Floral Affections: A Love Letter to My Favorite Blooms
Hey there, hi there!
I’m back on your screen with some more florally thoughts. Today, let’s chat about my current flower loves!
One of the first questions I get as a florist is, “What’s your favorite flower?” It seems simple, but it’s a loaded one. Honestly, I can’t pick just one! Ask me today, and I might say snapdragons, but next week, I might cringe at their awkward 90-degree angles (IYKYK).
Still, some flowers hold a special place in my heart and consistently make their way into my designs.
Gerberas—some folks think they’re a cheap flower, but I believe they’re one of the most underrated! Their clean, visible stems add such an intriguing look to arrangements (plus, they’re super easy to prep). Available year-round in Australia and coming in a stunning array of colors, I’ve been dreaming of creating an extravagant installation or tablescape filled with a ridiculous amount of gerberas. So, if you’re a gerbera lover planning a wedding, I’d be on my knees begging to be your florist!
Queen Anne’s Lace—I can’t quite explain why, but this flower just speaks to me. It embodies that effortless, just-picked-from-the-garden look, which is perfect for creating relaxed, romantic designs. The stems may be a bit unpredictable, but that just adds to their charm. They seem to dance in arrangements, bringing an organic touch that feels natural and free. Also, those little side baby flowers come in abundance and are perfect for smaller design elements.
Ranunculus—Of course, these are on my list! I got married in August just to have them in my bouquet, and they did not disappoint. Their enchanting layers of delicate petals create a stunning visual that can elevate any design. Each bloom has a unique personality, with colors ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues, making them incredibly versatile for any occasion. Plus, they’re surprisingly durable; my husband’s boutonnière was a ranunculus, and it held up beautifully even in the Chillagoe heat!
Last but certainly not least…
Tulips—I won’t lie, these flowers have tested my patience during my apprenticeship. Their lovely stems have led to more than a few snaps on my part. But despite that flaw (more my shrek hands) they have so much character! Did you know their stems squeak? Such a quirky trait that still catches me off guard. They also shift and dance throughout the day, and when they open, they transform into something entirely different. The variety of colors and types is endless, but those frilly double-layered white tulips? They’ve got a serious chokehold on me.
Like an ADHD bee, I flit from flower to flower, but these are my long-time loves! I thought it’d be fun to document this so I can look back in a year and see what younger Shan was fixating on.
Are you a fellow florist or a flower enthusiast? What’s your favorite flower, and why do you love it?