Reasons to be Cheerful: Flowers and Fairies by Vicky Edwards

I have been the lucky recipient of two beautiful bouquets recently. They have given me so much pleasure. Every time I see or smell them, I smile. Even when I haven’t been caffeinated.

Working on weddings and funerals I get to see some pretty spectacular flowers – there are some seriously accomplished florists in our corner of West Sussex. One such talented lady is Eve from Eve’s Elegant Florals. Chatting to her about seasonal flowers, with me idly wondering about trying my hand at creating an arrangement or two at home, she was full of fascinating tips and information for floral fabulousness as we head into autumn and winter.

She told me: “There’s such a beautiful selection of winter flowers to choose from. Hellebores, anemones, tulips, ranunculus, alstroemeria and amaryllis all bring something special to a winter arrangement. You can also add seasonal foliage, berries, ivy, rosemary, holly and eucalyptus to create a beautiful, full English country garden look. Many people don’t realise that eucalyptus is actually at its best during the winter months.

“Winter has its own beautiful colour palette, from rich burgundies and deep reds to crisp whites and fresh greens. These tones create arrangements that feel both seasonal and effortlessly elegant.”

And to keep flowers fresh for as long as possible, Eve says: “Always remove any leaves that sit below the waterline, as these can cause the water to become cloudy and encourage bacteria. Keep arrangements away from direct sunlight, heat sources and draughts, and change the water daily to help your flowers stay fresh and beautiful for longer.”

To extend the joy that flowers bring I’ll definitely be following Eve’s tips.

And remember that you really can buy flowers for yourself – you don’t have to wait to be given them. Be your own cheer-bringer! Because, in the words of botanist and horticulturist Luther Burbank: ‘Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food, and medicine for the soul.’

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Talking of things to lift the heart, I saw A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Festival Theatre last week. What fun! Relocated to the Sussex Downs during the illegal pop-up rave scene of the 1990s, it was an absolute hoot. With a fabulous set and costumes too, bouquets are certainly due to directors Justin Audibert and Hannah Joss and their company for a job brilliantly, colourfully and very cleverly done.

Eve’s Elegant Florals: www.eveselegantflorals.com Photo: Lucy Davis Photography

A Midsummer Night’s Dream bookings: www.cft.org.uk

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