what are the benefits of working predominantly with native flowers?
besides the unique beauty of australian natives, they also allow me to be really creative and sculptural with my designs – they’re so interesting to work with. i work closely with my dad who grows and sources the best native flowers, and i’m really proud to be able to showcase his incredible produce in my designs. aussie natives also tend to last longer than traditional soft flowers, so that’s always a winner too!
how is sustainability considered and reflected in your work?
i don’t buy imported flowers. buying locally and only australian-grown flowers has so many environmental benefits. if our flowers come in a plastic wrapping, we re-use this whenever possible as a wet pack on our arrangements. we also avoid using floral foam, instead opting to use more hardy flowers that don’t need much water and vases for our installations and arrangements.
what special floristry moments or memories have been a highlight for you?
floristry has taken me to lots of interesting places, both locally and internationally. i just love the daily beauty that accompanies working with flowers in my shop and helping my customers commemorate special moments in their lives. on a larger scale, working on jobs in london and milan; i recall foraging for flowers for the most amazing dinner party in the south of france with saskia havekes and working on a number of beautiful local weddings and events, they’re all memorable in their own way. on a personal level, one of my favourite memories to date was making bouquets for my sisters' small wedding on my family farm during lockdown earlier this year. my dad grew and sourced an extra special selection from his growers just for her wedding, and it was amazing!
what is your favourite flower and why?
i absolutely love dianella. it’s a special australian native with delicate, vivid blue flowers – it’s so unexpected for an australian native. my mum grows it in her garden and it reminds me of home.
any final tips or advice for people when sourcing or caring for floral arrangements?
buying locally and what’s in season is the best advice i can give! you can always ask your florist or grower what’s the best in season at the time. get your flowers into water quickly and make sure you change the water every few days. having the right vase is pretty important too and can make your blooms look even better than before!