The Journey That Led Judith Blacklock To Her Accredited Flower School In Knightsbridge
Contributions From JUDITH BLACKLOCK
Judith is the author of eighteen best-selling books on flower designs, arrangements and recipes - and is known for teaching at events including the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. She opened Judith Blacklock Flower School in Knightsbridge in 2001, which is accredited by both the British Accreditation Council (BAC) and the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). Judith is a Fellow of the Institute of Horticulture.
Judith Blacklock is the Founder of the Judith Blacklock Flower School; a Floral Designer, Teacher and the Author of eighteen best-selling books.
Judith, a Fellow at the Institute of Horticulture, leveraged her profound expertise to contribute to design projects at prestigious locations such as Kensington Palace and Oxford College.
I had the pleasure of speaking with her and finding out a little more about her route into horticulture – and the journey that led her to opening her much-accredited Flower School in Knightsbridge.
Imagery in this article has been provided with permission by Judith Blacklock.
How Did You First Get Into Gardening?
“After moving back to the UK from France, I lived in a house with absolutely nothing in the garden,” Judith shares.
“That was when I started gardening myself as I wanted to do something with the space.
“Having said that, I did grow up with a background where the garden was very important.”
From That, What Led You To A Career In Horticulture?
“Growing up, my mother was very into flowers. She was an amateur flower arranger, but it did take over her whole life.
“When I was 16, she had me carrying buckets around the Chelsea Flower Show. I made a vow to myself then that I’d never do anything with horticulture or flowers.
“Clearly times change, and once I started myself, I was absolutely hooked!”
When Did You First Decide To Open Your Flower School?
“After I had completed my qualifications, I was asked to teach at Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College, where I taught for 14 years,” Judith explains.
“I am more of a practical person and I became tired of the paperwork that went along with that job, so I started a small flower school in a local scout hut. I was really happy there, but I knew that if I ever wanted to be successful, I had to move to a place that people were happy to travel to.
“I was offered this flower school in the heart of Belgravia in Knightsbridge and it is the most idyllic location you could ever imagine. I just knew that I had to take it.
“However, to set up a business like this you need money and it’s not always easy. Unfortunately, I had recently lost my father, but with the little money he left for me, I was able to get started. I think he would have approved of this move.”
You’ve Written 18 Books. Do You Have A Favourite Of These?
I loved writing ‘Church Flowers’ because I had input from all over the world and it’s a book that hopefully won’t ever age!
“‘Wedding Flowers: A Step-By-Step Guide’ is another that I’m still fond of, as well as ‘Flower Arranging: A Complete Guide For Beginners’.
“Finally, I love ‘Buying and Arranging Cut Flowers’, as it describes flowers, the colours available, when they are available and what to do with them. It is a little spiral-bound book and is not expensive, so it’s one I always recommend.”
What Are Some Of Your Standout Career Moments?
“I’ve done so much that I’m grateful for that it’s hard to pick.
“I organised flowers at Kensington Palace in aid of breast cancer care. I did that twice and it was a huge success.
“I also organised flowers at Chicheley Hall and the University of Oxford. These were both part of the largest contemporary kept-flower events ever seen in this country. People came from all over the world. I don’t know how I did it when I look back!
“Being the publisher and editor of Flora magazine was another highlight for me, as well as being asked to travel the world with flowers.”
What Current Projects Are You Working On?
“I’ve just finished Belgravia In Bloom, which was another highlight, too,” Judith shares.
“Belgravia in Bloom runs annually alongside the Chelsea Flower Show.
“We created a tunnel of orchids and were supported by Double H Nurseries, who grow indoor plants. We used 1,000 UK-grown orchids provided by them and it was absolutely spectacular.”
What Would You Say To Those Wanting To Experiment With Cut Flowers?
“Have a strong back and be passionate!” she laughs.
“It’s hard work, but if you’ve got the passion, nothing else will do.”
