Flower Power

floral-industry

Thinking about a career in the flower industry? We look at the different stages of the flower market

• Growers: If you have a mind for science then becoming a grower of flowers could be the job for you. With a background in horticulture (the study of plants) growers need to understand things like proper temperatures, seasons for growing (and the different types of flowers in each season), maintaining healthy soil and sustaining the life and health of flowers.
• Distributors: This is for the business-minded. Sometimes distributors are merchants selling to other florists or they can distribute directly to the public. Whichever way they prefer to do business, distributors should have an understanding of costs, mark-up and marketing as well as being familiar with the floral industry.
• Designers: When you think of a florist, this is probably what you think of.  The front-of-house boutique shop workers with a creative flair that piece together all the flower arrangements we love to buy. Designers need a sound knowledge about flowers and plants, know how to care for and cut them and know how to design and arrange them.

Source: Wanda Starr

Flower Meanings
In Victorian times certain flowers had specific meanings because of a limited flower selection and people used symbols and gestures to communicate. Below is a list of historic meanings of flowers which has been compiled from a variety of different sources.
Top 20
Flower Meaning
  1. Camellia
Graciousness
  1. Freesia
Spirited
  1. Daffodil
Chilvalry
  1. Delphinium
Boldness
  1. Daisy
Innocence
  1. Heather
Solitude
  1. Iris
Inspiration
  1. Lilac
First love
  1. Orange blossom
Fertility
  1. Orchid
Delicate beauty
  1. Poppy
Consolation
  1. Pink rose
Friendship
  1. Sunflower
Adoration
  1. White tulip
Forgiveness
  1. Violets
Faithfulness
  1. Yellow carnation
Cheerfulness
  1. Geranium
Comfort
  1. Jasmine
Grace and elegance
  1. Red rose
Love and passion
  1. White rose
Purity and innocence
 
Source: www.aboutflowers.com

The role of flowers in our life
A study was done which found that the presence of colourful flowers heightens the feelings of life satisfaction, triggers happy emotions and memories, and influences social behaviour in a positive manner.
Source: www.ezinearticles.com

Top New Zealand Floral Designers

Lovell’s Flowers 4 You
This lovely shop is located in Hawera and is owned and operated by two ladies – Linda Garret and Jessica Mills. Both are passionate about flowers and love creating ‘that something special’ for customers. Lovell’s Flowers 4 You has been a top four finalist in Taranaki Top Shop and Jessica Mills has won a number of different awards for her design. Recently Jessica won 2013 Senior Young Florist Apprentice of the Year at the Flowers Work Wonders competition.
Source: www.lovellsflowers.co.nz

Flowers & Balloons
Located in Ashburton these are very experienced floral designers. From classic bouquets to disctinctive floral designs and themed events they can create masterpieces for any occasion. They sure do have talent as one of their young florists Nicole Hazelhurst, recently won the overall supreme award at the 2013 Flowers Work Wonders Young Apprentice of the Year!
Member of Interflora
Source: www.flowersandballoons.co.nz

Florienne
Established in 2009 by Franca Logan this is another award-winning florist, the stylish design studio is situated at the heart of Takapuna Beach. All flowers are handpicked from their daily selection of the freshest seasonal blooms and custom design arrangements to suit every floral expression.
Member of Interflora
Source: www.florienne.co.nz

A floral affair by Francine
Experienced in all areas of floristry, Francine Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge to her business. She has won many competitions and her association with fundraising events has earned her a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most influential floral arts designers. A floral affair aims to inject the industry with a new level of vibrancy and flair.
Source: www.afloralaffair.co.nz

Living Colour
Located in tourist hotspot Rotorua, this florist shop houses the great Nina Healey. Nina is an award-winning designer and international demonstrator who represented New Zealand at the 2010 Interflora World Cup which was held in Shanghai.
Member of Interflora
Source: www.livingcolour.co.nz