The Flowerseekers Autumn 18

A U T U M N ‘1 8 #Forflowerlovers

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Hello,

Autumn

Hello flower lovers – welcome to Autumn 2018 The temperatures are starting to drop slightly after a long hot Australian summer and the Autumn tones of mother nature are starting to descend. There is a bounty of luscious new colours emerging and textural new materials to create with. Our Australian florists, creatives and growers have a whole new season to explore their creativity and growing.

There is so much to be inspired by in our daily lives and this issue includes inspiration via Beth Abood’s story of Queensland florist Xavier Nicolle and how her working life as a florist during illness and treatment has been somewhat of an offset therapy to get her through and distract her during her tough journey – although challenging on the workfront at times – Xavier has met those challenges and felt satisfaction from achieving some of her work goals.

Hats off to Pearsons School of Floristry they are a leading innovative training provider of Floristry in Australia celebrating their 20th year which is an incredibly admirable achievement – this issue you can read the story and all the School has to offer.

Florist Cara Fitch of Trille Floral is an absolute colour palette magician and shares her thoughts and tips on achieving great colour palette results.

We share the collaborative story of ECOYA and 3 leading florists to create a limited edition of botanically inspired floral fragrances.

Jardine Hansen shares an insight into her life in flowers and her move to her dream country property in Tasmania.

Luisa Brimble photographer and I had the pleasure of meeting talented florist Kate Bryce of Two Wild Hands in her NSW country studio. Kate has a beautiful design aesthetic and has curated a seasonal autumn toned collection of floral designs especially for this issue.

There is loads more to enjoy – flowers – designs – art – so settle in and enjoy the work of some of our incredibly creative and hardworking Australian based talents and businesses.

Heartfelt thanks to all that contribute and support the Flowerseekers – we are already planning a super Winter 18 issue showcasing some of the best Australian based male talents in our flower community and industry.

Sonya Gardiner Sonya

Gardiner

Image : Annabelle Hickson Fennel Fireworks

CONTENTS Autumn 18

6. Inspired Me Oh My New Collection 8. Autumn Design Flowers Vasette 12. My Life in Flowers Jardine Hansen 20. Design Colour Palette with Trille Floral 24. Pelt and Hide 26. Workspace Flowers on the Mill 34. Green Life Leaf Supply 38. Learn Pearsons School of Floristry 44. Art Constance Spry By Jessica Watts Art 46. Autumn Tones Two Wild Hands 54. Flower Therapy Xavier Nicolle Florist 60. Flower Shop Elka’s Garden 64. Art Focus Jenny Fusca 68. Florist Life The Little Flower Shop 72. Grow Olivieri Flowers 76. Handmade The Coterie 80. Flower Focus Dahlia 82. How To Flower Press 84. Gift Guide 86. Collaboration

Ecoya

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COVER STORY This epic image went viral when florists Katie Marx Flowers and Leila Sanderson posted it in May 2016 – taken at Butterland in Victoria – these disbud chrysanthemums are giant size and an autumn favourite each year for mother’s day. Like a vintage car – this image will forever be a classic and you can order your very own limited edition “Chrysanthemum” fine art print via skinnywolf.com.au Images Cover and Centre: Leila Sanderson @skinny_wolf *check out Leila’s rosette collection

Image : Leila Sanderson @skinny_wolf

INSPIRED

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INSPIRED

New Co llectio n Am I the victim or predator?

Am I the victor or the prize?

In the spirit of beauty, violence and all that inhabits the in-between AWOL explores what it means to go to battle with womanhood. AWOL (Absent Without Leave) is the debut exhibition by Brisbane photographer, artist and creative Charli Burrowes, a marriage of visual intrigue, conflict and sensuality.

www.meohmygirl.com

AUTUMN DESIGN

Au t u m n 2018 at Fl owers Vasette Autumn is the most wonderful blessing of

The Autumn bounty is just starting to drift

our temperate climate. The change of season

in and you will see the quessential tones

brings new colours, textures and features to

of Autumn in our designs as the season

t h e t a b l e .

progresses.

We move beyond floral. Grasses, seed pods, berries, foliage’s and fruits are added to the

Keep up to date with Flowers Vasette’s latest

florist designs.

designs via our daily instagram

We choose to source local, seasonal varieties

@flowersvasette or call the store at

- today customers enjoy knowing our flowers

T. +61 3 9419 4988

are a home-grown product, from specialty and b o u t i q u e g r o w e r s .

247 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

We are also able to harvest

Victoria, Australia, 3065

unique-to-Vasette varieties from our own garden at Beachmont Retreat in the Dandenong Ranges.

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sales@flowersvasette.com.au

AUTUMN DESIGN

Harissa Bliss

AUTUMN DESIGN

Chicory Chic

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AUTUMN DESIGN

Vanilla Thriller

MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

Images Robyn Geering Photography

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MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

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MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

Jardine Hansen Florist An ardent lover of plants and flowers I spent my childhood, wandering through rambling gardens with my grandmother. I revel in creating loose arrangements which retain the sense of spontaneity and romance found in the garden.

My work is layered and textured, using interesting botanical specimens and favouring locally grown flowers and foliages for their seasonal beauty. At this time I feel really lucky to be working between Sydney and Tasmania. Last year my partner and I bought 25 acres in Tassie with a sweet little house, a very big shed and two dams on it (one has a platypus living in it).

