Floral Design Classes

We offer a variety of courses, classes, and lectures in floral design. You may enroll in any of our programs that appeal to you, or you may wish to pursue our Certificate of Merit in Floral Design. All classes (other than the special lectures) are hands-on, with plenty of individual attention.

Certificate of Merit in Floral Design

To receive the certificate, you must complete the following requirements:

• Five core courses
• Minimum of seven elective credits
• One floral lecture
• Pass the exam

Enroll in the Basic Floral Design course to begin the certificate program. The other core courses may be taken in any order after completing the Basic Floral Design course. Students may complete the certificate courses in any time period. Fees for floral design courses include flowers, arranging materials and containers unless otherwise noted. Courses have limited enrollments. Students should bring floral scissors to each course session.

Core Courses (offered each spring & fall)
Basic Floral Design
Basic Floral Design II
Advanced Floral Design
Advanced Floral Design II
Introduction to Ikebana

Elective Courses
A minimum of seven elective credits is required for the certificate program. These courses are scheduled seasonally.

Floral Design Certificate Lectures
Your attendance at one floral lecture (typically held once a year) is required for the certificate program.

Floral Design Certificate Exam
When you have completed the core courses, the seven elective credits, and one lecture, you will be eligible to take the certificate exam which consists of a written test, identification of flowers and materials, and requires you to make an arrangement in a designated advanced
style. A review session will be scheduled prior to the exam.

Floral Design Courses:

Basic Floral Design

with Jane Godshalk

DATE:  Saturdays, Sept 6 – 20. 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
FEE:  $299 passholder; $309 non-passholder. Lunch provided 
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDB1D

Floral Design Core Course Whether you are beginning your journey toward a Certificate of Merit in Floral Design or  just want to learn techniques for arranging flowers you cut from your garden or buy at a shop, this class will start you on your way to building basic floral design skills. In this hands-on course, you will learn the fundamentals of  floral design and create traditional style arrangements, garden style and parallel designs, designs in glass, and a garland. Each arrangement will fill your home with beauty as you learn to condition flowers, and handle floral foam, tape and wire.
Inclement weather date for winter session: Mar 25. Please bring floral scissors to each session. Fee includes containers, flowers, and supplies.

Basic Floral Design II

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Wednesdays, Oct 15 – Nov 19. 6:00 PM to 9:00PM
FEE:  $299 passholder; $309 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDB2E

Floral Design Core Course
Expand your floral design knowledge and capabilities as you explore historical floral designs such as Biedermeier style arrangements, formal linear, topiary techniques, hand tied bouquets, and corsage making. More advanced studies in the care and handling of fresh flower materials will also be covered. Innovative designs you take home after each session will continue to improve week by week.
Please bring floral scissors to each class session. You will receive a container list at the first class.

Advanced Floral Design

with Jane Godshalk

DATE:  Tuesdays, Sept 2 – Oct 14. 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
FEE:  $349 passholder; $359 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDA1E

Floral Design Core Course
This course expands your floral skills and gives an introduction to historical and international floral design. The designs you will complete in this course include: vegetative style landscape, sheltered, Phoenix, New Convention,  abstract, and cascade or waterfall. Refine your knowledge of many techniques, such as basing, wiring, taping, use of chicken wire, binding and banding, as you work with a variety of plant materials. Jane not only demonstrates each  style, she teaches the elements and principles that guide it. Every week you will leave with one or more designs you created using newly learned skills.
Inclement weather date: March 26. Bring floral scissors to each session. Containers for the first class will be provided and a list of containers to be brought by students for the next classes will be distributed at the first class.

Advanced Floral Design II

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Wednesdays, Oct 15 – Nov 19. 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
FEE:  $349 passholder; $359 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDA2A

Floral Design Core Course
Advanced techniques learned in this class will prepare you to create your own design signature. Some of these advanced techniques include: a mille de fleur design (bouquet of a thousand flowers); designing without oasis which allows for the use of clear glass containers and underwater designs; floral sculptures using fruits and vegetables; and an exploration of emotions through the use of four spheres of design. Get ready to experiment in this exciting six week course. Using a variety of exceptional flowers and greens each week, you'll take home sensational designs and pride in your floral accomplishments.
Please bring floral scissors to each class session. Containers for the first class will be provided and a list of containers to be brought for subsequent sessions will be distributed.

