St. Margaret’s Parents Create Flower Arrangements in Valentine-Themed Ecology Center Workshop

St. Margaret’s parents gathered at The Ecology Center for a Valentine’s Day floral arrangement workshop this week. It was the third in a series of seasonal workshops planned in conjunction with the Parent Up Speaker Series which this year focuses on mental health and well-being. The workshop was arranged by Parent Up Speaker Series Chair Carrie Quintanar.

 

After enjoying coffee and pastries, participants learned about growing and harvesting flowers. During a tour of the grounds, Amanda Mahaffey of The Ecology Center explained the environmental impact of cut flowers, often harvested prematurely, sprayed with a preserving agent and exported to other countries via refrigerated airplane holds, resulting in large carbon emissions. Ms. Mahaffey highlighted the many benefits of purchasing flowers grown locally. 

 

Afterwards, resident florist Carra Duggan demonstrated how to create a whimsical arrangement using flowers grown at The Ecology Center including statis, stock, strawflower, anemone, snapdragon, blackberry, ranunculus and English ivy. St. Margaret’s parents selected materials and created their own unique arrangements, enjoying the gathering, spending time in nature and strengthening their mental health and well-being.

St. Margaret’s has a longtime partnership with The Ecology Center, which has included service learning projects, field trips and other initiatives.

The next Parent Up Speaker Series is scheduled for March 18 featuring Dr. Drew Ramsey, while the PTF’s next workshop at the Ecology Center is planned for March 23 and will have a culinary focus. Stay tuned for more details.