There are echidnas, wallabies and quolls and a pesky possum living on the land along with a nearby Wedge Tailed Eagle. It’s pretty remarkable, we get snowed in occasionally and feel like we really experience the seasons. It has been great for dabbling in flower growing and inspiring being in such gorgeous surrounds, feeling that all the space here allows for some creativity to flourish. We built a little glass house to raise seeds in over Christmas, it’s been amazing planting from seed, transplanting the seedlings to cutting the flowers to composting them, it feels right.

I was apprehensive that living in Tassie and continuing to work in Sydney would be difficult or clients wouldn’t book me but it’s been great so far. I’ve started on events here in Tassie and already worked at beautiful Mona twice and work in Sydney has been wonderful. A career highlight last week was doing flowers for a shoot for one of my favourite bands The National at Sydney Opera House in the very intimate Uzton Room. I was able to sit in and watch the band play three songs acoustically along with a beautiful grand piano, surrounded by native installations that I’d made. It was pretty surreal.

I’m also very excited to be teaching a two day class in Sydney 20 – 21 March 2018 with my mentor Nicolette Camille. She is such an inspiring and talented woman. The two day class with Nicolette is designed for both enthusiastic beginners and seasoned florists and will guide students though our technical and creative approach to create lush, effusive bouquets and arrangements that are indicative of our garden inspired styles.

One of the demonstrations will cover the art of the natural centrepiece pulling from an opulent selection of the most beautiful flowers of the Autumn season and students will spend time creating loose, rambling compositions that are evocative of the season without the use of floral foam. Emphasis will be placed on building gestural compositions that focus just as much on the negative space as the more densely layered flowers. We will also demonstrate the intricacies of bouquet making; how best to honour each stem’s role within the collective without making the bouquet heavy or overly dense. That’s just an insight to read more details and book please visit Nicolette’s website littleflowerschoolbrooklyn.com or email me and I can send you the link. We will be keeping the class small and intimate and the wonderful Luisa Brimble photographer will be attending to document and capture the demonstrations and student work.

Jardine offers floral styling for weddings, events, corporate spaces, private spaces and editorials by appointment in Tasmania, Sydney the Blue Mountains and beyond.

Please email jardinehansen@gmail.com or telephone 0412 890 841

MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

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Images @clancyjob

MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

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MY LIFE IN FLOWERS

A few of my favourite botanic elements with @thesocietyinc

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DESIGN

Colour Palette with Cara Fitch Trille Floral Colour palettes make my mind race. I adore exploring, producing and challenging myself with the endless colour combinations that nature inspires.

I design for weddings, events and editorials, and before each of these I give thoughtful consideration to the colour palette I’ll be using.

Every design brief has its own unique colour story and style, but I’ve learned with time and experience to be adaptable and flexible.

Here in Australia, our product is heavily dependent on Mother Nature. One bad rainfall or too many hot days can throw off product availability and quality.

Always keeping this in mind, I generally will have a wish list of all the ingredients I hope to source, but truly, you need to be able to think on your feet in the moment and substitute ingredients.

My ideal brief would describe how the client wants their event to feel, instead of defining a strict colour palette. I love having the freedom to choose product that I know will best achieve their goals and fit in perfectly with the venue.

It also allows me to introduce additional colours that I think would enhance the palette.

DESIGN

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DESIGN

Most clients have a pretty specific idea of how they want things to look, so in that case I would recommend the following to build a harmonious colour palette.

1.Carefully consider and understand the design brief, colour theme and style required. Pay special attention to the planned venue and season.

2. Make a moodboard to visualize the colour palette and share with your client.

Try to avoid floral and wedding imagery as much as possible. Using images of textures and movement will translate the mood of the event more accurately and give you more flexibility with your palette.

3. Make a wish list of the product you would like to source but always keep in mind a second or third choice in case your original plan needs to change. Be flexible and open to what is available. Sometimes your second choice of product ends up being the best choice. The client has hired you for your expertise, so trust your eyes and go with your gut.

4. If you have to think on your feet at the market (which you usually do) having a visual with you as you choose helps you build the palette. I walk around carrying a few bunches and hold them up to other potential flowers to see how they coordinate with each other

5. When you can, invest in experimenting with different colour palettes to build confidence and depth of experience. Working with analogous palettes is a great way to start and then selectively add in other colours to see what is comfortable and pleasing for your eyes to rest on.

Credits: Floral Design by Cara Fitch of Trille Floral Web: www.trillefloral.com Instagram: @trillefloral Images by Kerstin Auer of Lilli Kad Photography Web: www.lillikad.com Instagram: @lillikadphotography

Have you purchased your Pelt & Hide yet?

Since the launch of these Italian leather utility belts in October 2017 there have been so many happy florists within Australia and as far as Belgium who have been creating beautiful things and never misplacing their tools.

Designed and made in Sydney, Australia they are the new ‘must have’ tool in the floristry kit.

Choose from ‘Sandalwood’, ‘Jarrah’ or ‘Black Ash’ via www.peltandhide.com $249.00

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Florist Beeca Caves @florafolk Image : Amelia Grose Photography

WORKSPACE

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WORKSPACE

Flowers on the Mill Caroline Miller Words: Beth Abood Images: Lean Timms Questions one might ask themselves when scrolling through the Flowers on the Mill Instagram feed include: Is the enviously, light-filled flower studio really that pretty?

