This is the "Special Occasion arrangement" Satomi Takahashi did for the Emperor's Birthday reception at the Public Trust hall in March this year. The event was attended by 300 guests and officials.

Our December 3rd workshop will be held in the Khandallah Town Hall from 2 until 4pm. Setsuko will demonstrate arrangements for celebrations from Book 5, lesson 11, and Book 4, lesson 19.

The theme for the workshop is Celebrations. "The idea is to show that the arranger joins in the celebration mood by means of ikebana."

 ‘Celebration’ includes any seasonal festivals, Christmas, Easter etc.  Consider the colours of your material and the shape of your arrangement. A spreading wide open fan shaped arrangement is supposed to symbolise a prosperous future and increasing good luck.

Pine branches represent longevity, good fortune and steadfastness. Pine is commonly linked with virtue and long life.

The use of Mizuhiki (paper strings) is effective for arrangements as they add to the special atmosphere.

"Whenever you get a chance, make an arrangement from your heart for those celebrating the occasion."