Nitra, Slovakia
Mikado Technique & Wedding Floristry
Part 1 – Spring/Summer / Sustainability – Master Class Workshop
March 2–3, 2026
Workshop language: Slovak and Hungarian
This Nitra date was the first stage of the Mikado program (Spring/Summer) and was designed as a practical two-day workshop focused on wedding floristry, the Mikado technique, and sustainability principles. It was not "quick inspiration" — it was structured, step-by-step guidance so participants left with processes they can apply immediately in their own work and translate into real client orders.
Who the workshop was for and how we worked
The workshop was for florists who want a clear technique, repeatable results, and confidence in construction. We intentionally kept the group smaller — we prioritised quality and individual guidance. Thanks to this, everyone had room for specific questions, process checks, and personal feedback. Throughout the workshop, participants could consult Robert on real-world scenarios: from material selection and technical details to workflow organisation for wedding projects.
What participants learned
Over the two days, we covered the Mikado technique in depth — not only as a method for bouquets, but as a system applicable to other sellable products. The goal was for participants to understand the construction principle, repeat it across different formats, and adapt it to various flowers, shapes, and client briefs. The focus was on hands-on practice, correct working habits, stability and clean execution, shape and proportion, and sustainability in everyday professional floristry.
Program and creation outcomes
Participants created tangible portfolio pieces while learning processes that lead to sellable products. In practice they worked on bouquets, wreaths, and other transportable decorations; the program also included team-based work as a simulation of real pre-event preparation, where we trained coordination, planning, and role distribution — just as it happens in real wedding productions.
Materials and stepping beyond the "comfort zone"
We worked with a wide range of materials, including flowers and new items that are not used every day in typical practice. The goal was for each participant to try unfamiliar varieties, learn the right handling methods, and build confidence even when the material is not "standard" or is new to them.
Facilities and participant support
The workshop included solid on-site support so participants could fully focus on performance, detail, and real learning.
What participants took home
After this date, participants left with a clear understanding of the Mikado technique, concrete portfolio outcomes, experience with a realistic wedding-prep simulation, and greater confidence when working with new materials. They took home their own creations (bouquets, wreaths, and other transportable pieces), most of the leftover materials and flowers, and the full welcome kit: a bag, an apron, a workbook, a pen, a mug, tools (scissors and a knife), Oáza sprays, and promotional materials from Marginper and Decorum. They also took home the certificate for this stage.
If you want to continue the certification path, the Autumn/Winter stage expands techniques, materials, and work in different seasonal conditions. After completing both stages, you will receive the official Mikado Masterclass certificate, presented immediately after the Winter stage concludes, together with the Autumn/Winter certificate.
Participants' reviews (anonymous, full text)
1.
I love Robko's workshops because they push me forward and completely change my perception of floristry. This workshop was absolutely excellent and very beneficial, especially for flower shop owners.
2.
The workshop was amazing, I didn't even want to leave. I gained a lot of experience and many new ideas, which makes me very happy. Robert is an amazing teacher and person, and I am 200% satisfied.
3.
This was already my second workshop and I hope it won't be the last. Robert explains and demonstrates the technique very well. I like that we get to try the technique in different formats – from bouquets to larger installations like columns. I always receive that necessary creative impulse from him, which encourages me to try new techniques. I'm very grateful for that. Thank you.
4.
The workshop was beautiful, full of new and very important information that will help us in our work, saving both time and money. The Mikado technique truly has a future, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to learn it. Thank you ❤️
5.
My first floristry workshop will stay with me for a long time. I hesitated whether to attend and whether it was right for me, but already on the first day I knew I was in the right place with the right florist. A big thank you to the entire team for sharing your knowledge and experience with joy and for opening new opportunities to other enthusiasts. You know how to motivate and inspire every participant. I believe everyone took home exactly what they were looking for and needed. There was creativity, inspiration, motivation, and emotion. Thank you :)
6.
I can incorporate every element of this workshop into my everyday practice, not just when working on special commissions. Many workshops focus mainly on inspiration, creating designs that feel like something we can only dream of achieving in real life. What I loved about this experience is that everything we learned is truly applicable to everyday work. At the same time, these strong fundamentals provide a solid base that can easily be developed into larger, more ambitious projects when the opportunity arises.
7.
My first workshop fully met my expectations. I am a hobby florist and had been searching for more comprehensive information for a long time, but it's not easy to find it among so many offers. Robert Bartolen's workshop finally gave me exactly what I needed, as I would like to open my own business in the future. The whole team is made up of amazing people whose work is guided by humanity, ease, humor, and a willingness to help. You can truly feel that flowers and creativity come from the heart, which makes it very close to me. Your work brings me great value, thank you! :)
8.
The workshop was very interesting and the Mikado technique was new to me, something I had never tried before. After the demonstrations, it really caught my attention and I will definitely continue practicing and improving it. It is very helpful both for my work with fresh flowers and dried flowers, and I will certainly use it. I'm looking forward to creating new bouquets and designs using the Mikado method 😊 I also loved the use of materials that many people consider just "garden waste," but here it was clear how much can be used – you just need to keep your eyes open, and Mikado gives it form.
9.
The workshop was full of information in a pleasant and friendly atmosphere. I gained not only improved skills and a lot of knowledge, but also support from colleagues and new friends. I recommend it to anyone who wants to grow and move forward.
10.
It was a workshop full of new ideas and practical, easy-to-use insights. I would especially highlight the forward-thinking approach and the inclusion of a business mindset, not just floristry. The team was very kind and welcoming. Even as a foreign participant, I felt very comfortable. My previous feedback and suggestions were fully taken into consideration.
11.
The two-day Mikado workshop with florist Robert Bartolen was a beautiful and very inspiring experience for me. The entire workshop had a calm and intimate atmosphere, with space for creativity, questions, and focused work on the technique. Robert explained everything very clearly and gave attention to each participant. A big plus was the abundance of beautiful floral materials we could work with and experiment with different combinations. The pace was relaxed, nothing was rushed, so we could truly enjoy the whole process. Thank you for two days full of creativity, new experiences, and floral inspiration. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to take their work to the next level. But be careful – these workshops are highly addictive :D
12.
I evaluate the workshop very positively overall; everything was well organized. The techniques were well explained, and I appreciate the variety of creations we were able to try. The only small downside was weaker lighting in the space.
13.
The workshop met my expectations, expanded my knowledge, and inspired me to continue creating. Everything was perfect. Thank you.
14.
I would like to thank Robert and his team for two days full of inspiration, new techniques, and ideas. It was great to create in such a positive environment. Thank you.
15.
I evaluate the workshop more than positively. It was full of ideas and inspiration. I will definitely try and use the Mikado method in my work. I love how everything nature offers can be used. Thank you.