Recent class reviews
5
For Terrarium Making - Beginner Workshop
Review by Lucy
What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday morning! Chris was aWhat a wonderful way to spend a Saturday morning! Chris was a great teacher giving so many helpful tips on how to build the perfect terrarium. So happy with what I created! ... see full review
5
For Ikebana Flower Arrangement Class
Review by Karen
Setsuko began the class with a history of Ikebana. The two hours were spent using beautiful flowers and foliage, completing 3 different arrangements under the guidance of a great teacher. This class was great value for money, would recommend activity, great even if you have no experience with flowers. ( like me !! ) Thoroughly enjoyed it. :)
5
For Slackline - Walk on a Line
Review by Scott
Really friendly approachable and knowledgable guy. Quickest way to learn just book it!
5
For Ikebana Flower Arrangement Class
Review by Karen
It was great fun arranging the flowers and Setsuko was very encouragingIt was great fun arranging the flowers and Setsuko was very encouraging and easy to talk to- it’s a lovely way to spend some time. ... see full review
5
For Ikebana Flower Arrangement Class
Review by Stacey
The class was fun and I really enjoyed it. We were given 3 chances to try different techniques with different vases. Recommended!
5
Review by Alexi
Interesting and thought provoking. Thank you Iain
4
For Ikebana Flower Arrangement Class
Review by Hazel
A most interesting and creative class - three charming demonstrations by our teacher were enlightening, each creating a totally different effect. A great lesson of less is more. I look at containers and vases now with a very different eye. This lesson - beautiful gift.
5
For Ikebana Flower Arrangement Class
Review by Jean Clarke
The teacher was very friendly encouraging and helpful. Venue was ideal with lots of variety of flowers and foliage and wonderful coffee. Content was just right for a beginner.
5
For Ikebana Flower Arrangement Class
Review by Aaron
Friendly, interactive class. Great teacher and very good value for money
4
Review by Tarja
Lovely one on one experience learning how to screen print. GreatLovely one on one experience learning how to screen print. Great price for the experience, I am keen to continue learning the skills. Carizza certainly know her craft and was a pleasure to work with.
I made a teatowel and with my practise scraps I made this beautiful lamp shade when I got home. Thanks Carizza ... see full review
5
For Terrarium Making - Beginner Workshop
Review by Conor
Absolutely amazing experience, 100% would recommend this claAbsolutely amazing experience, 100% would recommend this class! ... see full review
5
For Terrarium Making - Beginner Workshop
Review by Kristy
I purchased this course as a gift to my team at work, it wasI purchased this course as a gift to my team at work, it was great and enjoyed by all. Chris was patient and an inspiring teacher.
We would definitely do it again! ... see full review
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Popular stories
Make Your Own Terrarium Succulent Garden
Julia Carr-Catzel
Make Your Own Terrarium Succulent Garden
Julia Carr-CatzelPreview
Adorning modern Australian homes and gardens, due to their high-tolerance of testing weather conditions, succulents are the ideal<p>Adorning modern Australian homes and gardens, due to their high-tolerance of testing weather conditions, succulents are the ideal household plant. Teeming with water which is stored in leaves, roots and stems, these low-maintenance plants thrive in sunshine, making them the ideal décor to spruce up a basic veranda or courtyard during the steamy summer months. Alternatively, owners can place succulents indoors, near windows bearing an abundance of natural light.<br />
<br />
Pry through a gallery of frilled, spined and flower embellished succulents to liven up the indoors; opt for pincushion cactei dotted in beautiful hues of pink or perhaps a variegated zebra plant to match household décor. The number of succulent garden compositions are unlimited, choose from colours, shapes and sizes to adorn a bookend, hanging wall frame, wreath, pot, birdcage or terrarium. Not to mention the health benefits of indoor plants, such as the aloe vera plant, which produces cleaner air, lowers the risk of illness, boosts one’s mood and has potential to enhance concentration and memory.<br />
<br />
