A couple of weeks ago I got an order for a botanical purse – I've made many for weddings and events. But this time there was a specific request: it needed to last for a long time. Succulents were the answer – but there were some new mechanics involved, because simply gluing the succulents on the purse frame, was not going to keep these little guys alive. Their little roots needed to be in soil!  As I have a shade garden, I don't have much experience with growing succulents. After some research I finally came up with a solution for this project. It took quite a while to finish it, but I learned a lot and know that next time it will go much faster!

photos: Françoise Weeks Studio

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This was one of 3 flower garlands that I made for an event. So many  spring flowers and textures to select: from the bold peonies to the delicate columbine.  And here are some others: astrantia, scabiosa, kangoroo paws, weigelia, viburnum, blueberries, cerinthe, kale, sweet william, cymbidium, black baccara roses, leukodendron, amaranthus, succulents, moneyplant, thistle, ferns, …

photos: Françoise Weeks Studio

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The WCWP meeting, organized by Becky Timmons with No Ordinary Affair, took place at Methven Vineyards. As always, it was a great networking opportunity!

Thank you Paul Rich for the great pictures!

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Woodland arrangements for 50th Birthday party at the  Ecotrust Building.

Coordination by Mindy with Class Act

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Joni Photo

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Joni Photo

Learn the ‘secrets’ of European flower design: how to create natural looking designs with stunning color palettes and layered textures. We’ll also share tips in buying, picking and conditioning fresh flowers and greens. You will create a colorful arrangement of seasonal   flowers, berries and fragrant herbs!

            Monday, June 4                                                           6:30 – 9:00pm   $75

Call to reserve your space @ 503-236-5829

https://francoiseweeks.com/seasonal-design-classes/flower-arranging-for-beginners-2/

The hands-on classes are limited to 8 students per class and are conducted at Françoise’s Studio – 2754 SE 33^rd Place.  Prices include flowers, supplies, use of tools, and best of all, your creation goes home with you!  Receipt of your check (or payment with Paypal) for the full tuition secures your place in the class.

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photo: David Barss

photo: David Barss

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photo: Rebekah Johnson

Small arrangement in my mother’s first bronzed shoe

Joni Photo

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photos: Elijah Park, Joni Shimabukuro, Ted Mishima

In this new workshop on Botanical Couture  you will learn the mechanics behind creating sumptuous designs that mimic objects in our everyday lives. Ornate purses, shoes and headpieces will expand the way you think about flowers! Françoise shares the techniques she has honed in the creation of these beautifully-crafted floral designs. To stand alone as centerpieces or to be worn as an elegant fashion statement, these couture pieces delight and amuse.

This class offers practical, hands-on experience that will further develop your own skills and repertoire and increase your confidence to think outside the box. After a demonstration of floral techniques and mechanics, you will design your own pieces. You will hone your artistic talents, and will be encouraged to listen to your intuition and further your own vision. Classes are limited to five students to ensure valuable individual attention.

Dates: Monday June 11, Tuesday June 12  and Wednesday June 13

Time: 9am til 4pm (1 hour lunch break)

Where: At Françoise’s Studio

Cost: $1,100 – A 50% deposit is requested to reserve your space; the balance is due May 28.

For more information, please call 503-236-5829 or check my website

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