How One Workshop Helped Shape Bloom 2026

Behind every successful floral display, competition piece, and wearable design at Bloom 2026 was something often overlooked but incredibly important: education.

Just one week before Bloom opened its gates, members of the Institute of Flowers gathered at Tanners Foliage Farm for a special wearable floristry workshop led by internationally respected floral educator Diana Toma. What followed was far more than a day of creating beautiful floral headpieces. It became a catalyst for creativity, confidence, and collaboration that would have a lasting impact on Bloom 2026.

Learning From One of the Best

As COO of the European Master Certification (EMC) programme, Diana Toma is recognised across Europe for her ability to teach floristry in a way that is both inspiring and practical. Her approach focuses on understanding mechanics, structure, movement, and the importance of strong foundations in design.

Throughout the workshop, Diana challenged participants to think differently about wearable floristry. Rather than simply creating decorative pieces, members explored balance, construction, stability, and how flowers interact with the body. Every participant was encouraged to experiment, question their methods, and push beyond their comfort zone.

The atmosphere throughout the day was one of excitement and discovery. Experienced florists worked alongside newer designers, sharing ideas and learning from one another while Diana guided them through the creative process.

The Ripple Effect at Bloom

The impact of this workshop became clear almost immediately.

Many of the florists who attended went on to volunteer and create at Bloom 2026, applying the techniques and confidence gained during the training. Following the success of this workshop, we are delighted to share that Diana will return on the 12th of July to deliver another inspiring workshop, offering even more opportunities for florists to learn from her expertise and continue developing their skills. The wearable floristry showcased throughout the festival demonstrated stronger mechanics, greater creativity, and a deeper understanding of floral design principles.

The workshop also played an important role in preparing participants for the Institute of Flowers Floral Fashion Competition. Designers arrived at Bloom with fresh ideas, stronger technical skills, and the confidence to create pieces that truly pushed the boundaries of wearable floristry.

Visitors to Bloom saw the finished designs, but behind every floral crown, botanical accessory, and competition piece was a group of florists who had invested in their own learning and development.

Building Skills Through Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of the workshop was watching the floristry community learn together.

Education has always been at the heart of the Institute of Flowers. By creating opportunities for florists to work alongside internationally recognised educators, we are helping to raise standards across the industry while building a stronger and more connected community.

The workshop demonstrated exactly what can happen when talented florists are given access to world-class training. New friendships were formed, confidence grew, and ideas that started in a classroom setting were brought to life on one of Ireland’s biggest public stages.

Thank You to Tanners Foliage

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Tanners Foliage for hosting the workshop and providing such a welcoming environment for learning and creativity.

Their continued commitment to supporting Irish floristry and professional development makes opportunities like this possible. The beautiful surroundings of the farm provided the perfect backdrop for a day dedicated to innovation, learning, and craftsmanship.

Thank You to Positive2Work Skillnet

Most importantly, this workshop would not have been possible without the continued support of Positive2Work Skillnet.

Through their investment in professional development, hundreds of learning opportunities have been made available to florists across Ireland. Their commitment to upskilling, innovation, leadership, sustainability, and business development is helping to create a stronger future for the floristry industry.

The success seen at Bloom 2026 is proof that education matters. When florists are given access to high-quality training and mentorship, the results are visible not only in their work but in the confidence, professionalism, and ambition they bring to our industry.

The wearable workshop with Diana Toma was just one day of training, but its influence could be seen throughout Bloom 2026. From award-winning designs to the creativity showcased across the festival, it demonstrated the power of learning, community, and investing in the future of floristry.

And for the Institute of Flowers, that future has never looked brighter.