Announcing the winners of the 56th International Bouquet Competition on the theme: 'Flowers in Motion' - 10 and 11 May - Yacht Club de Monaco

S.A.R. la Princesse de Hanovre et Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy et la lauréate du Prix Princesse Grace de Monaco. ©Direction de la Communication / Philippe Fitte

The Garden Club de Monaco was buzzing with excitement and creativity this morning as the winners of the 56th International Bouquet Competition were announced.

Under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II and presided over by H.R.H. The Princess of Hanover, the theme of this 56th edition is 'Flowers in Motion'.

"Discovering all these magnificent arrangements in such a beautiful setting has been one of the most thrilling moments of the competition. The competitors interpreted the theme chosen for this 56th edition, 'Flowers in Motion', in a highly inspirational style. We are delighted to see that floral design is generating increasing interest, including among younger generations who are fortunate enough to be growing up in Monaco. H.R.H. The Princess of Hanover remains committed to ensuring that all forms of art and culture are supported and honoured in the Principality. The Garden Club de Monaco is delighted to be part of this vision, with, among other things, the first-ever 'Monaco in Bloom' window display competition which has seen the Principality beautifully decorated thanks to the efforts of Monaco's shopkeepers, whom we sincerely thank for their participation, as well as UCAM, who supported our initiative, and the Société des Bains de Mer, who eagerly helped us to publicise the event at the entrance to their establishments. Under the Presidency of H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover, the Garden Club de Monaco is also expanding its scope by embracing themes that are dear to H.S.H. Prince Albert II and vital for our future: environmental protection and biodiversity," commented Cecilia Casiraghi, Vice-President of the Garden Club de Monaco.

The categories for this theme were open to everybody (amateurs or professionals, designers or teachers, with the exception of the 'youth' category, which is reserved for children aged 6 to 14):

1. Multicoloured fireworks: large
2. A rose ball: table decoration
3. Pastel whirlwinds: on a pedestal
4. Monochrome swirls: alcove
5. A gust of wind sweeping through the garden: alcove
6. A wreath of flowers and leaves: wall decoration
7. A medley of flowers, fruit and vegetables: 'youth' category

The Special Prizes were awarded by the 'Special Jury,' chaired by H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover and comprising prominent figures from the world of literature and the arts.

The 'official' panel, comprised of judges, teachers, international authors and floral art specialists, awarded the Gold, Silver and Bronze Insignia and the General Grand Prize, in addition to the Princess Grace of Monaco Prize.

The public can admire the winning displays from 6pm today and from 9.30am to 6pm tomorrow.

Admission and access to the activities organised by the Garden Club de Monaco on Sunday 11 May are free of charge:

From 11am to 1pm, Aquarama Riva Bar (YCM): 'THE GARDEN CLUB DE MONACO CONFERENCES':

• ‘Orange blossom water’ by Murielle Iris, from Les Sauvages, is a mini-conference that takes attendees on an incredible journey encompassing:

 - Bitter orange trees and orange blossom: a brief history of citrus fruits on the eastern French Riviera (from Nice to Menton).

 - From locally grown orange trees to harvesting orange blossom water and essential oil.

 - From ancient times to the present day: the genealogy of citrus fruits, practices and medicinal benefits. 

• ‘The Jardin Exotique: a botanical garden’ by Diane Ortolani, Director of the Jardin Exotique.

Botanical gardens date back to the 16th century. The Jardin Exotique is proud to be a part of this history. Diane Ortolani will present the story of these gardens, their purpose and the future of the Jardin Exotique de Monaco.

• ‘Around the Olive’ by Armando Spajani and Riccardo Carver.

From olive trees to olive oil, Armando Spajani and Riccardo Carver take us on a journey through time, from the origins of this fascinating tree to its adaptation, from the natural heritage it represents to its precious fruit.

From 3pm to 4.30pm, Aquarama Riva Bar (YCM):

• Flower arranging demonstration by Kévin Billard, from Maison Fiori in Nice and former florist and decorator at the Prince's Palace.

The first-ever 'MONACO IN BLOOM' window display competition, organised by the Garden Club de Monaco to run alongside the 56th International Bouquet Competition, was a resounding success! The displays created by participating retailers will remain in place for the public to admire until tomorrow. The first prize was presented by H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover at the Award Ceremony.

For further information, please contact: THE GARDEN CLUB DE MONACO

Tel. : +377 93 30 02 04 - Email : gardenclub@monaco.mc

Website: www.gardenclubmonaco.com