Carolyn and Sarah’s class will demonstrate how a traditional English afternoon tea can be elevated to new levels of elegance, indulgence and enjoyment. Their innovative and creative approach to the intertwining of food and flowers results in food that is beautiful, aromatic and most of all delicious and flowers that are an integral component of the teatime experience as a whole. This is an eclectic mix of ‘traditional old English’ and contemporary. Both Sarah and Carolyn are passionate about the provenance of the flowers and ingredients that they use. Their simple approach always allows the beauty of the flowers and the flavours of the produce to ‘speak for themselves’. This is a class for anyone who loves beautiful, quirky, original presentation and of course delectable teatime treats, with glimpses of some of the great Royal traditions…

South African born Carolyn attended the Tante Marie School of Cookery in Surrey, England where she had a classical training in French cuisine and gained her diploma with distinction. Subsequently she was chef to TRH The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester at Kensington Palace for two years before being offered a position in the household of TRH the Prince and Princess of Wales, where she worked for 11 years. After their separation she remained as executive chef to HRH Prince Charles. She cooked in all the royal residences in the UK and accompanied HRH on many overseas state visits. During this time she worked with many of the UK’s top Michelin rated chefs and spent time working in the kitchens of Michelin restaurants in France and Italy. Since leaving the Royal Household she has worked in Switzerland, the Middle East and in the USA. Carolyn now lives in Oxfordshire, UK with her young daughter.

Sarah was born with a genuine true love of flowers. Even as a young child she made posies in her Grandmothers garden. She studied art, graphics and display. After marrying a French chef, she moved to France where they established and ran their own restaurant. On her return to the UK Sarah completed a long anticipated diploma in Floristry. Whilst freelancing as a florist she was offered a position working in the gardens at Highgrove House, the country home of HRH The Prince of Wales. Several weeks into her new job Sarah found herself doing the flowers for events in the house. The Prince adored Sarah’s natural informal style and he created the position of personal florist for her. Travelling extensively with the Prince, she composed wonderful displays for many royal events. She held this truly unique position for 11 years. Sarah lives in Gloucestershire, UK and she has two grown up daughters.