Flower Arranging at Lakeside Haven: Create a Christmas Floral Centrepiece
Few activities kick-start the festive spirit quite like gathering fresh flowers and foliage from the garden to dress the Christmas table. In this practical, two-hour workshop, Secret Gardens host Joanne Leigh breaks down the construction methods, proportions, and plant selections needed to create a balanced, long-lasting centrepiece for the Christmas table.
Jo will begin with a demonstration covering practical mechanics—how to build a stable base, select hardy foliage that holds up out of deep water, and integrate seasonal blooms, candles, and ribbons securely. A key focus will be dining proportions: designing an arrangement that makes a strong visual impact down the centre of the table without obstructing sightlines or conversation among guests.
Following the demonstration, you will work with a curated selection of fresh garden foliage, festive florals, candles, and accents to assemble your own table centrepiece with Jo on hand to offer guidance and technical feedback.
All materials, tools, and accessories are supplied. The session is open to all skill levels, whether you are trying floral construction for the first time or looking to refine your techniques using garden-grown material.
What you'll need
Everything you'll need is supplied at this workshop.
Tutor
JOANNE LEIGH: The creative force behind Lakeside Haven, Jo is a lifelong grower with a deep respect for seasonal rhythms and hands-on experimentation. She brings practical horticultural know-how and an exceptional eye for colour and composition to her workshops. Her design instincts were sharpened by an extensive study trip through classic English and French landscapes, where the sophisticated planting palettes of Sissinghurst, Hidcote, and particularly Monet’s Giverny left a lasting mark.