In (for this) December of 2021, I won the nationwide “British Christmas Tree Growers Association” creative competition to supply, make and present a festive wreath to Number 10 Downing Street, beating over 45 suppliers and growers to the top spot for the second time.
Using materials and stock from my local Christmas Tree supply farm (Friezeland Christmas Tree Farm) (And with their dedicated support for the second time running) we went for a noble pale foliage (which is very hardy for the milder weather), and thanks to my skill as an accomplished wreath creator, this looked amazing.
Accompanied with red decorative fayre; berries (large and small), red baubles, roses, eucalyptus (brown and green), pine cones and cinnamon sticks, this wreath really stood out from the rest.
“On the day it came to hang the wreath my husband and I drove up to the gates and we were getting very nervous! Even though it was the second time”. Says Stephanie.
I actually made 2 Christmas Wreaths (the other one for Number 12). The first wreath for Number 10 took about 50 minutes to make and the second one took me about 35 minutes to make. We had to be careful that the right colours were used and that the theme was neutrally correct, but seasonal at the same time and different of course to the first time I’d won. It was also nice to add a bit of Leicestershire to one of the most famous doors in the country! (We’ll try for blue in the future!)
The BCTGA (British Christmas Tree Growers Association) competition is a well-respected and competitive event within the Christmas tree grower and creative industry, and to win it is a real achievement to get recognition for fabulous work. The BCTGA competition is known for its fierce and high standards. It draws participants from all corners of the UK, from seasoned professionals to new and emerging talents. My first victory in 2019 marked the start of something extraordinary. I’ve done this twice now – Will it be Number 3 for Number 10 too? Watch this space!
It’s been a surreal experience seeing the Christmas Wreath on the door; on the news and on social media since (especially in these challenging times). We’ve even got a shot of Larry the Number 10 cat in front of the wreath!