Despite their low-maintenance reputation, succulents thrive under a balanced upkeep. Refraining from over-watering when attending to your succulent garden, a common mistake among owners who overcompensate with a plant able to tolerate prolonged drought. Instead, make sure to check the soil moisture level with your fingers and water only when dry. Water or mist succulents at least once per week. Allow for time in shade as succulents can burn with exposed to too much sunlight. Use a gentle formula once per month to fertilise. Do not combine succulents with non-desert dwelling plants<br />
<br />
Making your own succulent garden is therapeutic and rewarding activity to fill a morning or afternoon and doesn’t require any prior expertise. Adorning your home with a succulent garden can have aesthetically pleasing benefits for the inside of your home, as well as health benefits. <br />
<br />
The succulent making experience can be shared with others and doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Encourage family and friends to take part in a workshop with <a href="https://classbento.com.au/christopher-saban">Christoper Saban</a>, Creative Director of ‘Merchant and Green’ who conducts beginner workshops in Sydney, catering for plant-lovers looking to design and create their very own succulent garden. Christopher, who has over fifteen years’ experience as a floral decorator and stylist provides all plants and equipment, and caters to all skill levels. Equip yourself with a pyramid or quad glass container, choose from a wide variety of mini succulents, toy with vase river stones, dirty your hands with moss and soil and create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. <a href="https://classbento.com.au/terrarium-making-beginner-workshop">Make a terrarium</a> today.</p>
<p> </p>
...
Preview
Adorning modern Australian homes and gardens, due to their high-tolerance of testing<p>Adorning modern Australian homes and gardens, due to their high-tolerance of testing weather conditions, succulents are the ideal household plant. Teeming with water which is stored in leaves, roots and stems, these low-maintenance plants thrive in sunshine, making them the ideal décor to spruce up a basic veranda or courtyard during the steamy summer months. Alternatively, owners can place succulents indoors, near windows bearing an abundance of natural light.<br />
<br />
Pry through a gallery of frilled, spined and flower embellished succulents to liven up the indoors; opt for pincushion cactei dotted in beautiful hues of pink or perhaps a variegated zebra plant to match household décor. The number of succulent garden compositions are unlimited, choose from colours, shapes and sizes to adorn a bookend, hanging wall frame, wreath, pot, birdcage or terrarium. Not to mention the health benefits of indoor plants, such as the aloe vera plant, which produces cleaner air, lowers the risk of illness, boosts one’s mood and has potential to enhance concentration and memory.<br />
<br />
Despite their low-maintenance reputation, succulents thrive under a balanced upkeep. Refraining from over-watering when attending to your succulent garden, a common mistake among owners who overcompensate with a plant able to tolerate prolonged drought. Instead, make sure to check the soil moisture level with your fingers and water only when dry. Water or mist succulents at least once per week. Allow for time in shade as succulents can burn with exposed to too much sunlight. Use a gentle formula once per month to fertilise. Do not combine succulents with non-desert dwelling plants<br />
<br />
Making your own succulent garden is therapeutic and rewarding activity to fill a morning or afternoon and doesn’t require any prior expertise. Adorning your home with a succulent garden can have aesthetically pleasing benefits for the inside of your home, as well as health benefits. <br />
<br />
The succulent making experience can be shared with others and doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Encourage family and friends to take part in a workshop with <a href="https://classbento.com.au/christopher-saban">Christoper Saban</a>, Creative Director of ‘Merchant and Green’ who conducts beginner workshops in Sydney, catering for plant-lovers looking to design and create their very own succulent garden. Christopher, who has over fifteen years’ experience as a floral decorator and stylist provides all plants and equipment, and caters to all skill levels. Equip yourself with a pyramid or quad glass container, choose from a wide variety of mini succulents, toy with vase river stones, dirty your hands with moss and soil and create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. <a href="https://classbento.com.au/terrarium-making-beginner-workshop">Make a terrarium</a> today.</p>
<p> </p>
...
