As seen in our Top Tips for Participating In Floral Competitions blog, learning the ins and outs of the process is a great way to be prepared to participate in any competition! Now we will look at the Judging side of floristry competitions and the procedures they follow in choosing the winning design.
According to Floristry Competitions, The Ultimate Guide for Competitors, Judges, and Stewards by Linda Owen, there are many procedures that judges must adhere to when tasked with judging competition floristry. There are so many competitions for florists, like the upcoming Interflora UK World Cup in September, and there will always need to be judges! Each Competition will have its own set of guidelines you will have to follow. If you are asked to be a judge for any upcoming competition, here are some tips to help you make the process a bit easier!
Familiarize Yourself with the Criteria
Understand the specific criteria and guidelines provided for the competition. This may include creativity, composition, use of color, floral design techniques, balance, and overall presentation. Determine the theme or concept of the competition and evaluate how well each entry aligns with it. Consider how effectively the florists have interpreted and incorporated the theme into their designs.
Do not be afraid to ask questions as a judge if you are unclear on the rules and regulations for the competition. The association's team members and organizers are here to help! When you face the finished designs, this could save you in the judging process.
Observe Technical Skills
Assess the technical proficiency of the floral arrangements. Look for proper techniques such as wiring, taping, and manipulating flowers and foliage. Pay attention to the quality of the flowers, their freshness, and how well they have been conditioned.
In certain competitions, assessing technical skills is the basis of the judging criteria. It is important to be familiar with techniques commonly used in the industry and how florists can improve on those techniques if not used correctly.
Evaluate Design Elements
Consider the overall design elements and principles utilized in each arrangement. This includes balance, proportion, rhythm, harmony, contrast, and focal point. Assess how well these elements have been applied and if they create a visually pleasing composition.
Evaluate the color palette chosen by the florists and how well it complements the overall design. Consider the range of textures used and how they add depth and visual interest to the arrangement. Harmonious color combinations and thoughtful use of texture can greatly enhance a floral design.
Consider Creativity and Originality
Look for innovative and unique approaches to floral design. Assess how creatively the participants have used flowers, foliage, containers, and accessories. Originality and out-of-the-box thinking should be appreciated, but ensure the design remains appropriate and aesthetically appealing.
The competition florists love to create designs that have never been seen before using unconventional materials in their designs! As a judge, step into the florist's shoes to get a feeling of their concept and the materials they chose. After all, they do spend months planning their design, so there are tons of thought into every material!
Pay Attention to the Details
Step back and evaluate the overall impact of each entry. Assess how the arrangement catches your eye from a distance and the immediate impression it creates. Look for entries that create a strong visual impact and draw you in for a closer inspection.
Examine the level of detail and finishing touches in each design. Pay attention to elements like cleanliness, precision, and neatness of the arrangement. These small details can significantly enhance the overall impression of a floral design.
Provide Constructive Feedback
After assessing each entry, offer constructive feedback to the participants. Highlight both the strengths and areas for improvement in their designs. Encourage participants to continue developing their skills and offer suggestions for further enhancement.
It is important not to be biased with entries and to treat everyone with the same level of respect. Competitions bring a lot of florists outside of their comfort zones, and they want to improve if they are lacking in particular areas.
Masterclass with Karen Barnes
