Being creative with nature

Yet, since setting up his own business almost 15 years ago, Adam has become one of the most sought after florists in the region. His floral arrangements are works of art in their own right and he rarely plays by the rules or follows fashion. Instead he is guided by his creative imaginings, the natural world and his clients’ desires and personalities.

Growing up on a farm just outside Sedgefield in County Durham, much of Adam’s childhood was spent outdoors and he has a great appreciation for nature. He is keen to encourage today’s youngsters to swap video games for more wholesome outdoor activities and believes flower arranging is something that girls and boys can enjoy.

On Saturday, September 20, he will host a free workshop and competition to introduce children to the art.

“These days we live in a very materialistic, commercial society, driven by money and the latest gadgets,” says Adam.

“I think some people have forgotten how nice it can be just to go for a quiet walk in the countryside. I have always loved being creative and I think combining creativity with an understanding of nature is something that can really benefit children.

“For me, flower arranging is all about freedom. It is a way of expressing myself and I feel very lucky to work with a raw product as beautiful as flowers.

“I hope to show children just how fun it can be.”

Adam first discovered his talent for flower arranging at the tender age of ten, when he entered a competition at Sedgefield Show.

The popular agricultural event offers a range of competitive classes for children and - having already enjoyed some success with his wheat and chickens- he was keen to branch out into more creative classes.

His first arrangement, Going Green, was inspired by recycling and comprised a candle in a terracotta pot surrounded by berries and greenery from his garden.

Each year, Adam entered a more ambitious arrangement and it was not long before he realised it was more than just a hobby; it was his passion.

On leaving school, the green-fingered teen enrolled on a floristry and horticulture course at Houghall College, near Durham City. The course covered everything from creating and maintaining beds and borders, to garden design, flower arranging and growing organic fruit and vegetables.

Adam then began working at Carl Banks Florist in Yarm, where his talents blossomed further. But it was a commission from Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield, that gave him the confidence to set up his own business.

As word of his talent spread, the bookings flooded in and he is now busy with weddings, christenings, funerals and other events throughout the year.

His workshop, a converted barn on the family’s farm, is alive with bright colours and inviting scents. There are flowers everywhere but they are not the only wonders to marvel at. Pointing at a pink tree, Adam says: “We created a wishing tree at a wedding recently so guests could write messages on little cards and hang them on the branches.”

Turning to his left, he picks up a laboratory measuring beaker, which was reinvented as a vase for a party hosted by a leading cosmetics brand.

Recycled tea pots and an array of colourful glass bottles are further testament to his fun side.

Yet, despite the freedom Adam enjoys, there is one master he must obey, Mother Nature.

“I rarely use anything but seasonal flowers and I grow a lot myself,” says Adam. “I can’t understand why anyone would want to import flowers when there are so many beautiful varieties here.”

The flower arranging workshop, at RE, an upcycling shop in Corbridge, Northumberland, takes place on Saturday, September 20, from 10am to 5pm.

Participants can bring finished displays or can make them on the day, with judging taking place at 4pm.

Flowers and foliage will be available but people are welcome to bring their own.

To reserve a place, contact adamprestflowers@gmail.com