Top 5 Hens Party Ideas
Julia Carr-Catzel
Top 5 Hens Party Ideas
Julia Carr-CatzelPreview
The relatives have been called, the ring has been swooned-over and a date has been set, an e-mail alerts you to the exciting news<p>The relatives have been called, the ring has been swooned-over and a date has been set, an e-mail alerts you to the exciting news of an engaged friend. As the loyal supporter, you share in the excitement as the bride-to-be eagerly begins her wedding planning: dress-fittings, cake tasting and securing the reception band. Though, whilst drafting cheesy speech anecdotes, you begin to envisage the fated Hens night. Memories of inebriation, fuchsia party hats and latex budgie smugglers in grimy nightclub interiors cloud your enthusiasm of an evening which should be celebratory. Cringe no more, from choreography to cocktails, we’ve provided you with new and improved Hens party ideas, minus the hangover.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>1. Jewellery Making</strong></p>
<p>Any opportunity to wring out those creative juices is as good as any and what better environment to create, than in the company of close friends? Craft and contrast earring designs with founder of ‘Etelage’, <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/christine-smalley">Christine Smalley,</a> who creates beautiful product loyal to her philosophy: quality over quantity. Twist, link and wire-wrap vintage and modern crystals, cameos, stones and brass filigree. Whilst your final product may not make the cut as adornment for the bride on her special day, you will nonetheless walk home with an artisan product superior in originality to store-bought, mass-produced sterling silver.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>2. Dance classes </strong> </p>
<p>Most can attest to the high-value of a good boogie on a girls’ night out. Despite the enticing crowd of hip-rocking and moon-walking glitter embellished bridesmaids, you struggle to ignore the frustrating shrieks of overly excitable girls, belting of sub-par pop and sweaty dance floor, hesitating when beckoned to link arms with the line gravitating toward the dazzling disco light. Remove the nightclub from dancing and enrol in a group dance lesson. Satiate the craving to knock your hips back and forth to your favourite tunes, minus the challenge of navigating a crammed mosh. Strap on those leggings, tie your hair back and perfect choreography to some great hits with the wedding party as mock-rehearsal for the main event. The class will serve as the perfect opportunity to discern which bridesmaid should refrain from the dance floor at reception and who should take centre stage.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>3. Flower Arrangement </strong></p>
<p>Fortunately, flower appreciation and arrangement is not a pursuit limited to wedding receptions, but a form of artistic expression practised. Allow <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/setsuko-yanagisawa">Setsuko Yanagisawa</a>, who boasts over thirteen years’ experience in the floral industry, to revive your love for the often overlooked flora which adorns our homes and sidewalks. Setsuko’s speciality is the Japanese style of flower arrangement called ‘Ikebana’. Fasten and position stems alongside friends in Setsuko’s flower design studio in Sydney’s eclectic Glebe, broaden your knowledge of different flowers and shrubs whilst gaining invaluable insight into an art evolved across centuries.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>4. High Tea</strong></p>
<p>Amidst all the flux of premarital planning, invest in some down time with your closest friends over some tea and cake. Clang charming porcelain and sink tiny forks into orange cake whilst entertaining conversation free of seating arrangement charts. A civilised alternative to a Hens night out, the English custom presents the perfect opportunity to rewind with the bridal party in a respectable setting, for instance a garden or sunlit courtyard, just ensure not to look over your cup when sipping or speak with a full mouth, spilling fuchsia macaroon crumbs all over the table cloth.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>5. Cocktail Making</strong></p>
<p>Whilst jewellery making, dance classes and flower arrangement boast their fair share of positive attributes, they may fail to please those who crave a more rousing Hens night alternative, in other words, involving alcohol of some sort. Cocktail making may just be the perfect party idea. Follow <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/robin-tabari">Robin Tabari</a>, who has shadowed some of the UK’s best bartenders, in learning the theory and practice of cocktail making. Robin’s extensive knowledge of both new world and classic techniques will see you mixing, muddling and shaking-up Cosmos, Margaritas and Mojitos in his <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/mixology-aka-cocktail-making">Mixology </a>workshop. Walk away with a deeper appreciation of your Friday night beverage, or flaunt your newfound knowledge at the wedding reception to drive flirtatious conversation with the bartender. <br />
<br />
Classbento offers many creative and activity based workshops for bridesmaid bonding, opportunities to express oneself and foster new skills, minus the sleaze of a nightclub or confronting lap dance. Our Hens party ideas and many alternatives can be found <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/hens-party-ideas">here</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
...
