Centerpiece Contest

SVT is calling all local garden clubs in Worcester and Middlesex Counties to participate in a Centerpiece Contest for our Flower Power Gala. We have great prizes, and it's for a great cause!
  

Centerpiece Contest Details

• Contest check-in/set-up: 12:00 to 3:30 (alternative drop-off arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis)
• Location: Charter Oak Country Club, 394 Chestnut Street, Hudson, MA
• No public viewing: Gala guests only
• Judging: Judging will be conducted by SVT volunteers during the cocktail hour for the event
• Prizes: First and Second Place prizes will be awarded
• Awards announced: During the evening program and by email on Tuesday, February 10
   

Who Can Enter

• Open to: Members of garden clubs or other community groups (we're open-minded!)
• Entry limit: There is no limit to the number of centerpieces a garden club can enter. Any individual or group representing the club may enter a centerpiece. We need a minimum of 10 total centerpieces entered for the contest to move forward.
• No fee to enter.
   

What to Create

• Design a table centerpiece suitable for display at a fun and funky fundraiser for a conservation nonprofit.
• Centerpieces will be displayed on round tables in the main ballroom and throughout the venue.
• No political or controversial messages, please.
• Expressions of love for nature, the environment, and/or local farms are encouraged.
   

Rules & Requirements

• Material: Use any fresh flowers, dried plants, paper flowers, or repurposed materials. Any wild-harvested materials should be ethically sourced with permission from the landowner.
• Container: Must be stable; no leaks; protect surfaces (use a tray/liner if needed).
• Size limits: Must fit within an 18-inch max footprint and 12-inch max height.
• Mechanics: Eco-friendly, reusable, or biodegradable materials (such as tape, foam, and wire) are permitted.; mechanics should not be visible from normal viewing distance.
• Original work: Must be designed and assembled by the exhibitor(s).
• Safety: No open flame, sharp/unsecured items, or messy materials that shed or stain. Precautions must be taken to ensure that insects will not emerge from any wild-harvested materials during dinner.
• Labeling: tape a label with the name of the garden club and name(s) of the designers to the bottom of the piece.
   

Judging

Centerpieces will be judged by a panel of volunteers using criteria such as:

• Creativity and expression
• Design (elements & principles), organization, and craftsmanship
• Expression of "Flower Power" theme and overall distinction
• Conformity to rules and requirements
   

Prizes

• First place: A garden party for up to 25 guests on a mutually agreed-upon date in 2026 at SVT's Wolbach Farm headquarters' Olmsted-designed Founder's Garden. The Founder's Garden is maintained by volunteer Master Gardeners and features native plants, a stone patio, and small pond. The garden party will include beverages, food, and a tour of the garden.
• Second Place: A guided educational hike or BYO brown bag picnic at an SVT trail, led by an SVT staff member or volunteer.
• All Participants (up to 5 per entry): An SVT Trail Guide, a packet of native seeds, and SVT-branded garden gloves
   

How to Enter

Submit your entry by January 17 by filling out this Google form
 

Questions? 

Contact Sabina Cardenas at [email protected]