Is the lush green of the farm that the studio is nestled on actually a filter? Could florist Caroline Miller’s 92-year- old Uncle Gus be any more adorable? On a muggy day in January, the Flowerseekers team visited Caroline to find out.

Caroline moved to Sydney five years ago to hone her floristry skills, but not without yearning for her home. “The whole time I was in Sydney I missed home.

Every spare second I got, I would jump in my car and hit the highway as quickly as I could. I stayed [in Sydney] for the beautiful flowers, but in the end, I couldn’t think of a better place to be than home”.

After three years polishing her craft under the guidance of Australia’s best, she decided on the perfect spot to start her own business. “I always thought of Gus house and how great the bones were in that front room, how the light seeped in through the windows. It was really run down and had been abandoned and shut off from the rest of the house. I was desperate to give it a coat of paint and do something creative in there.” Flowers on the Mill was born shortly after.

WORKSPACE

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WORKSPACE

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The studio is housed on the Miller family’s fifth-generation dairy farm in Berry on the NSW South Coast.

Original art deco door handles remain intact and worn, floral-upholstered chairs hint at a lively, enriched past. An ordinary day at the studio for Caroline sees a lot of movement: tractors and trailers of hay coming and going, the milk tanker picking up the milk, farmers herding cattle over the road on horseback. On the day we visited there was a moment so perfect it felt staged, where a chestnut horse galloped by in the distance. We understand why she loves being there.

Human connection was an important factor in Caroline’s studio location choice. “It might sound really silly, but when I work in my studio, I feel really connected to the farm and my family, Gus and his parents. My brothers, my sister and my dad all work on the farm, so being there with them kind of makes me feel like I’m part of it. When I look out the window, I see the fence that my grandfather’s father built and the Camellia his wife planted is still growing. It’s a really special feeling knowing that I can continue Flowers On The Mill in the same spot”.

Then there’s her great Uncle Gus. Being on the farm every day allowed their relationship to bloom and time spent with him helps to appease the isolating feelings that Caroline admits are a by-product of running her own business. Gus wears many hats; Hose Holder, Flower Analyst, Giver of Sometimes-Unwelcome- Advice.

“He has this real love for flowers that I never knew he had. He loves to see what I bring home from the flower markets. He likes to know what bride I have week to week and where they are getting married. He loves when I use vibrant coloured flowers, and he likes to have his input, [but] we sometimes agree to differ.”

But Caroline’s supportive family and enchanting environment don’t make her immune to the challenges that come with being a business owner. “It’s really hard work. You have to juggle a huge amount of hats on your head on a day-to-day basis. Normally, it’s just me trying to maintain my bookkeeping, respond to emails, quote and invoice. I’ve had to teach myself how to build and maintain a website, organise the logistics of large jobs, manage my social media, and develop a day-to- day business structure to try and follow. It’s hard to keep motivated when it’s only you! You have to have a real love for it. I don’t think its everyone’s cup of tea.” And of course, there are the 2 am market trips and long, exhausting days that follow.

But she stays focused, fulfilling her goals with the help of two important staples: coffee, and a deep love for flowers. “What I love most about flowers is that they have a cycle of life. I love the thought that so much love and attention has gone into each specific bloom even before I have seen the flower, from seed to plant to bloom and back to seed again. I am always in awe of the fact nature can produce such intense beauty.”

The most gratifying part, she says, is seeing the impact that her work has on people. “Dropping off a bridal bouquet is just so rewarding. I would not want to do anything else in the world.”

Caroline and her team source and curate beautiful florals across the NSW South Coast and Highlands. To collaborate with Caroline on your next wedding or event, drop her an email at caroline@flowersonthemill. com | Instagram: @Flowersonthemill | www.flowersonthemill.com

WORKSPACE

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WORKSPACE

GREEN LIFE

Leaf Supply is the love child of two massive

suggested that many common indoor plants are

plant nerds. We are magazine art director Lauren

capable of detoxifying the air in our spaces by

Camilleri and plant and floral stylist Sophia Kaplan,

naturally removing toxic agents like formaldehyde.

and we’ve recently been joined by a new partner,

Turning carbon dioxide into oxygen improves air

super talented business strategist Ariella Werner-

quality and provides higher oxygen levels that

Seidler. We started Leaf Supply with the simple aim

can have positive effects on our health and well-

of spreading the love of green. We wanted to help

being. Other studies indicate that productivity and

people bring plants into their spaces and give them

creativity can also be improved with the addition of

the information and tools to treat their new plant

plants. Basically, plants make people happy.

babies right.

Our self-titled book is released early April and Each month we hunt down three of the lushest,

profiles a large variety of houseplants as well as

healthiest plant varieties from local nurseries and

exploring the spaces of plant-loving creatives with

pair them with gorgeous ceramic and calico wrap

beautifully green-filled spaces. It’s a comprehensive

homes. Each plant comes with easy-as emailed care

guide to keeping happy, healthy houseplants and an

instructions to keep new plants thriving. We want

inspiring look at how to integrate them into your

to arm people with all the info we can to encourage

home or workspace.

more confident plant owners.

