Britain’s top florist to compete in Europa Cup

Mother’s Day is one of the busiest time for any florist, however, in 2020, June will give March a run for its money for one florist.

Caroline Crabb, who teaches floristry at Duchy College Rosewarne, alongside running her own business Fleurtations, is set to have a very exciting and memorable year as she prepares to represent Great Britain at the Europa Cup 2020 in Poland (now postponed to 2021).

The former floristry student from Duchy College Rosewarne, won British Florist of the Year 2019 last June and as a result has been entered to represent team GB.

“The Europa Cup has been held every four years since 1967 and brings together the very best competitive florists from around Europe and beyond,” Caroline explained.

“The designs we create will generate future trends and great innovations, as well as showcase professional floristry to a wider audience across the globe.”

However, to get to the competition and supply all the equipment and flowers needed for the heats can be very costly. Each of the 27 participants from around the World will have to create six designs, three on the first day and three on the second.

“Whilst it’s an incredible honour to represent the country and take part in this competition, it does come at some expense and it’s down to me to raise the majority of funds needed,” Caroline explained.

Caroline has won numerous awards for her exceptional and well-recognised skills, including three silvers and one bronze at the Chelsea floristry competition in the past and this international competition is shining light on her first-class skills.

“Only a small percentage of florists work well under timed, live competitions and I am lucky that my studying and working in a shop has stood me in good stead for these type of events,” she explained.

“I have always been a fast worker and I think that stemmed from college when I would do my work quickly and correctly so I could move onto to the more fun tasks.”

Carol Knight, Head of Campus at Duchy College Rosewarne, said everyone was “extremely proud” of Caroline’s achievement.

Her work is beautiful and creative which we are able to see throughout her learning and teaching,” she continued.

“To have such a great talent within the College who is able to share her skills with the students is fantastic.”

If you would like to donate any money to Caroline for her Europa Cup journey please email caroline.crabb@duchy.ac.uk