Our Artistic Portfolio

Margy’s appreciation of Japanese culture extends beyond ikebana to the practice and study of the Urasenke (裏千家) tradition of Japanese tea ceremony, Chadō (茶道) — “The Way of Tea.”

For Margy, tea is not simply about preparing and serving a bowl of matcha. It is a practice of presence, gratitude, respect, and hospitality. Every gesture has intention—from preparing the space and selecting the utensils to offering the tea and appreciating the brief moment shared between host and guest.

The principles of tea naturally complement Margy’s approach to ikebana. Both invite us to slow down, observe carefully, appreciate the changing seasons, and discover beauty in simplicity and imperfection.

At the heart of the tea ceremony are four principles: Wa, Kei, Sei, Jaku (和敬清寂) — Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquility. These ideas influence not only Margy’s study of tea, but also the way she approaches flowers, teaches her students, and welcomes others into the experience of Japanese culture.

For Margy, the Way of Tea and the Way of Flowers share a common purpose: to be fully present, to appreciate what nature has given us, and to approach each encounter with gratitude.

Tea teaches us to be present. Flowers teach us to observe. Together, they teach us gratitude.