Photography credit: Luisa Brimble Not only are plants super stylish, but there is an enduring attraction that goes well beyond

Insta: @leaf_supply

the aesthetic. Plants are living things that are

Facebook: Leaf Supply

continually growing and evolving. The act of caring

Web: www.leaf-supply.com

for and tending to an indoor garden is immensely rewarding.

Even better, there’s plenty of scientific proof that plants do us good. NASA’s Clean Air Study

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GREEN LIFE

GREEN LIFE

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GREEN LIFE

LEARN

Barbara Pollak - Pearsons School of Floristry - Director shares the story of 20 years of Excellence + Innovation in Floristry Education

2018 is shaping up to be a really exciting year at Pearsons School of Floristry.

As

part of our 20th anniversary celebrations we will be hosting some amazing rockstar florists from across Australia and overseas.

It is our pleasure to share our

story with you through this wonderful new publication “the Flowerseekers”.

The Pearsons story (so far)

When our parents Fred and Clare took over Pearsons Florist nearly fifty years ago (1969), I doubt they could have imagined where their passion and hard work would take our family.

Mum had little experience in floristry from London and Dad was a

tailor when they bought Pearsons Bondi Junction. They started humbly living with the four kids above the shop.

From there Pearsons has grown into one of Sydney’s most established florist businesses, employing nearly 40 staff in our five contemporary stores. We are still very much a family business with my brother Bernard and his son Avi running our florist business, and I get the pleasure of managing our School of Floristry.

Barbara Pollak, Avi Pollak & Bernard Pollak.

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LEARN

LEARN

So how did the school start?

In 1998 we saw the need for more choice in Floristry training. It was always a challenge to find qualified staff and there were no private colleges teaching in Sydney.

So Pearsons School of Floristry was born.

The school started humbly with a short course program developed by my brother Bernard and myself in 1998. We then developed a program for people who wanted to make flowers their life, delivering a commercial floristry program. Our next step was to become a Registered Training Provider (RTO) offering the nationally accredited

a SFL30115 Certificate III in Floristry. I am an advocate of quality education in

Floristry and as the Pearsons Floristry School Director I am focused on providing

supportive, inspiring and

innovative training experience to each and every student.

At the heart of our school is our dedicated team of teachers. All are industry professionals, committed to sharing their passion and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom.

Today, the Pearsons School of Floristry is an award winning accredited training provider that has trained over 1,500 florists - many of who are rocking the flower world.

We measure our success by the success of our students and are so proud of the achievements the Pearsons School of Floristry students have made over the years.

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LEARN

What course do we recommend for those eager to start their life with flowers?

If you are serious about a career or business in Floristry then SFL30115 Certificate III in Floristry is a great place to start.

You will develop the very broad range of skills and knowledge that will underpin a

successful floristry career. Certificate lll will not only give you skills but also will build the confidence to follow your dreams in floristry. Past Pearsons School of Floristry students are amongst some of our industry’s most established names and each year more new talented Florists are finding their way in the floral world.

One element that we are particularly proud of is our Certificate III Enrichment Program. Our students gain access to industry contacts and special one off events that feature amazing Australian and International Florists. Last year was very exciting as we got to collaborate with both Flowers Vasette from Melbourne and McQueens Flower School from London as part of this Enrichment Program.

Course information can be found

and viewed on the Pearsons School website SFL30115 Certificate III in

Floristry pearsonsschool.com.au/certificate-3-floristry.

Running a floristry school for 20 years means Pearsons School of Floristry has seen many changes in the industry and we know that,

as a florist, you never stop learning. We are constantly reviewing our training

and seeking new ways to inspire our students and open them up to the limitless possibilities that this wonderful industry has to offer.

LEARN

Master Classes at Pearsons aimed at developing your floristry skills Students can go on to study

Master Classes where they will learn cutting edge design from inspiring

industry leaders. Pearsons School of Floristry runs Master Classes focused on technique and design.

The

Master Classes are aimed at developing problem solving skills so that students will feel more confident to take on complex design projects. For more Master Class information and scheduled class dates please go to the Pearsons School website and view pearsonsschool.com.au/master-class-information

Short courses may be the place for you to start

There is something for every flower lover at Pearsons School of Floristry and our range of fun and inspiring short courses we offer are ideal for those with little or no prior experience. Weekdays, weekends and evenings these courses are

suitable for beginners – flower lovers – industry florists building skills –

Pearsons School of Floristry offers a changing range of creative courses and workshops throughout the year.

The full range of short courses can be viewed on the Pearsons School website at pearsonsschool.com.au/short-courses

Join the Pearsons School of Floristry mailing list via the website pearsonsschool.com.au and connect - keep up to date via instagram @pearsonschool where you can view all that’s going on at the school day to day and our upcoming events.

