Helen Reeley Gardens reviews

11 Nov 19'

Marc Gilmour reviewed: Christmas Decorations Berkhamsted HP4

"I'm Helen's assistant during the workshops. Helen is very attentive to participants needs & helps readily those who want assistance. The moss wreath is easier to make than the willow wreath-there isn't the softening work involved & the moss wreath is heavier which is good if you have a door in a windy spot. I also make the drinks; tea, coffee, juice, mulled wine & of course cake. It's a great morning-I'd like to see more blokes at the workshops."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thank you Marc, I couldn't do it without you. We have a very busy wreath season coming up-I hope your biceps are in good condition :-)"

11 Nov 19'

Jessica reviewed: Christmas Decorations Berkhamsted HP4

"Myself and 2 friends came here last Christmas and had a wonderful time creating the willow wreaths...they all turned out so beautiful with Helen’s friendly guidance, and the wreath keeps for use in the garden for the rest of the year for you to add your own flowers to. Have already booked for this year...can’t wait!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thank you Jessica-look forward to seeing you again this time to make a moss wreath. Cake & coffee as usual :-)"

11 Nov 19'

Amy Sudbury reviewed: Christmas Decorations Berkhamsted HP4

"A wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit. I went along last year with my mum and sister to make the willow wreath - it was absolutely showstopping! This year we'll be back to try the moss version!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thank you Amy for your kind words. It's always a pleasure to welcome people back from previous workshops-I look forward to seeing you & Jessica again :-)"

8 Nov 19'

Anne Ross reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I have attended a couple of Helen's courses and have booked again this year too because they are great fun and it's lovely to create something new each time. Helen provides so many options and choices of things to use with step by step instructions and plenty of time to create something you'll feel proud to hang on your door!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Hello Anne, thanks for the review, glad you enjoy the workshops. I have some new foliage/garnish for this year's wreath workshops. See you on 11th December :-)"

4 Nov 19'

Pippa Brush Chappell reviewed: Christmas Decorations Berkhamsted HP4

"I'm not the craftiest person ever -- but I've done a couple of workshops now with Helen and I just love them. She could not be nicer in helping you figure out what to do and encouraging you to have a go, and I've been so pleased with what I've made each time. The workshops are always friendly, always relaxed, and always worth signing up for. Helen knows what she's about, for sure, and is a brilliant instructor."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Pippa! Great that you guys treat yourselves to a group Christmas gathering at the workshop. Friends are special."

30 Oct 19'

Jane cantlon reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I attended a wreath workshop a couple of years ago. What fun it was and how much did i learn !! Helen cheerily demonstrated her considerable horticultural knowledge and expertise ably assisted by husband marc. The range of resources was enormous enabling maximum creativity and experimentation. Wonderful festive atmosphere and much excitement about the magnificence of the final result. We were also treated to homemade mince pies and hot drinks. Just a brilliant way to get ready for the festive season while learning or developing new skills highly highly recommended."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thank you Jane for a wonderful review. It's always good to have you along if you can make it. Look out for spoon carving again next year."

29 Oct 19'

Nyree O’Brien reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"My friend and I went along to our first workshop, not really knowing what to expect. It was such a lovely workshop and having the opportunity to make the wreath as well as decorate it was an absolute bonus. The workshop was a lovely calm relaxing evening full of being festive without the crowds and loud music. It was an wonderful treat!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thank you Nyree-we like to keep it calm & relaxing. I'm glad you can bring your daughter along this year."

29 Oct 19'

Sharon Greene reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I've been to a number of Helen's workshops now and always have a great time. There are lots of beautiful materials to choose from, all from our local area, and plenty of help for beginners or those lacking inspiration! The willow wreaths survive the winter and can be used again and again, but I enjoy the workshops so much I go back every year with a group of friends for the fun, excellent mince pies and coffee. I thoroughly recommend them."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Always good to see you & your chums Sharon."

29 Oct 19'

Isobel reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"Helen's workshop's are a real treat. Spending the day with friends and making new friends whilst creating a beautiful, unique wreath. A lovely day spent"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Isobel-would be great to see you again!"

29 Oct 19'

Deborah Lea reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"Fabulous course with lovely trainer. Plenty of choice of resources so could put our own style. Really relaxed atmosphere and everyone in my group came away with a beautiful wreath."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Deborah-your group always produces original work!"

29 Oct 19'

Alison Shardlow reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I went to Karen’s wreath workshop with my mum and a friend – and what a morning it was! The choice of different greenery and other things meant that everyone could create something that was really personal. With Karen’s guidance and support the challenge of moulding the willow was quickly overcome by all three of us. The result was a beautiful decoration for my door which brought many comments – as well as disbelief that I had made it myself! Thank you Karen"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Alison. You're right about the personal touch-no two wreaths are the same."

21 Oct 19'

Sue Mullan reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I have attended Helen’s workshop every year and it only gets better. Each year I introduce a friend to our fun filled day. All organic (no tinsel or plastic used), and no need to worry if you are a novice as Helen is on hand at all times. Last year I made a moss wreath due to arthritic thumbs which was such fun and gave me a completely new Christmas look. Start your celebrations with laughter, fun and no stress!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Sue. It was your feedback that encouraged me to offer moss wreaths as well as willow wreaths. I saw your wreath hanging on your gate last year-I thought the twinkling lights really made it look extra special :-)"

17 Oct 19'

Karen Shepherd reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I attended this course in December 2018 and throughly enjoyed making my own wreath from naturally sources components, rather than buying something from a shop that has been glued, sprayed and contains plastics. Helen Reeley was very good with her instructions / demonstration of how to work the willow to make the foundation of the wreath and then to give ideas on how to decorate and finalise your work. The range of Willow and other foliage that was available was extensive providing plenty of choice to create a unique wreath. I was really surprised and pleased with what I was able to produce under Helen's patient guidance, especially as I was a complete beginner. A really lovely way to spend a morning and create something that became a talking point between friends. Highly recommended."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Hi Karen, thank you for your review. Hope to see you again at another workshop in the future. Best wishes-Helen"

15 Oct 19'

Janet Holdsworth reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I have been to many of Helen’s garden workshops which have all been packed with fragrant colour and style. Helen’s horticultural expertise shines through with her sunny smile and ‘can-do’ attitude. I am very much looking forward to the wreath-making Christmas event again this year. Helen’s natural style and respect for sustainability ensures that plants used are local, healthy and freshly harvested. Home-made mince pies and mulled wine sweeten the atmosphere even further. Just perfect, thank you Helen."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Janet for such a glowing appraisal! You're always such fun to have in class, see you in December again."

15 Oct 19'

Dorrie McCallum-Banks reviewed: Christmas willow wreath workshop Hemel Hempstead

"I've attended this workshop a few times now, and always have a lovely time. Helen collects her dressing material locally, using only real evergreens - no plastics. The finished wreaths look amazing - so fresh and natural. I've given a few away as gifts, to universal acclaim. Highly recommended."

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"Thanks Dorrie. Always good to have you along when you can make it."

14 Oct 19'

Madeleine Hughes reviewed: Christmas Decorations Berkhamsted HP4

"A wonderful afternoon. A really fun and engaging course....we all made such beautiful wreaths!"

Helen Reeley Gardens responded:

"You always make such a beautiful wreath Mads; willow or moss this year? Let me know :-)"