A WEDDING and special event florist based just outside Odiham has launched a new flower school.

Jay Archer, who runs Jay Archer Floral Design, in Farnham Road, aims to educate and spread awareness of the thriving industry.

In classes taught personally by Jay, students will be encouraged to forget the norm, experiment and explore their creativity, using locally sourced seasonal British flowers where possible.

Jay said: “There are so many unknown varieties of flora and fauna grown in this country, as well and exciting grasses and even moss, which can be used to create dramatic, beautiful arrangements. It’s just that many people aren’t aware of the options.”

Recognised internationally for her natural, abundant and eclectic designs, Jay is a huge advocate for British growers and the slow flowers movement.

And this week she is one of five handpicked florists to front British Flowers Week, which is a campaign organised by New Covent Garden Market.

The talented florist, who was winner of the Hitched Breakthrough Award for Best New Wedding Florist in 2012, was shortlisted for three awards last year – New Covent Garden Market Awards Florist of the Year, Perfect Wedding Florist of the Year, and the National Wedding Awards.

Jay has teamed up with Claire Brown of Surrey-based Plantpassion and Rosbie Morton, owner of The Real Flower Company based in Petersfield with the school.

“At the flower school, we’ll show students how to get creative with all manner of materials so they can see the huge potential in ethical and contemporary flower arranging,” said Jay.

“We hope by spreading awareness that demand will increase and more growers like Rosbie and Claire can expand and diversify.”

She hopes the school will not only inspire and empower students but also educate new and existing florists about the British flower industry and the huge variety of home-grown and seasonal alternatives to classic blooms.

“There’s such a wonderful community of growers and wedding florists, in particular, who should use this as an opportunity to support them by recommending seasonal alternatives to brides who insist on peonies in November,” said Jay.

To find out more visit jafdflowerschool.com.