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Hattie Molloy Botanica Concept Store Now Open

31 Johnson Street Collingwood, Melbourne Thursday - Saturday 11am - 6pm Sunday 11am -4pm www.hattiemolloy.com.au @hattiemolloy

Image : Stephanie Stamatis

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“ Do what you please, follow your own star; be original if you want to be and don’t if you don’t want to be. Just be natural and gay and light-hearted and pretty and simple and overflowing and general and baroque and bare and austere and stylized and wild and daring and conservative, and learn and learn and lea rn. Open your mind to every form of beauty” - Constance Spry

“Her name is Constance Spry” by Jessica Watts Art @jessowatts

AUTUMN TONES

Autumn Tones with Kate Bryce Florist of Two Wild Hands

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AUTUMN TONES

IMAGES : LUISA BRIMBLE

AUTUMN TONES

Words: Sonya Gardiner Images: Luisa Brimble

Hunter Valley, NSW-based florist Kate Bryce describes her personal floral style as “romantic, wild and organically inspired”. If you are following Kate on Instagram (@ twowildhands) you will see the romantic, the wild and the organic in her beautifully considered floral designs.

Often creating with just a few stems, to show off each bud, bloom, twist and turn, Kate enjoys challenging herself, using simplistic elements such as flower frogs and floral material at various stages of decay, for interest, tone and texture. For Kate, each season is impermanent – deconstructed and of the earth. It’s the art and philosophy of ikebana and wabi-sabi – the beauty of transience and imperfection – that truly speak to Kate’s creative soul.

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AUTUMN TONES

AUTUMN TONES

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AUTUMN TONES

Specialising in bespoke wedding floral design, floral bouquets and event design from her studio, we asked Kate to design an Autumn-inspired wedding bouquet, buttonhole, intimate organic table design and vase for this issue of the Flowerseekers.

Kate’s autumn design palette included tones of neutral, brick and blush florals accented with grasses, seed pods, seasonal fruit, natural silk ribbons, linens, Japanese ceramics and flower frogs.

Keep up to date and be inspired by Kate’s beautiful floral design work via Instagram @twowildhands If you are in need of florals for a wedding, special occasion/event or editorial, get in touch with Kate via twowildhands.com.au or email kate@twowhildhands.com.au

AUTUMN TONES

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AUTUMN TONES

FLOWER THERAPY

Limits Xavier Nicolle Florist Words: Beth Abood “The limit is not in the sky. The limit is in the mind.” Gold Coast Florist Xavier Nicolle’s posted this on Instagram in March 2017, around the same time she was relapsing from Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Today, Xavier is the owner of a successful floral design business – a dream she’s had since age eight – because she recognised early on that there were no real limits to what she could do – only those in her imagination.

After she was diagnosed, Xavier immersed herself fully in flower work – a satisfying challenge that pushed her through the cancer treatment. Since then, she has built a portfolio resembling that of a florist who’s been doing this for decades.

But she’s been in business only a year. After just ten months she achieved her tenyear goal: adding Louis Vuitton to the long list of high fashion brands she calls weekly clients. She’s had three out of four styled shoots published in print, and created “big things” for countless events – an ambition since her Tassie flower shop beginnings years earlier.

Her success has not come without struggles. Aching arms under the weight of water-filled vases after her stem cell transplant tested her body and mind. A bank account emptied by medical bills saw a Christmas – one she shared with her three kids and husband – without presents. Being “bald and looking grey” even stopped her approaching Louis Vuitton for six weeks.

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FLOWER THERAPY

FLOWER THERAPY

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But, with what she labels a “deluded level of optimism”, she never shied away from a challenge. When the vases were too heavy, she grabbed a trolley. When hanging installations felt overwhelming (she’s entirely self-taught on the big stuff), she’d work on something simpler first.

When Louis Vuitton declined her offer, she changed tactic. Xavier rejected the pre-supposed limits often placed on un-well people – by society and by themselves – and redefined them.

She admits, though, that she’s not superhuman.

Fear and doubt crept into her thoughts at times. But, she’d always ask herself two questions that forced her to work through the worst-case scenarios: “What do I have to lose?

What’s the worst that can happen?” Doubts would disappear soon after, so she could focus on succeeding.

There is a lesson in Xavier’s triumphs for all of us. Her story is today’s reminder that we have a choice in how we see our current situation.

There are no limits to what we are capable of – only those created in our imagination.

Struggles, if viewed so, are opportunities for growth. By focusing on what we want, and avoiding getting sucked into what we don’t want, we give ourselves a chance at a more enriched and full life.

INSPIRED

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INSPIRED

Char li B urr o we s o f Me Oh M y G ir l Shop the latest collection as exhibited at Vieille Branche online at www.meohmygirl.com

FLOWERSHOP

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FLOWERSHOP

Elka’s Garden Each and every flower shop is a reflection of the community it sits in and its owner.

Elka’s Garden in the seaside coastal town of Gerringong, New South Wales is a perfect example. A local, community florist shop reflecting the relaxed holiday vibe of its seaside location and the chilled sunshine personality of its owner, florist, Melanie Williams.

The locals all know Melanie, not only as the local flower chick but as “ Mel the surfer” and “Mel the mum” who is often seen skate boarding with one of her five kids.

Sharing a store space with a boho indie clothing and homewares store “Searching for Sage” is a business match in heaven – so many beautiful things in one collective space, think beautiful flowers, house plants, handcrafted giftware, dreamy boho indie clothing, organic handmade beauty products and jewellery. Melanie’s store is carefully curated with a diverse unique range of gifts handcrafted by local artists and creatives, every item selected with careful thought for the environment at heart. The connection with the local community – providing bespoke flowers and gifting for all occasions is something that brings Melanie much enjoyment and satisfaction. Seeing the delight on the faces of holiday tourists and travellers when they discover Elka’s Garden is another really happy feel good moment for Melanie and her staff. Owning her own business – a walk down the road from her home – gives Melanie the flexibility to manage a busy family life – work in a creative job she loves and get that good for the soul surf in when the surf’s up!

