Jumpstart the Holidays
Floral Artistry’s Christmas in October workshop and gala show guests it’s not too early to start planning for season
When it comes to hosting holiday get-togethers, it pays to be prepared—and being ready early is the hallmark of a successful host or hostess. To inspire party planners, Floral Artistry, known for its exquisite floral designs on Sanibel and Captiva islands, has created Christmas in October, a twofold event that includes a floral workshop and an evening gala. This year’s event is scheduled for October 12 at The Community House on Sanibel.
THE WORKSHOP
For anyone who appreciates decorating with flowers, Christmas in October is an opportunity to have a hands-on learning experience. Mark Frank, a master floral designer from the Netherlands, teaches the design class, which is limited to 20 people. Participants are encouraged to let their creativity flow and make their very own centerpieces. Frank then offers tips on how to redesign them with a Christmas theme. He will also present and demonstrate the latest floral designs and techniques in Christmas decorating at the evening gala.
Workshop participants are welcome to display their festive arrangements at the evening gala before taking them home, or they can have them delivered the following day.
All the necessary tools and materials for the workshop are provided, along with refreshments. Because of last year’s demand, Floral Artistry plans to hold two design classes this year; the second workshop is October 11. The cost is $115. Any donations to help support the event are appreciated.
THE GALA
The Christmas in October gala itself is an opportunity for guests to not only have an enjoyable evening, but to get acquainted with vendors who offer goods and services for entertaining. The event was created to provide those who attend with plenty of inspiration for their holiday planning and to give them the opportunity to prebook musicians, photographers, caterers, bakers and other services.
For vendors, the event is a great showcase for their products and services, as well as an opportunity to go one-on-one with future clients. Vendors will also be selling gift items, and wrapping will be available. “We welcome every business and hope that many will join us this year,” says Jana Telecka, owner and senior designer of Floral Artistry and one of the organizers of Christmas in October.
“Join us for a festive evening filled with inspiring ideas.” —Jana Telecka, Floral Artistry owner and senior designer
Last year the musical group Jade Strings welcomed guests who sipped on champagne provided by Bailey’s General Store and enjoyed edible delights prepared by local caterers. Guests were then led into the Founders Room through an archway beautifully decorated with flowers by Floral Artistry. The room was transformed into an enchanting venue with tablescapes, trimmed trees and floral arrangements strategically placed throughout the space. Each tablescape had its own individual design and appeal, and guests were treated to a plethora of festive decorating ideas.
A lovely Christmas tree dressed and donated by Floral Artistry was on display in The Community House, and it remained there for the entire holiday season. Guests left the gala with handmade ornaments created especially for the festivities by the designers at Floral Artistry.
Telecka expects this year’s Christmas in October to be just as much fun as last year’s event. “Join us for a festive evening filled with inspiring ideas,” she says.
Past participating vendors included: Floral Artistry, The Community House, Bailey’s General Store, East Fork Creek Gardens, Exclusive Affair Party Rentals, Favi Cakes, Jade Strings, Jamie’s Cuisine, KC Weddings and Events, Neubek Photographers, Paper Fig Kitchen and Steve Farst Live Entertainment. Proceeds from the event went to support The Community House.
Tickets to the 2019 Christmas in October gala are $15 (advance purchase) and $20 (at the door). Guests are encouraged to RSVP online at sanibelcommunityhouse.net (select Calendar and Oct. 12). Tickets are also available at Floral Artistry, 2400 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel. Vendors interested in participating should contact Floral Artistry at 239-472-3040.