What is your most memorable wedding?
A glorious affair at Rushton Hall, featuring blossom, roses and peonies in shades of pink and white with touches of gold-dipped foliage. In addition to a ceremony arch, obmre petal aisle, and towering table arrangements, I also created floral sculptures, a candy buffet and gorgeous hand-lettered signage.
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Romantic, naturalistic, imaginative, bespoke, captivating
What about your business are you most proud of?
Successfully relocating from Sydney, Australia, to Hertfordshire in the UK and attracting clients who appreciate the beauty of floral design and trust me with their vision
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Discuss your ideas with a professional florist before establishing a budget for floral design. This can help you determine the retail value of the floral designs you have in mind, and the best way to use them to maximum effect on your wedding day. When assessing a quotation, remember that in addition to the cost of materials there will be a charge for the many hours of labour involved in making your designs, storage, delivery, set up, returning to collect items, disposal of green waste, and of course their staff wages.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
Scotty dog cookie favours with a parcel of Earl Grey tea attached. The bride was English while her groom was Scottish. The shortbread biscuits were in the shape of a Scotty dog, beautifully iced, with the dog wearing a tartan coat. The perfect midnight snack for guests.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
When a client first contacts me I send them a list of questions about the items they wish to order, their venue and budget. I then offer an initial consultation during which I present ideas for them to consider. Next, I draft an estimate and send to a client for their consideration. Once a booking fee has been paid to secure their date, I refine the proposal and provide a detailed quotation with accompanying mood board.
What is the most interesting thing you have put in a bouquet?
Artichoke and apples. I use a creative mix of seasonal flowers and often foraged foliage, which adds wonderful texture and interest, and distinguishes my work from high-street florists.
Is there a flower that has specific symbolism that you would recommend for couples?
I enjoy incorporating varieties they might associate with happy memories from childhood, such as a particular flower their grandparent used to grow in their garden, if it works well as a cut flowers and is in season.
What is the most romantic flower and why?
A scented garden rose is the essence of love and beauty and delights the senses
What should you do with the flowers after the wedding?
I encourage clients to offer arrangements to their guest, or provide paper and twine at a wedding so guests can make bouquets out of larger table arrangements and enjoy them for several days at home. Those left behind at a venue can be donated to local hospices, if suitable, or recycled as green waste.