Melanie’s business Elka’s Garden is also a very well known South Coast wedding and event specialist and Melanie and her team love working with clients to put together flowers for their special wedding or event.

The Flowerseekers blog at theflowerseekers.com has more images of Elka’s Garden photographed by the very talented Lean Timms. Stop in and say hi to gorgeous Melanie if you are passing through Gerringong.

Elka’s Garden 2/135 Fern Street Gerringong NSW elkasgarden.com @elkasgarden T: 02 42 343 757

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ART FOCUS

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ART FOCUS

J en n y F usc a P a i n ti n gs Images: Amelia Grose Photography

About Jenny Fusca: My earliest memories are of nature walks with my father in our garden and drawing. I would pick flowers and press them in the pages of books to preserve their beauty. Later when the flowers had dried I would hold the thin petals to the light and study their structure. It was this love of flowers and my need to observe detail that led me to floral painting. I like to approach each composition with the intention of revealing something unseen or unnoticed about the flower. I think of them as “floral portraits”.

I work in the lively medium of acrylics, sealed with oil glazes, which brings the blooms to life on the canvas.

I often paint on an oversized canvases – limited in size only by the ability to get them through my front door! The large scale is immersive – providing a dramatic perspective into the floral world.

I am always looking for new blooms. In 2016 this quest took me to New York’s Botanic Gardens where I photographed hundreds of rare and vintage roses.

Closer to home, I visit parks, flower markets and neighbourhood gardens. As the seasons change there is always something new to admire.

My studio is located at my home in Sydney. In 2017 I created a collection called “Fiori” especially for Floriade in Canberra.

Meeting people and helping them bring a painting to life just for them brings me great joy. Commissions are a great way to own a painting.

View more of my work and contact me via my website or via email jennyfuscapaintings@bigpond.com.au Instagram @jennyfuscapaintings

ART FOCUS

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ART FOCUS

FLORIST LIFE

Oli vi a M e redith, Fl orist Th e L i ttle Fl ower Shop Introduction – Sonya Gardiner

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this magazine is connecting with the people that are a part of the magazine and hearing their stories of how and why they work in flowers whether it be as a florist – grower – artist or creative – its often a journey over time that develops. This issue I met Olivia Meredith a florist and owner of The Little Flower Shop in the Blue Moutains NSW. As Luisa Brimble captured images Olivia told me the story of how she came to be a florist.

Images : Luisa Brimble

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FLORIST LIFE

FLORIST LIFE

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FLORIST LIFE

Olivia Meredith:

but flowers were still drawing me closer

My childhood was nurtured with a love

and I wanted to have a career that

of nature, colour and beauty. My father

was family friendly. I was asked to do

is a horticulturist and I would help him

flowers more and more weddings

to look after rose gardens and other

and events and had never experienced

projects he was working on from a very

such fulfilment and love of my work

young age and was taught to look after

creating something beautiful to express

and appreciate nature.

people’s love for each other on the

Designing things from a young age,

most important day of their lives.

sketching and generally creating

I was then Head hunted for the role of

thingsin various forms from a young

Head of Creative for the Art Gallery of

age was a past time I immersed

NSW and turned it down to buy my own

myself in.

flower shop, The Little Flower Shop. I

Career wise I have had over 20 years

love my shop and my team, we are like

experience working in the creative

a little family. I now create flowers

industry including running the studios

for many many occasions, specialising

and creative directing for Studio

in Weddings and events and am the

Magazines across many titles, Brand

exclusive florist for One and Only

Manager/Creative Director for The

Wolgan Valley Resort.

Sydney Children’s Hospital Network

I feel like all the stars have aligned for

across all of their hospitals in NSW and

me and absolutely love what I do and

Head of Design for SBS Television.

interpreting people’s emotions using

I had been working with flowers for

flowers like a love note. I am inspired

years and when I was pregnant with my

daily by the beauty in nature and am

first daughter Pearl, I started to study

most content surrounded by blooms.

with a Japanese florist both eastern and western floristry and then fell

The Little Flower Shop

more and more in love with it and the

21 Station Street

tactile, sculptural nature of this form of

Wentworth Falls

creative expression and design. I then

@thelittleflowershop

did further study at both Pearsons

thelittleflowershop.com.au

School of Floristry and Tafe and then

T: 02 4757 3339

put my own spin on what I had learned.

I started my own Design Agency O and Co Creative and label Little Flourishes (selling organic blankets and textiles featuring Australian flowers)

GROW

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GROW

Olivieri Flowers Australian Grower – Doyalson – New South Wales Words: Sonya Gardiner | Images: Luisa Brimble

Each issue we strive to include an Australian based flower grower. Why? Because in today’s commercial environment, Australian based growers who have been tirelessly growing flowers to supply the floral industry (often for decades) are struggling to keep up with rising costs to produce and the large scale import flowers coming into Australia on high volume driving the price of local produce down. Our Australian farmers of fruit – vegetables – the meat and seafood industries are all experiencing the same struggle to keep their businesses profitable and their farms producing.

