For over half a century, Stockport Afternoon Flower Club has been more than just a meeting of floral enthusiasts. It’s a living, breathing community where creativity blossoms and friendships flourish.
Tucked inside Woodley Civic Hall, the club offers a welcoming space where laughter and petals go hand in hand.
Each month, members gather not just to arrange flowers, but to nurture something deeper: connections with the community.
Guided by passionate floral experts, these meetings are part demonstration, part inspiration, and wholly uplifting.
Whether you’re an experienced florist or simply someone who finds happiness in a bouquet of fresh blooms, the Stockport Afternoon Flower Club invites you to be part of a tradition that continues to thrive, year after year.
Stockport Afternoon Flower Club
What began in the early 1970s as a few friends bringing their love of floral art into one room has grown into an inclusive, multi-generational club. Today, it remains grounded in that original spirit of togetherness.
“We started because a few ladies had been going to flower arranging classes,” said club secretary Christie. “Arranging had become all the rage, especially the Japanese-inspired styles, and they decided to form their own club. It’s just grown from there.”
Now with 50 active members, the club has evolved with the times while holding onto its core purpose: to create beauty, uplift spirits, and share skills in a relaxed, social setting.
A Blooming Resilience during COVID-19
Like many community groups, the club faced an uncertain future during the COVID-19 pandemic. But rather than wilting under pressure, they adapted—and blossomed.
“We really thought we might have to close,” Christie recalled. “But one of our members was more technically minded, and we started doing Zoom meetings with demonstrators. We actually gained members during lockdown, which was quite unusual.”
This digital leap kept the club alive and thriving during one of its most challenging chapters—proof that even in isolation, the desire to create and connect is unstoppable.
Charity and community engagement
While flowers may be the club’s passion, giving back is its purpose. Members regularly support local charities, contribute to fundraising events, and bring joy to community spaces through their floral artistry.
The group were recently involved in the Interflora Flower World Cup too, held at Manchester Central earlier this year.
They helped sell the leftover flowers from the competition, with all the money going to St Anne’s Hospice.
“We don’t just arrange flowers,” Christie said. “We help other charities raise money, and we’re proud of the impact we’ve made.”
Cultivating wellbeing through flowers
Beyond its community impact, the club offers something deeply personal: peace of mind.
“Flowers make people smile,” said Christie. “There’s real satisfaction in making something beautiful. It lifts your mood, gives you a focus, and is great for mental wellbeing.”
With most members in retirement, the club plays a vital role in reducing isolation and offering a meaningful outlet. Though predominantly female, the club warmly welcomes everyone: including a few green-fingered gents.
“It’s a space where older people can still contribute to their community, share their skills, and feel valued. But we’re always on the lookout for new faces—especially younger ones! Honestly, flower arranging is for everyone. Who isn’t cheered up by flowers?”
If your Mondays could use a little colour, warmth, and creativity, why not give the Stockport Afternoon Flower Club a try?
They meet on the last Monday of every month (except August and December) at 2:00 pm at Woodley Civic Hall.
More information on Stockport Afternoon Flower Club
You can find out more by visiting their Facebook page by clicking here