Introduction to Ikebana

with Midori Tanimune

DATE:  Saturday, Oct 4. 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
FEE:  $149 passholder; $159 non-passholder. Lunch provided 
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDIID 

Floral Design Core Course
Ikebana is the Japanese form of arranging flowers. Ikebana values discipline, a concept of peace, knowledge of rules and style, and an idealized approach to nature. Spend a day learning the basics of Ikebana with experienced instructor, Midori Tanimune. She will explain the fundamentals of this traditional Japanese art form. Using fresh flowers and greenery you will create graceful, elegant designs that exude a sense of beauty, balance, and well being.
Please bring floral scissors, and 2 shallow containers 10" in. diameter and 2”-3" tall.

Certificate of Merit Graduation
Thursday, Oct 30
Since 1979, over 1,400 students have realized the accomplishment and satisfaction of completing the courses necessary for the awarding of the Certificates of Merit in Ornamental Plants or Floral Design. And since that time,  Longwood has been making a fuss over these graduates because we know what it takes to reach this level and accomplish this task. We will be hosting a graduation ceremony at one of our spring and fall evening lectures. To check on your eligibility or to confirm how close you are to completing Series I or II or the Floral Design Series, call 610-388-1000 Ext. 559. 

Natural Wood Sculptures

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Saturday, June 21. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $80 passholder; $89 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  081FDWSM

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Think of nature as art. Nancy will show you how to create a sculpture with natural wood pieces and then design  flowers to complement the wooden form. You’re going to love these unique designs! This style is different than anything we have ever done before. It combines less formal floral styles with the simplicity of nature. Be sure to wear old clothes, as we will be working with cement and rebar. Bring your cutters and a favorite piece of driftwood  if you have one. Driftwood will be available in the class.

Principles of Color

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Friday, Aug 15 – Saturday, Aug 16. 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
FEE:  $269 passholder; $289 non-passholder. Lunch  provided daily 
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDPCD

Floral Design Elective - 2 credits
The difference between an average creation and one that is extrodinary is often found in color. Explore the role of color  sing a spectrum of flowers, greens, and fabric backgrounds in this two-day retreat. Properties, psychological  effects, and harmonies of color will be discussed. Color is a central part of any floral design and students will create beautiful designs in prescribed hues and harmonies. You’ll never look at color the same way again!
Please bring floral scissors and two clear glass 6”-8" bubbles or bowls to the first class.

Breathtaking Bouquets

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Friday, Sept 26 – Saturday, Sept 27. 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
FEE:  $269 passholder; $289 non-passholder. Lunch provided daily
WHERE:  Acer Room  
CODE:  082FDBBD

Floral Design Elective - 2 credits
Two full days of bridal bouquets! Venture beyond the basics in bridal flowers as you create unique bouquets, use unusual flowers, and learn ways to trim handles and overlay materials. Nancy will also explore the techniques for the newest trends in bouquet accents and cascade styles. You’ll learn ways to cut the labor costs normally associated with the production of the new trendy designs and have the opportunity to create your own signature style of breathtaking bouquets.  Completion of the Comprehensive Wedding Design course is required. Bring floral tools, containers will be provided.

Shades of Autumn

with Jane Godshalk

DATE:  Saturday, Oct 11. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $80 passholder; $89 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDSAM

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
The rich colors and textures of autumn flowers and foliage lend themselves perfectly to seasonal floral designs. Learn how to condition and preserve fall leaves and foliage, select the proper vase or basket, and how to coordinate the elegant shades of autumn in combination with gorgeous fresh flowers and greens. All levels of experience are  welcome.
Please bring cutting tools and a vase or basket about 10” in diameter.

Trick or Treat Designs

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Saturday, Oct 18. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $80 passholder; $89 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDTTM

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
This is not your mother’s pumpkin arrangement! Let’s kick off the Halloween season with a truly innovative design. We’ll start with wire and mesh and lots of pumpkins and combine them with fall’s attractive flowers to make a scary holiday treasure. Your Halloween decorations will take a back seat to this trick-or-treat design, so don’t be scared  - come join the fun! All levels of expertise welcome. Bring cutting tools.

Ikebana Designs for Autumn

with Midori Tanimune

DATE:  Saturday, Oct 25. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $70 passholder; $79 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDABM

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
After mastering the basics in the Introduction to Ikebana course, come learn why you will want to make Ikebana a  life-long pursuit. This class gives you the opportunity to learn new techniques while combining natural components such as small vegetables and fruits with floral accents. You will create a cohesive arrangement on a tray, basket or wooden base. The arrangement you take home will celebrate the fall season in a whole new way. Introduction to Ikebana (or the equivalent) is a prerequisite for this course. Bring a shallow tray, basket or wooden bowl and floral scissors.