Imported flowers – fruit – vegetables – meat and seafood – they do have a place and are a very valuable resource for consumers – there are many products we simply cannot grow or produce here. Over saturation of imports into the market takes away – eliminates jobs in the Australian workforce. A balance needs to be found.

I like to advocate that we support our Australian based businesses and industries when we can to keep jobs in Australia – to support Australian made – Australian grown produce.

This issue I met with flower farmer Nate Olivieri of Olivieri Flowers. Nate and his two brothers Joe and Tony started their flower farm at Doyalson 27 years ago. They have over 75,000 sqm greenhouse space including state of the art gerbera greenhouses. All of their produce is hand planted and handpicked on the farm daily and they supply wholesale to vendors across Australia.

Growing flowers is a 365 days a year job and Nate and his brothers live with their families at the flower farm. Nate and his brothers have had to adjust their growing over the last 3 decades to keep up with the challenging commercial selling environment and the changing weather conditions. When they started growing at the farm they grew numerous different varieties of flowers throughout the seasons. Each type of flower has to be grown and nurtured differently and with rising costs and the competition of import flowers the Olivieri brothers over time and endured experience – took the strategy that to survive commercially they would focus and specialty grow just 3 premium types of flowers in high volume being Gerberas, Oriental Lillies and Asiatic Lillies a successful strategy that has made them a leading supplier across Australia. Olivieri Flowers are very proud and satisfied to be producing strong – perfect – premium Gerberas and Lillies to the Australian market.

Fresh is best and our local Australian farmers can provide that. Keep in mind next time you buy from a local grower in Australia you are supporting Australian based jobs and business.

You can buy direct from Olivieri Flowers at Sydney Flower Markets or you can make wholesale order enquiries via Nate Olivieri 04074377926 or 02 43588 331. Olivieri Flowers also have a retail florist shop on their farm and orders can be made online or by telephone 02 43588331 See more of the Olivieri Flower Farm at olivieriflowers.com.au

GROW

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WORKSHOP

Autumn Masterclass with Katie Marx.

When: 21st of April 2018 Where: Butterland, Newstead Vic

Please register your interest to: hello@butterland.com.au

HANDMADE

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HANDMADE

Botanical Hand Dyed Silk Ribbons & Textiles An Australian based business - Dominque is The Coterie - maker of botanical hand dyed silk ribbons and textiles. Dominque has a background in floral design and styling – her journey into natural dyeing is an organic one. Producing her beautiful range of products from her NSW seaside studio overlooking the vast ocean and bushland, Dominque’s colour palettes are constantly inspired and determined by the raw colours of nature and her constantly changing surrounds. With a focus on creating beautiful products using earth, animal and human kind materials the dyes are all fair trade – sustainable and organic.

Dominque uses minimal water and energy in her dye process and does not use any harsh chemicals. Ribbons are all dried by the ocean breeze and then rolled onto wooden ribbon spools.

A luxe range of bias cut silk ribbons and a range of limited edition silk and chiffon fabrics to accent your table scapes and styling are available. Colour palettes vary with the seasons and you can view the range on the instagram account of The Coterie at @the_coterie_ To order the current available range of silk ribbons, fabrics and a range of stunning taper candles visit The Coterie Etsy Store - thecoterieribbons.etsy.com/

HANDMADE

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Image Fortunate Fellow Photography | Florals Porter Hudson Florals

HANDMADE

FLOWER FOCUS

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FLOWER FOCUS

Botanical Name: Dahlia Family: Asteraceae Origin: Mexico According to the language of flowers Dahlias represent dignity and stability.

They are native to Mexico where they also find themselves the national flower.

Dahlias bloom from late December/early January to late April/early May and keep things interesting through Autumn.

As Dahlias are unscented they use their stunning colours to attract pollinators.

There are seemingly endless varieties of Dahlia from the hugely popular CafĂŠ au Lait (pictured here) to the more dainty multi coloured Collarette, to the single petal Platinum Blonde with is fluffy centre and the gorgeous tones of pointy petaled Pencil Watermelon.

For more Dahlia inspiration be sure to check out American farmer-florist Floret (@ floretflower) who grows the most delightful range of flowers.

Words – Floral Styling + Image Sophia Kaplan Plants + Flowers Ceramics by Tara Burke @ taracarbonara @sophia_kaplan

HOW TO

HOW TO : Press flowers Words : Beth Abood We are huge fans of flower pressing. It’s such an easy way to eternalise a flower’s beauty, which is so fitting for Autumn as we prepare to have fewer blooms around.

There are many methods, but here is just one way we know how: You’ll need: 1) A heavy book or flower press 2) Baking paper 3) Scissors 4) Beautiful flowers.

Steps: 1) PICK. Choose flowers that aren’t wilted, torn, or bruised. Cut ones that have just opened, when their colour is best. Do it on a sunny day, when the petals aren’t wet from rain or dew. Feel free to include stems and leaves.

Tip: Flowers with naturally flat faces are easier to press than those with a 3D shape.

2) ARRANGE. You can use a book or flower press for this step. If using a flower press, arrange the flowers on the cardboard sheets provided, close the press, and tighten the nuts. If using a book, place one piece of baking paper toward the middle of the book, arranging the flowers face down on top (get creative with this part – they make beautiful flat lay pics!). Rest a second piece of paper on top. Close the book.

