Themes
Believe it or not, your garden may provide all the
inspiration you need to carry out a wonderful themed
retreat or conference. Not only does a garden theme
lend itself to a wide array of subjects such as
"Growing in Him" or "I am the Vine," but it also
provides a bounty of inspiration on a limited budget.
Here are some ideas for decorating the entrance,
stage, and tables.
Decorating the Entrance
Consider what your guests will see as they first enter
your venue. If space permits, set up a large, striking piece
such as a garden cart, wheelbarrow, or bird feeder at the
entrance. If the feeder is on a shepherd's hook, stand
it in a hay bale or large bucket or sand. Add bags of
mulch and potting soil, potted mums, or rosebushes with
garden tools and garden gloves. Round out your display
with a coiled water hose or sprinkling can. The combined
effect will be a warm and inviting one.
Decorating the Stage
Typically, the next area of attention will be the stage.
Again, think large. Set up trellises or a length of white
picket fencing lined with ferns. Often, for a nominal fee
and mention in your printed program, your local garden
center will loan palm trees and large potted shrubs. Many
of these items may be situated at your registration table,
as well.
Decorating the Tables
For smaller areas such as dining or buffet tables, consider
using groups of birdhouses arranged at various levels on
beds of fresh sod or artificial moss. For added effect,
add life-sized birds, butterflies, or stone "garden
critters" such as rabbits, squirrels, or frogs.
For tabletops, select terracotta pots of various sizes.
Into them tuck seed packets and small garden tools.
Weave grapevine throughout. Potted plants make great
table favors for your guests to bring home with them.
Use a label to make personal "place cards" for each pot,
replacing the typical "care and feeding" stakes that
come with each plant. Add baskets filled with vegetables
and leafy green produce from the market.
As you can see the ideas are endless. Simply allow your
mind to wander over the fertile landscape of
garden-related ideas. Enlist the help of others, too.
You're sure to come up with ideas that will make your
retreat, and your friendships, blossom.
Submitted by:
Sandy Maddox, Conference Speaker
Treasures of Heart and Home
941-746-3558 or 888-868-1558
Sandy@treasuresofheartandhome.com
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