Preview
The relatives have been called, the ring has been swooned-over and a date has been<p>The relatives have been called, the ring has been swooned-over and a date has been set, an e-mail alerts you to the exciting news of an engaged friend. As the loyal supporter, you share in the excitement as the bride-to-be eagerly begins her wedding planning: dress-fittings, cake tasting and securing the reception band. Though, whilst drafting cheesy speech anecdotes, you begin to envisage the fated Hens night. Memories of inebriation, fuchsia party hats and latex budgie smugglers in grimy nightclub interiors cloud your enthusiasm of an evening which should be celebratory. Cringe no more, from choreography to cocktails, we’ve provided you with new and improved Hens party ideas, minus the hangover.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>1. Jewellery Making</strong></p>
<p>Any opportunity to wring out those creative juices is as good as any and what better environment to create, than in the company of close friends? Craft and contrast earring designs with founder of ‘Etelage’, <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/christine-smalley">Christine Smalley,</a> who creates beautiful product loyal to her philosophy: quality over quantity. Twist, link and wire-wrap vintage and modern crystals, cameos, stones and brass filigree. Whilst your final product may not make the cut as adornment for the bride on her special day, you will nonetheless walk home with an artisan product superior in originality to store-bought, mass-produced sterling silver.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>2. Dance classes </strong> </p>
<p>Most can attest to the high-value of a good boogie on a girls’ night out. Despite the enticing crowd of hip-rocking and moon-walking glitter embellished bridesmaids, you struggle to ignore the frustrating shrieks of overly excitable girls, belting of sub-par pop and sweaty dance floor, hesitating when beckoned to link arms with the line gravitating toward the dazzling disco light. Remove the nightclub from dancing and enrol in a group dance lesson. Satiate the craving to knock your hips back and forth to your favourite tunes, minus the challenge of navigating a crammed mosh. Strap on those leggings, tie your hair back and perfect choreography to some great hits with the wedding party as mock-rehearsal for the main event. The class will serve as the perfect opportunity to discern which bridesmaid should refrain from the dance floor at reception and who should take centre stage.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>3. Flower Arrangement </strong></p>
<p>Fortunately, flower appreciation and arrangement is not a pursuit limited to wedding receptions, but a form of artistic expression practised. Allow <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/setsuko-yanagisawa">Setsuko Yanagisawa</a>, who boasts over thirteen years’ experience in the floral industry, to revive your love for the often overlooked flora which adorns our homes and sidewalks. Setsuko’s speciality is the Japanese style of flower arrangement called ‘Ikebana’. Fasten and position stems alongside friends in Setsuko’s flower design studio in Sydney’s eclectic Glebe, broaden your knowledge of different flowers and shrubs whilst gaining invaluable insight into an art evolved across centuries.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>4. High Tea</strong></p>
<p>Amidst all the flux of premarital planning, invest in some down time with your closest friends over some tea and cake. Clang charming porcelain and sink tiny forks into orange cake whilst entertaining conversation free of seating arrangement charts. A civilised alternative to a Hens night out, the English custom presents the perfect opportunity to rewind with the bridal party in a respectable setting, for instance a garden or sunlit courtyard, just ensure not to look over your cup when sipping or speak with a full mouth, spilling fuchsia macaroon crumbs all over the table cloth.<br />
</p>
<p><strong>5. Cocktail Making</strong></p>
<p>Whilst jewellery making, dance classes and flower arrangement boast their fair share of positive attributes, they may fail to please those who crave a more rousing Hens night alternative, in other words, involving alcohol of some sort. Cocktail making may just be the perfect party idea. Follow <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/robin-tabari">Robin Tabari</a>, who has shadowed some of the UK’s best bartenders, in learning the theory and practice of cocktail making. Robin’s extensive knowledge of both new world and classic techniques will see you mixing, muddling and shaking-up Cosmos, Margaritas and Mojitos in his <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/mixology-aka-cocktail-making">Mixology </a>workshop. Walk away with a deeper appreciation of your Friday night beverage, or flaunt your newfound knowledge at the wedding reception to drive flirtatious conversation with the bartender. <br />
<br />
Classbento offers many creative and activity based workshops for bridesmaid bonding, opportunities to express oneself and foster new skills, minus the sleaze of a nightclub or confronting lap dance. Our Hens party ideas and many alternatives can be found <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/hens-party-ideas">here</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
...
