Friendship Through Flowers
Who are The Northern Ireland Group of Flower Arrangement Society or NIGFAS
Founded in 1973, the Northern Ireland Group of Flower Arrangement Societies (NIGFAS) brings together more than 700 members through flower clubs located across Northern Ireland. Our membership also includes Inspirations, a contemporary floral design group dedicated to exploring creative and innovative approaches to floral art.
We are extremely proud of our talented members, many of whom have achieved distinction at national and international flower shows and competitions. NIGFAS also has a strong network of nationally and regionally qualified judges, demonstrators, teachers and speakers who generously share their knowledge and expertise. Our active JDSE group supports these disciplines by organising training opportunities, practical workshops and inspiring garden visits.
Since becoming part of the UK National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) in 1994, NIGFAS members have made a valuable contribution at national level. Members have served on a variety of NAFAS committees and have held prominent positions, including NAFAS Director, Vice Chairman and National President. Others have been selected to participate in prestigious NAFAS, Royal Horticultural Society and international floral art events.
Our aim is to encourage interest and participation in the art of flower arranging through demonstrations, talks, classes, workshops, competitions, flower festivals and floral design shows. Many of these activities are organised by our welcoming local flower clubs, where new members and visitors can learn new skills, develop their creativity and share their enthusiasm for flowers.
Although NIGFAS is the smallest regional area within NAFAS, the enthusiasm, talent and achievements of our members have made a lasting impression throughout the world of floral art. We look forward to welcoming everyone who would like to discover the creativity, friendship and enjoyment that flower arranging can offer.
Why join your local NIGFAS floral club?
I became a member of Erne Flower Arrangement Society based in Enniskillen over 25 years ago.I really enjoy going to the monthly club meetings where visiting demonstrators are invited. I look forward to seeing the new designs of flower arranging. It is lovely to see the use of colour and variety of foliage used.
I am pleased to say we have a very active committee who contribute a great variety of talents to our club. I, myself, am not a talented flower arranger, but at each meeting I always learn something new, and it is lovely, if you're lucky enough to win a beautiful arrangement to take home!
Esdille
I have been a member of Lower Bann Floral Art Society in Coleraine for over 20 years, and when I look back, I realise just how much being part of a flower club has meant to me.
I can still remember my very first evening. I was greeted at the door with a warm welcome and a friendly smile, and from that moment I knew I had found somewhere special.
Over the years, I have made so many wonderful, like-minded friends. We share a love of flowers, creativity and, of course, plenty of laughter! Flower club is about so much more than arranging flowers — it is about friendship, encouragement, learning and having fun together.
Being a member has also helped to build my confidence enormously. I have had the opportunity to take part in festivals, competitions and demonstrations, and to enjoy many wonderful events and experiences organised through NIGFAS and NAFAS.
There have been opportunities to try things I might never have had the confidence to do on my own, and along the way I have met some truly inspiring and talented people.
For me, flower club has opened the door to friendship, creativity, confidence and wonderful memories. It has been a very special part of my life for over 20 years, and I am so grateful for all the friendships, experiences and happy times it has brought me.
Flower club really is friendship through flowers, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Elaine
Lower Bann Floral Art Society
I really enjoy being a member of Comber Flower Club.
I look forward to their monthly meetings which are varied over the year. We have demonstration, workshops, talks etc. This variation makes it more interesting and encourages everyone to participate and become more involved. My favourite night is when I receive my copy of The Flower Arranger. It is well produced inspiring magazine.
Going to the club is good for my mental health and gives me a chance to catch up with friends. I will always be very greatful for the opportunities Comber Flower Club, NIGFAS and NAFAS have given me.
Joan
Comber Flower Club
Who Are We
JDS&E brings together experienced and aspiring floral art judges, demonstrators, speakers, teachers and educators from across Northern Ireland.
Our role is to support high standards within flower arranging and floral design while ensuring that knowledge, experience and creative skills are shared with future generations.
Working as part of NIGFAS, we help members expand their knowledge, develop their presentation skills and explore new ideas within the continually evolving world of floral art.
