Thinking about entering one of our Spring, Summer, or Autumn shows, but not quite sure how it all works? Everyone had a first show once! Most of our competitors are amateurs, and our shows are designed to be fun, friendly, and welcoming.
Whether you have a single homegrown vegetable, a vase of garden flowers, a jar of jam, a piece of craft, or a photograph, entering is simple and open to both members and non-members.
Step-by-Step: How It Works
1.1. Obtain a Schedule & Select Your Classes:Pick your classes early.
Download the current Show Schedule from the website or pick up a printed copy. Browse through the classes—we have sections for Fruit & Veg, Flowers, Floral Art, Domestic (Cooking/Preserves), Handicrafts, Photography, and Children/Schools. Check the class requirements carefully (e.g., number of items needed or specific vessel rules).
2.2. Submit Your Entry Form:Deadline: 9:00 PM on Wednesday before the show.
Fill in the entry form following the schedule instructions. Ensure your completed form is submitted no later than 9:00 PM on the Wednesday prior to the show—either online via our entry form page or by handing in a paper copy to the address listed on the form.
3.3. Arrive at Temple Ewell Village Hall:Between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM.
Give yourself plenty of time, as the hall gets busy!
- First, find the Show Secretary (usually located near the stage) to collect your Exhibitor Cards.
- Find the designated table space for your class. If you need help finding a space or need a vase/plate, ask one of our Stewards—they are there to guide you.
- Place your item on the table with your Exhibitor Card placed number side down / barcode side up next to it.
- Important Etiquette: If there isn’t enough space for your entry, ask a steward for assistance. Do not move another competitor’s exhibit yourself.
4.4. Judging Begins:Hall clears at 10:45 AM.
All exhibitors must leave the hall by 10:45 AM so independent judging can begin at 11:00 AM. Judges evaluate entries based on freshness, uniformity, condition, and schedule compliance.
5.5. Public Viewing, Tea & Prize Giving:Door opens at 2:00 PM.
Return to the hall at 2:00 PM when doors open to the public. Grab a cup of tea and cake, browse the exhibits, see how your entries scored, and chat with fellow growers and crafters.
- 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place cards and trophies are presented before the show finishes.
- Once prize giving concludes and organizers announce the end of the show, you can collect your exhibits!
Top Beginner Rules & Etiquette
- Check Your Quantities: If a class asks for “3 apples” or “4 runner beans”, double-check your count. An entry with the wrong number of items cannot be judged (Marked ‘NAS’ – Not According to Schedule).
- Card Orientation: Always remember to place your exhibitor card number-face down so judging remains completely anonymous.
- Uniformity Wins: When displaying multiple vegetables or flowers, try to match them in size, shape, and color. Three matched, medium-sized tomatoes will almost always beat three oversized, mismatched ones.
- Ask a Steward: Never hesitate to ask for help on show morning! Our stewards are happy to show you where classes are placed, how to stage your flowers, or where to find spare paper plates.