Tip: To press more flowers just add more layers separated by paper – it dries them out quickly, so they don’t brown.

3) WAIT. Weight your book or press down with another few books. Leave it undisturbed for 3-4 weeks in a dry, dark place. Don’t peek – by far the hardest step!

4) REVEAL. After this time, take a look. You’ll know the flowers are ready if they feel papery. Peel flowers gently off the baking paper with your fingers, or use tweezers.

5) USE. Glue to gift cards, hang in frames or whatever else your artsy self can think of.

We want to see what you make! Tag us on Instagram @theflowerseekers

Image : Kate Bryce @twowildhands press collection

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AUTUMN Gift Guide

Shy sisters Bronze Rectangles $35 w w w. s h y s i s t e r s . c o m

Transition into cooler times with these hand picked gifts from our favourite stores.

Fleur McHarg The Flower Expert w w w. t h a m e s a n d h u d s o n . c o m

Zulu and Zephyr Rustle Pinafore $220 w w w. z u l u a n d z e p h y r. c o m

Grandiflora Fragrance Queen of the night $145 84.

grandiflorafragrance.com

Pelt & Hide : Jarrah Belt $ 2 4 9 w w w. p e l t a n d h i d e . c o m

Ta r a B u r k e Amphora 2 $250 w w w. t a r a b u r k e c e r a m i c s . c o m

Linen Bakers Apron in Blush $ 9 5 m a n t e a u n o i r. c o m . a u

Leaf Supply $49.99 w w w. l e a f - s u p p l y. c o m

Maple Soaps : Earl Grey soap bar $15.95 w w w. m a p l e s o a p s . c o m

COLLABORATION

EC O Y A co llabo r atio n w i t h lead ing flo r ists Mr Cook Jardine B o tanic Bl u s h Flo wer s

ECOYA have collaborated with some of Australiasia’s leading florists to create three Limited Edition Fragrances. This collection is the first ever collaboration for the home fragrance brand.

Sean Cook of MR COOK in Sydney, Kelly Karam of BLUSH in Auckland and Jardine Hansen of JARDINE BOTANIC in Tasmania, have designed their perfect bouquet in fragrance form, for ECOYA.

ECOYA General Manager, Claire Barnes, “We proposed to our florists the idea of creating their perfect bouquet. We worked with our perfumers to create variations of the florist’s ‘bouquets’. Our graphic designers worked with Sean, Kelly and Jardine to create packaging that depicts the essence of the fragrance inside. A really important objective for us was a true collaborative project between us all. The result is magical”.

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COLLABORATION

COLLABORATION

E CO YA X J ar d ine B o tanic Geranium and Green Leaves was designed in collaboration with Jardine Botanic Tasmanian florist and founder, Jardine Hansen.

A fresh and exciting composition with bergamot top notes and a heart of green leaves, sweet amber and geranium. An oriental base of vanilla, oud and patchouli deliver an earthy and sophisticated scent.

This limited edition fragrance is available in both the ECOYA Madison Jar and full-sized ECOYA Fragranced Diffuser.

Image : Cassie Sullivan Photographer

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COLLABORATION

COLLABORATION

E C OYA X Mr Co o k Pomelo, Mint & Vanda Orchid was designed in collaboration with Sydney florist and Mr Cook founder, Sean Cook.

An uplifting fragrance featuring citrus top notes of pomelo and orange. Infused with mint leaf and vanda orchid and blended with a velvety base of tonka bean, this perfume offers a bold and refreshing bouquet.

This limited edition fragrance is available in both the ECOYA Madison Jar and full-sized ECOYA Fragranced Diffuser.

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Images : Damien Milan Photographer

COLLABORATION

COLLABORATION AUTUMN DESIGN

Vanilla Thriller

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COLLABORATION

ECOY A X B lush Designed in collaboration with Auckland florist and Blush founder, Kelly Karam.

A heavenly white floriental boasting fresh green top notes and a heart of tuberose, jasmine and ylang. A base of New Zealand

Editor: Sonya Gardiner Creative Director: Eloise Jenkins @eloise__jenkins Contributors: Beth Abood writer @bethabood Cara Fitch florist @trillefloral Charlie Burrowes Photographer / Artist @meohmygirl Clancy Job photographer @clancyjob Flowers Vasette @flowersvasette Kate Bryce florist @twowildhands Luisa Brimble photographer @luisabrimble Lean Timms photographer @leantimms Amelia Grose photographer @ameliagrose Annabelle Hickson photographer @annabellehickson Kerstin Auer photographer @lillidadphotography Robyn Geering Photography robyngeeringphotography.com Sophia Kaplan @sophia_kaplan Magazine sales via theflowerseekers.com Advertising enquries email theflowerseekers@gmail.com Keep up to date with our daily flower feed via instagram @theflowerseekers

Views and comments expressed by individuals do not necessarily represent those of the publishers and no legal responsibility can be accepted for the result of the use by readers of information or advice of whatever kind given in this publication, either in editorial or advertisements. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the Flowerseekers

Next issue on sale 10 June 2018 94.

Image Luisa Brimble for the Little Flowershop