Floristry Workshops Have Hidden Benefits
Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Floristry Workshops Have Hidden Benefits
Sarah Hinds-FriedlPreview
Imagine the lobby of a hospital. White walls, white linoleum flooring, black entrance mat. Bright fluorescent bulbs line the ceilings<p>Imagine the lobby of a hospital. White walls, white linoleum flooring, black entrance mat. Bright fluorescent bulbs line the ceilings of long, branching hallways. Across from the reception desk, a waiting area is furnished with metal bench seating arranged around a black, plastic coffee table. Hanging racks hold magazines and colorful health pamphlets. The news is being silently broadcast from flatscreen TVs hung on the walls.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Everything is sterile, hard, and cold.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now, imagine that when you walk into that same lobby, your eyes are automatically attracted to a large floral arrangement in a clear glass vase sitting proudly on the reception desk. Lightly pink peonies and white lilies are interspersed with green hydrangea, creating a lush, full design that cascades over the sides of the round bowl. Approaching the desk, the scent of the freshly-cut, sweet flowers replaces the harsh smell of disinfectant, and you are tempted to touch the soft petals.</p>
<p><img alt="floristry" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b066de4bf57.jpg" style="height:750px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p>Perhaps, as a patient, you feel more comfortable walking up to the reception desk. Perhaps the receptionist behind the counter has a little more energy and a brighter smile when welcoming clients. Perhaps everyone in the room can breathe a little easier.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you’re a little skeptical of the difference a simple pot of flowers can make in a setting like a hospital, prepare to be surprised. The benefits of floristry are quickly becoming lauded by healthcare professionals and many hobbyists are turning to the activity as a way to improve physical and mental health. To be sure, floristry has always had a special place in Western society, and the best place for a budding florist to start is with the trade’s rich history.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>So, just how far back does this go?</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Human civilization has seemingly always been fascinated by flowers. The history of floral design (1) tells us that Ancient Egyptians decorated their architectural masterpieces with floral designs, while Olympians and Greek warriors were rewarded intricate floral wreaths for victory. We can also thank these societies for the innovation of perfume made from the essence of flowers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The importance of floristry is closely tied to the development of European art, as well. Throughout European aristocracy, nobles and ladies were often painted holding flowers or lounging next to grand flower arrangements. According to historians (2), botanical imagery contained important societal significance as early as the fifteen century, and art dedicated solely to floral design has continued to be popular with artists as renown and worshipped as Van Gogh and Monet. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>So, it’s no surprise that, today, floristry plays an important role in Western society. A wide array of events, from funerals to graduations to courageous acts of love, require the keen and creative eye of a seasoned florist. Even the First Lady of the United States has a close professional relationship with the White House Chief Floral Designer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Why pursue <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class">floristry as a hobby</a>?</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Cultural significance aside, floristry is a fun and beneficial hobby, with some very interesting effects on our overall wellbeing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Consider again the hospital lobby described above. Can we really believe that floristry can positively impact a medical setting? According to scientific evidence coming out of Kansas State University, the answer is a strong <em>yes</em>. Based on a 2008 study (3) of patients undergoing abdominal surgery, researchers discovered that patients exposed to flowering plants and floral arrangements not only reported feeling less anxious, but were recorded to have lower blood pressure and heart rate on the day of surgery and subsequent days of recovery. Similar studies have found higher pain tolerance for patients exposed to floral arrangements.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Given the intensity of surgery, the significance of these findings cannot be understated. For, if bouquets of flowers can help us during our most stressful moments, what can they do for us as a part of our daily lives?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Well, the journal Evolutionary Psycholog<em>y</em> (4) reveals that flowers have both immediate and long-term effects on our mood, increasing happiness and invoking intimacy. Interestingly, men and women <em>both</em> benefit from the presence of floral arrangements, despite social preconceptions of flowers as inherently feminine. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Are there any other perks?