Master Florist crowned as 10 000 visit city Flower Show
THE INAUGURAL Cape Town Flower Show came to an exciting end yesterday when the first Master Florist winner was announced.
Dane Erwee, who has been been in the florist industry for more than 16 years, was crowned Master Florist and received R20 000 in cash and a newly minted coin with an endangered South African flower species imprinted on it.
“I am extremely excited about winning because this is the first time I have ever entered a flower competition. I heard about it through social media and I asked all my colleagues to also take part in this event,” said Erwee.
Erwee, who does not view himself as a professional even after being in the industry for over a decade, felt floristry was the big winner because the event gave the industry exposure and also taught more people about it. “We get to showcase our creativity to the rest of the world. I also pledge my full support for the event and I hope it reaches greater heights.”
According to show director, Karey Evett, the event which started on October 27 saw about 10000 people visiting the Flower Show, which was held at the Castle. “We need to motivate those who have a talent for flowers, and the Castle, which is commemorating 350 years, was the perfect place to host such an event,” said Evett.
The event also showcased landscaping with visitors treated to 20 exhibition gardens, many of which were water wise.
“Contestants were asked to use indigenous fynbos and proteas to push the boundaries in terms of where floristry is going in the future. The winner’s representation of the theme was breathtaking; it was structurally different from anything I have ever seen,” said Evett.
She plans to expand the show nationally in future and hopes to make it an international event.