In early December, I was invited to photograph a festive wreath making workshop at Shoreditch House in East London, part of the Soho House group, led by florist Ann Lai of Double Happiness Studio.

The space was filled with people ready to slow down, get creative, and make something beautiful with their hands. Ann started by showing everyone how to build the base of the wreath, and then it was straight into choosing from piles of gorgeous seasonal foliage, dried citrus, ribbons, berries, and textured florals.

From a London event photography point of view, this kind of workshop is such a joy to capture. People chatting, concentrating, laughing, and helping each other out around the table. Hands covered in greenery, scissors everywhere, half-finished wreaths taking shape. It felt relaxed, creative, and fun. I met so many lovely people, including an 86 year old woman attending with her daughter and granddaughters for her birthday!

Ann moved around the room offering guidance where needed, while still giving everyone the freedom to do their own thing. No pressure, no perfection, just people enjoying the process. Exactly the kind of relaxed and creative atmosphere I love documenting.

I focused on capturing a mix of wide shots showing the buzz of the room, close-up details of the textures and materials, and candid moments of people fully immersed in what they were making. Those in-between moments that really tell the story of an event.

A huge thank you to Ann and Double Happiness Studio, and to Shoreditch House, for having me along to photograph such a lovely festive event. It was a joy to be there! Next year I’m coming along to make one myself.