</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Excitingly, floristry has a few other hidden benefits as well. As a creative outlet, floral design requires its students to hone in on specific visual arts skills which could improve cognitive processing and memory. For instance, a study (5) from Georgia Southern University revealed by “engaging in a highly creative act, individuals may be able to process information on a deeper level, then generalize to another task”.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In addition to improved brain functioning, floristry offers benefits such as creative expression, enhanced focus on detail, and problem solving. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>What exactly does a floristry class entail?</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>If you’re excited about improving your mental health by learning more about floristry in Sydney, a beginner’s class is a great place to start. Even at a novice level, there are plenty of options to choose from: you can start with a class on home flower arrangements, floristry for special events, or even floral design for <em>very</em> special events, like weddings. <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class">Ikebana flower class</a> at Yugaflora in Glebe and the <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/flower-arranging-workshop">flower arranging workshop</a> with Laura Jade are great places to start your workshop search. They offer a range of pricing and class length, and even provide all flowers and materials to get you started!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Depending on the workshop you attend, a typical introductory class will cover basics, such as vase selection, seasonal pairings, and simple terrarium designs. Most classes are between two and four hours, so be prepared to spend an entire lovely morning surrounded by your favorite flora and fauna. Better yet, invite your friends for an enjoyable social engagement!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>That’s the gist, now find out for yourself!</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>With floristry, the sky is the limit. By simply engaging in the field as a hobby, you can be sure to have access to a creative outlet that is available virtually anywhere in Australia or even the world! You may even start to feel the benefits on your wellbeing after your first workshop.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Or, if your first workshop completely sweeps you off your feet, consider pursuing a certification in the field. What better way to achieve personal fulfillment than to make your floristry hobby into a career!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>References:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) Flowersacrossmelbourne.com.au</p>
<p>(2) metmuseum.org</p>
<p>(3) greenplantsforgreenbuildings.org</p>
<p>(4) aboutflowers.com</p>
<p>(5) digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu</p>
...
Preview
Imagine the lobby of a hospital. White walls, white linoleum flooring, black entrance<p>Imagine the lobby of a hospital. White walls, white linoleum flooring, black entrance mat. Bright fluorescent bulbs line the ceilings of long, branching hallways. Across from the reception desk, a waiting area is furnished with metal bench seating arranged around a black, plastic coffee table. Hanging racks hold magazines and colorful health pamphlets. The news is being silently broadcast from flatscreen TVs hung on the walls.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Everything is sterile, hard, and cold.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now, imagine that when you walk into that same lobby, your eyes are automatically attracted to a large floral arrangement in a clear glass vase sitting proudly on the reception desk. Lightly pink peonies and white lilies are interspersed with green hydrangea, creating a lush, full design that cascades over the sides of the round bowl. Approaching the desk, the scent of the freshly-cut, sweet flowers replaces the harsh smell of disinfectant, and you are tempted to touch the soft petals.</p>
<p><img alt="floristry" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b066de4bf57.jpg" style="height:750px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p>Perhaps, as a patient, you feel more comfortable walking up to the reception desk. Perhaps the receptionist behind the counter has a little more energy and a brighter smile when welcoming clients. Perhaps everyone in the room can breathe a little easier.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you’re a little skeptical of the difference a simple pot of flowers can make in a setting like a hospital, prepare to be surprised. The benefits of floristry are quickly becoming lauded by healthcare professionals and many hobbyists are turning to the activity as a way to improve physical and mental health. To be sure, floristry has always had a special place in Western society, and the best place for a budding florist to start is with the trade’s rich history.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>So, just how far back does this go?</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Human civilization has seemingly always been fascinated by flowers. The history of floral design (1) tells us that Ancient Egyptians decorated their architectural masterpieces with floral designs, while Olympians and Greek warriors were rewarded intricate floral wreaths for victory. We can also thank these societies for the innovation of perfume made from the essence of flowers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The importance of floristry is closely tied to the development of European art, as well. Throughout European aristocracy, nobles and ladies were often painted holding flowers or lounging next to grand flower arrangements. According to historians (2), botanical imagery contained important societal significance as early as the fifteen century, and art dedicated solely to floral design has continued to be popular with artists as renown and worshipped as Van Gogh and Monet. