to avant-garde, was awe-inspiring. This year competitors were asked to concentrate on sustainability and natural materials, because the theme is ‘our natural world’.
We couldn't help but be amazed by their interpretations, the array of colours, shapes, and textures that these world class florists brought to the stage.
Through each round competitors were faced with tough tasks under strict time conditions. Some challenges they’ll knew in advance so they could prepare, others were surprise tasks on the day that really needed quick thinking and innovation.
The Interflora World Cup is known for pushing the boundaries of floral design, and this year was no exception. Competitors showcased innovative techniques that left us all in wonder. From intricate wirework to mesmerizing water arrangements & magical magnets these floristry artists pushed the limits of what can be achieved with flowers and foliage.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this competition is the celebration of cultural diversity. Florists from all over the world brought a piece of their heritage to the stage. It was fascinating to see how different cultures interpreted the language of flowers and integrated their traditions into their designs. Each arrangement told a unique story, evoking emotions and memories.
Floral Fundamentals stole the show with their exceptional ambassadors demonstrating designs throughout the day, and the lovely Morgan Nuth MC’ing thoughout. It was wonderful to see Reka Kurtos from Annie Bloom here in Dublin 18 representing the Irish contingency of Floral Fundamentals.
Name That Flower !!
A special highlight of the day was seeing Alison Bradley, founder of Floral Fundaments, who is on the cusp of retiring ( she says !! ) having a beautiful pink Gerbera from Holstein Flowers named after her. It was such an emotional moment, Alison has done amazing work within the International Flower World.
As floristry tutors, we often find ourselves teaching and guiding others in their floral career. But attending the Interflora World Cup was a humbling reminder that there is always more to learn and explore in this art form. The intricate details, the creative problem-solving, and the dedication of these talented florists have reignited my passion for floral design.
Beyond the fierce competition, there was an overwhelming sense of reverence for nature throughout the event. Every design, no matter how avant-garde, paid homage to the beauty and wonder of the natural world. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our environment and the role florists play in nurturing and celebrating it.
The crowning moment of the Interflora World Cup was the grand finale where the winners were announced, which we got to watch live online in the taxi on the way home from the airport. Norway and the UK were in our top 3 all along and we were deligted that the super talented Elizabeth Newcombe took the 3rd place, Lisa Paalsson from Norway took 2nd and Nicolaus Peters from Germany was crowned Number 1 in the world
Winner of the 2023 Interflora World Cup
Nicolaus Peters from Germany, Nicolaus actually used porcupine quills in his Bridal Bouquet piece
Our experience at the Interflora World Cup in Manchester was nothing short of incredible. It reminded us of the boundless possibilities that exist in the world of floral design and the importance of pushing artistic boundaries. We returned home exhausted and excited with great memories and also with renewed inspiration to share with our students.
As a floristry tutor, I encourage all of you to immerse yourselves in the world of floral design. Attending events like the Interflora World Cup, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and let the beauty of flowers inspire your creativity. Remember, the art of floristry is a journey, and there's always room to bloom
These are just some of the people we had great pleasure in meeting on the day
A thoroughly enjoyable, inspirational and motivating exhausting day was had by both of us, we were one to the first there and the last to leave. If it is a career in flowers you are thinking about, please do get in touch, we would love to chat.
Janette & Deirdre xx
Janette & Deirdre exausted after a day at the Interflora World Cup in Manchester