Decorations & Sympathy

This class teaches students how to create poignant floral arrangements for a variety of life’s events. This class will empower students to feel prepared to work with clients and produce beautiful pieces for different moments. This class will focus on creating wreaths, aisle runners, mantelpiece designs, as well as sympathy flowers like casket saddles and ceremony pieces. The class will work through how to breach sensitive topics and work through project planning & follow-through. These skills are invaluable for budding florists learning how to take on any design projects that may be outside the box.

In this class, students will create a {1} casket spray design as well as a {2} holiday wreath with mixed greenery and florals.

About the Instructor: Calvert Crary, Executive Director of FlowerSchool NY & LA

An internationally recognized instructor and mentor, Calvert has taught programs across the United States, Holland, Mexico and Australia. He hasbeen invited to design tables at the prestigious Orchid Dinner at The Plaza Hotel, spoken to Garden Clubs across America, and served as a judge at the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show. Calvert has trained and coached thousands of students on how to work in the floral industry with top designers, start new businesses, or reorganize existing floral businesses into thriving careers.

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In addition to his teaching and leadership roles, he is the author of influential books on floral design, including Flower School: A Practical Guide to the Art of Flower Arranging, and has co-authored The Encyclopedia of Cut Flowers. He was featured in The New York Times “Sunday Routine” section this past July 2025.

Explore More Classes with Calvert Crary

What you can expect:

• 1 Day of Class (allowing a lunch break)

• Detailed instruction from a Floral Design Master

• Hands-on experience creating two large-scale and popular sympathy flower designs

• Floral aprons, tools, and other supplies will be provided for use during this program. Please note that personal sets of supplies to take home are only included with enrollment in our 2-Day Introduction to Design Series.

What you will learn:

• Creating a multitude of specific, professional, and thoughtful arrangements

• Choosing the appropriate message to convey through the language of flowers, ensuring that sentiments are expressed thoughtfully and respectfully

• How to interact with clients who are seeking sympathy flower services, understanding their needs and preferences

• Mastering the art of crafting a classic wire and form wreath, a versatile piece that can serve as a centerpiece, adorn festive occasions, or be a poignant tribute at funeral ceremonies