Competitors at The Interflora World Cup have been showcasing their incredible creations as the competition hots up.
Taking place at Manchester Central, the event sees the global elite of competitive floristry go head-to-head in a series of heats.
The first day saw competitors face two rounds. In the first challenge, they were asked to create a floral installation based on the theme ‘Our Forest Canopy.’
The second surprise challenge was bee-themed and saw all competitors provided with identical honeycomb structures and the same selection of flowers from which they made their displays.
Florists from 20 countries from as far afield as Japan, USA, and Germany are being put through their paces in a knockout format over three days.
The event culminates in the grand final on Saturday evening.
A rigorous judging process is run by a team of 14 international judges and adjudicators managed by the International Florist Organisation, Florint. Competitors will be required to demonstrate their interpretation and respect for the planet, focusing on a sustainable ethos and utilizing natural elements.
The competitors will be tested on the four key aspects of good floristry design; idea, color, composition, and technique – with the winner walking away with a £15,000 grand prize.
The nation’s hopes rest with UK entrant Lizzie Newcombe, 26, from Guildford, Surrey.
Lizzie said: “I’m so excited to be representing the UK in the Interflora World Cup this weekend. It’s the world’s most prestigious floristry competition – exceptional florists from around the globe will be battling it out for the title of world champion, all while making the most jaw-dropping floral creations. It’s the pinnacle of competitive floristry, and I can’t wait to experience it for the first time alongside the public.”
The flagship event in competitive floristry happens every four years. This is the first year that it is being held in Britain. Alongside the competition, visitors can also enjoy a fun day out with shopping, live music, entertainment, and floristry workshops.
Interflora’s director of florist services, Nick Priest, said: “Manchester is a vibrant, multicultural city with the most brilliant energy, which reflects the creativity and diversity of our competitors. We’re excited to bring visitors from all over the globe to discover all the city has to offer.”
“The World Cup will be a real spectacle and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see floral designers at the top of their game at work. They will be creating complete works of art on an impressive scale, and our tasks will provide the ultimate test of nerve and skill.”