Floral Design Certificate Exam

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Saturday, Nov 1. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $95 passholder; $99 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDCEM

When you have completed the core courses, elective courses, and required lecture, you will be eligible to take the certificate exam which consists of a written test and the identification of flowers and floral design related materials. You will also be required to create a floral design in a designated advanced style. Upon receipt of your registration, we will verify your eligibility. You may attend a review session on October 15 from 5:00 to 6:00 PM. Bring floral scissors to the exam.

Pennock Company Tour

with Jane Godshalk

DATE:  Thursday, Nov 6. 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM 
FEE:  $62 passholder; $69 non-passholder
WHERE:  Visitor Center Parking lot
CODE:  082GTPCA

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Start your holiday decorating with new ideas and purchases from the Pennock Company, one of Philadelphia’s leading flower wholesalers. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to tour their facility, which is not normally open to the public. Learn how they purchase, prepare, and store fresh flowers. We will also tour their extensive design supply, silk and dried flower, and container departments where we will see the operation of this business in action. This is a popular annual trip and a great opportunity for you to shop and/or open accounts after the tour. The bus will leave the back of the Main Visitor parking lot promptly at noon (brown bag lunches are welcome) and return by 5 pm. Please bring a warm coat, you will be touring coolers kept at 37°F.

Paired Altar Arrangements

with Jane Godshalk

DATE:  Saturday, Nov 15. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $80 passholder; $89 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room 
CODE:  082FDAAM

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Master the techniques to create beautiful altar arrangements. This course will cover the ordering, conditioning, and arranging of flowers for use on a religious altar. You will work with a partner in this session to make two  complementary arrangements which you may then take home or to your place of worship. Bring a partner for arranging or join up with someone in class. Please bring to class cutting tools and a pair of containers suitable for an altar, such as solid color or metal urns or vases 12”-18” tall with 6”-8” openings.

Mums the Word

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Saturday, Nov 22. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $80 passholder; $89 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDMWM

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Chrysanthemums have long been recognized as a traditional sign of autumn. These flowers are hardy, long lasting, and   available in a wide array of varieties and colors. Using an assortment of mums and other autumnal accessories, Nancy will guide you in creating a centerpiece for the Thanksgiving holiday that will last for a long time. You will be surprised at how pretty and trendy this old favorite can be. All levels of experience are welcome. Bring your favorite centerpiece container for this design.

Celebrating Japanese New Year

with Midori Tanimune

DATE:  Thursday, Dec 4. 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
FEE:  $70 passholder; $79 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDNYE

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Celebrate the Japanese New Year with Midori, as she shows you how to create a beautiful Ikebana design, using the traditional components of pine and bamboo. The grace and simplicity of this Ikebana-style design is sure to add a  special touch to your holiday decorating. Introduction to Ikebana (or the equivalent) is a prerequisite for this course. Please bring a shallow container, kenzan, and scissors.

Holiday Wreath Making

with Nancy Gingrich Shenk

DATE:  Friday, Dec 5. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $100 passholder; $109 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDHWM 
OR  
DATE:  Saturday, Dec 6. 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
FEE:  $100 passholder; $109 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDHWA

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Creating wreaths for the holidays is a favorite tradition. This popular course offers students new ideas for making beautiful holiday wreaths, with examples that range from traditional to contemporary. Students will use a variety of seasonal greens and cones provided by Longwood to create a wreath that will be a festive addition to your home this holiday season. Please bring pruners, 4 yards of your choice of ribbon for a festive bow if desired, and any other holiday embellishments.

Holiday Centerpieces

with Jane Godshalk

DATE:  Saturday, Dec 13. 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
FEE:  $110 passholder; $119 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDHCM

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Delight your family and friends with a dramatic centerpiece for your holiday table. Jane will show how to create a  stunning design using holiday greens and fresh materials. Best of all, your centerpiece will last throughout the  holiday season by the addition of different flowers and accessories. Please bring to class cutting tools and some small accessories or ornaments to enhance your "table scene" design.

The Gift of Flowers

with Jane Godshalk

DATE:  Saturday, Dec 13. 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
FEE:  $110 passholder; $119 non-passholder
WHERE:  Acer Room
CODE:  082FDGFA

Floral Design Elective - 1 credit
Would you like to make arrangements that are fun to give to friends and family and not too difficult to transport?  Then, join Jane to create three unique designs that are guaranteed to bring joy to your friends and are easy and fun to create. A gift box, bag, and small vase will go home with you, each filled with beautiful holiday flowers. Holiday gift shopping has never been easier…or more fun! Please bring floral scissors.