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>So, it’s no surprise that, today, floristry plays an important role in Western society. A wide array of events, from funerals to graduations to courageous acts of love, require the keen and creative eye of a seasoned florist. Even the First Lady of the United States has a close professional relationship with the White House Chief Floral Designer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Why pursue <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class">floristry as a hobby</a>?</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Cultural significance aside, floristry is a fun and beneficial hobby, with some very interesting effects on our overall wellbeing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Consider again the hospital lobby described above. Can we really believe that floristry can positively impact a medical setting? According to scientific evidence coming out of Kansas State University, the answer is a strong <em>yes</em>. Based on a 2008 study (3) of patients undergoing abdominal surgery, researchers discovered that patients exposed to flowering plants and floral arrangements not only reported feeling less anxious, but were recorded to have lower blood pressure and heart rate on the day of surgery and subsequent days of recovery. Similar studies have found higher pain tolerance for patients exposed to floral arrangements.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Given the intensity of surgery, the significance of these findings cannot be understated. For, if bouquets of flowers can help us during our most stressful moments, what can they do for us as a part of our daily lives?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Well, the journal Evolutionary Psycholog<em>y</em> (4) reveals that flowers have both immediate and long-term effects on our mood, increasing happiness and invoking intimacy. Interestingly, men and women <em>both</em> benefit from the presence of floral arrangements, despite social preconceptions of flowers as inherently feminine. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Are there any other perks?</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Excitingly, floristry has a few other hidden benefits as well. As a creative outlet, floral design requires its students to hone in on specific visual arts skills which could improve cognitive processing and memory. For instance, a study (5) from Georgia Southern University revealed by “engaging in a highly creative act, individuals may be able to process information on a deeper level, then generalize to another task”.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In addition to improved brain functioning, floristry offers benefits such as creative expression, enhanced focus on detail, and problem solving. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>What exactly does a floristry class entail?</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>If you’re excited about improving your mental health by learning more about floristry in Sydney, a beginner’s class is a great place to start. Even at a novice level, there are plenty of options to choose from: you can start with a class on home flower arrangements, floristry for special events, or even floral design for <em>very</em> special events, like weddings. <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class">Ikebana flower class</a> at Yugaflora in Glebe and the <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/flower-arranging-workshop">flower arranging workshop</a> with Laura Jade are great places to start your workshop search. They offer a range of pricing and class length, and even provide all flowers and materials to get you started!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Depending on the workshop you attend, a typical introductory class will cover basics, such as vase selection, seasonal pairings, and simple terrarium designs. Most classes are between two and four hours, so be prepared to spend an entire lovely morning surrounded by your favorite flora and fauna. Better yet, invite your friends for an enjoyable social engagement!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>That’s the gist, now find out for yourself!</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>With floristry, the sky is the limit. By simply engaging in the field as a hobby, you can be sure to have access to a creative outlet that is available virtually anywhere in Australia or even the world! You may even start to feel the benefits on your wellbeing after your first workshop.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Or, if your first workshop completely sweeps you off your feet, consider pursuing a certification in the field. What better way to achieve personal fulfillment than to make your floristry hobby into a career!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>References:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) Flowersacrossmelbourne.com.au</p>
<p>(2) metmuseum.org</p>
<p>(3) greenplantsforgreenbuildings.org</p>
<p>(4) aboutflowers.com</p>
<p>(5) digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu</p>
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