Festive work is some of my favourite to design, from full staircase garlands and mantelpiece installations to table arrangements, wreaths, and bespoke decoration. Everything is made to complement the space, feel natural and in keeping with the surroundings…”
Jemma Khan, Founder, Jemma Khan Studio
Jemma Khan is a floral designer based in the North of England, who specialises in creating exquisite arrangements across Yorkshire, Cheshire, and neighbouring regions. Jemma also extends her services beyond her immediate locale, traveling further afield to areas such as The Cotswolds to cater to larger private events and major installations. In this discussion, we explore her decor concepts for the upcoming festive season of 2025/2026, showcasing her creativity and commitment to elegantly enhancing the spirit of the season…
C&B: “Jemma, we’re at the time when everyone starts installing their festive decor; you’re an expert in both rustic and refined arrangements – which do your clients generally prefer contemporary or traditional?”
JK: “Most of my clients lean towards a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility. Think natural, textural arrangements in a restrained palette rather than overly styled or glittered décor. It’s about warmth, elegance, and authenticity…”
C&B: “That sounds about right for the beautiful homes and properties you decorate! Which types of flowers and foliage are your preferred choices for Christmas arrangements?”
JK: “I love using winter foliage like spruce, pine, eucalyptus, berried ivy, and viburnum. I often mix these with hellebores, amaryllis, paper-whites, roses, and winter berries for softness and scent…”
I’m always guided by nature, winter hedgerows, the shift in light, and the textures of the season. I also take inspiration from classic British interiors and heritage homes, combining natural abundance with timeless detailing. I love stars and creating baubles from dried fruit; it adds a touch of elegance and festive magic…”
Jemma Khan, Founder, Jemma Khan Studio
C&B: “Do you ever use fresh, dried, and artificial materials for your festive projects?”
JK: “Rarely – we use mostly fresh and natural materials, though I occasionally include dried elements for texture and longevity, such as seed heads, honesty, or preserved foliage. I love using seasonal fruit like pomegranates, dried oranges, or crab apples, as well as berries, pinecones, and foraged branches. They add warmth and a sense of place to each design.…”
C&B: “How do you balance festive themes with a client’s personal style?”
JK: “I always start with the architecture and interior style of the home, then tailor the flowers to suit the space. Some clients prefer a soft, neutral palette while others love something richer and more dramatic. It’s about enhancing the festive mood without overwhelming their aesthetic…”
Amongst my clients are private homeowners, heritage venues, and event planners who value natural, elegant floral design with a touch of understated luxury. They often host their festive gatherings in their beautiful country homes…”
Jemma Khan, Founder, Jemma Khan Studio
C&B: “What would you say are your favourite flowers for New Year’s floral designs?”
JK: “I adore white amaryllis, paper-whites, and tulips paired with silvery-green foliage. They bring a sense of renewal and freshness, a gentle transition from the richness of Christmas into the brightness of the new year…”
For durability, I use the freshest possible materials and condition everything carefully. For long-lasting installations, I design with water sources hidden within the mechanics and use durable foliage as a base. I also offer mid-season refresh options for larger homes and venues. However, if your design is outside, it should last the duration of the season as we are using evergreen products. When they’re outside, they are less likely to dry out…”
Jemma Khan, Founder, Jemma Khan Studio
C&B: “Do you offer customisable or themed floral packages for festive decor?”
JK: “Yes, I offer both bespoke festive installations and smaller packages such as wreaths, table flowers, and garlands for private homes. Each design is customised to the client’s space, colour palette, and level of formality…”
Our Christmas designs tend to be fuller and more abundant, often with deeper tones and warm textures. New Year pieces feel lighter, fresher, and more refined – less about tradition, and more about a clean, elegant start…”
Jemma Khan, Founder, Jemma Khan Studio
C&B: “Can you share some examples of past festive designs that worked especially well?”
JK: “Some of my favourite projects have been large-scale garlands in Georgian hallways, candlelit table settings, and natural wreaths featuring garden foliage and seed heads from the farm. They always feel timeless, elegant, and deeply seasonal…”
C&B: “How do you manage delivery/setup and takedown for holiday events?”
JK: “I personally oversee all festive installations and work with my trusted freelance team for setup. We handle everything from design to installation and can also arrange takedown in early January for a completely seamless experience…”
PHOTO CREDITS:
• Joe Dodsworth
• Charlotte Palazzo
• Jemma Khan
CONTACT: http://www.jemmakhan.com
