|
|
| My passion and inspiration come directly from what Nature produces. All the elements of composition – line, texture, form, colour, and pattern – are found there and it provides a good springboard from which to then re-interpret. I am constantly amazed by what Nature has to offer and never tire of the endless possibilities one can create with natural elements. I rarely start out with a preconceived idea – I look to what is offered naturally by the floral world and then take my cue from that.
My childhood was spent growing up in Dural, surrounded by the Australian bush and a cultivated garden. As my parents are artists, our home was an unusual and eclectic mix of styles and influences, particularly from Europe, with an emphasis on creating ‘visual feasts for the eye’.
|
Grandiflora started out very small, and while the business has certainly grown, we have never felt the need to expand into larger premises. I like to promote a creative atmosphere in the shop environment, and to encourage spontaneous interpretations from other staff members and our clients. It is a very fast-paced shop and vital that everyone is able to work in collaboration as a team.
|
We shop at the flower markets three mornings per week. This ensures that our stock is fresh, of premium quality, and the elements we use change on a frequent basis. It is like starting with a clean slate or canvas every few days, and helps to keep the creative juices flowing! Our customers love the ingredient of surprise that each new market brings, and some stop in purposely just to see what’s new.
The face of the markets has changed over the years, particularly with what is available now. It is a constant challenge to stay ahead of trends and tastes, and besides approaching growers for suggestions and ideas, we also look for complementary and unusual containers, and new ways of presentation. The business is in a constant state of evolution.
|
"It was an exquisite day. It was one of those days so clear, so still, so silent, you almost feel the world itself has stopped in astonishment at its own beauty."
Katherine Mansfield
|
"Sliding down the banister of life, may you never strike a splinter." 
| Grandiflora tends to cater for the more non-conventional taste, always producing something that makes a statement – whether it’s in a subtle mix of colour, a bold combination of unusual pods, foliage and flowers, or a massive installation using sculptural cactus, fruit, and unruly berries. We arrange flowers for lots of different occasions, including weddings, corporate events, funerals, magazine shoots, fashion, specialised gift bouquets, we also have an internet service whereby customers can order flowers over the website, choose a vase, make enquiries and cofirm which flowers are now in season.
In addition to this, we have produced a luxurious book, Grandiflora, which was produced together with my partner, photographer Gary Heery. We are currently working on Grandiflora II – due for release in 2007.
2004 saw the opening of the Grandiflora sister store, Jute by Grandiflora. Collaborating again with Alison Coates and Simone Gooch, the concept is a sculptural variation on the theme. Specialising in bespoke gift hampers and more permanent sculptural installations. We also invite you to our floral workshops. www.grandiflora.net |
|
|
