Winter Event Seasonality
Embracing Seasonal Florals
Introduction
Hello, everyone. Today, I want to share a different kind of post with thoughts on seasonal winter floral design and client “inspo”. Recently, I stumbled across a discussion among florists in a Facebook group. They were seeking guidance on designing for a winter event, inspired by an image featuring a long, beautiful table garland.
Understanding Seasonal Florals
The image shared as inspiration showed a garland enriched with various types of eucalyptus set alongside rows of pillar candles. For someone working in a cold climate, like here in northern New York, it's crucial to discuss the seasonality of such elements with clients to ensure they complement the setting.
Why Is Seasonality Important?
When crafting event designs, understanding and utilizing seasonal florals brings numerous benefits. Here are the top reasons why seasonality should guide your floral choices:
Cost Efficiency: Seasonal flowers and greens are more readily available, reducing costs associated with importing non-native florals.
Environmental Impact: Importing out-of-season florals increases the carbon footprint due to shipping needs.
Aesthetic Harmony: Seasonal botanicals naturally fit the local ambience, creating a seamless integration with the event environment.
Guiding Clients Through Seasonal Choices
Many clients might not have a grasp of flower seasonality, as was my case before delving into the floral industry. Here's how to guide them toward seasonal options:
Discuss Alternatives: Start by acknowledging their inspiration and explain why it may not be feasible. Provide options that mirror the desired aesthetic with seasonal substitutes.
Offer Education: Share insights on local seasonality, helping them understand the availability of flora throughout the year.
Set Realistic Expectations: Educate clients on the potential cost and environmental savings when choosing seasonally appropriate designs.
Creating a Winter Garland
While the initial inspiration may not be practical for a cold winter setting, beautiful alternatives exist. For a winter event here, I would suggest:
Seasonal Foliage Options:
Blue spruce
Juniper with berries
Cedar
Pine
Textural Elements:
Fluffy grass seed heads
Textured wintry grass ribbons
These alternatives offer the same aesthetic appeal with a more eco-friendly and budget-conscious approach.
Redefining Inspiration
It's vital as designers dedicated to local and ethical floristry to transform inspiration into unique creations, avoiding the pitfalls of replication. By using what nature provides at any given time of the year, you contribute to a sustainable practice that elevates your brand.
Conclusion
Transitioning to seasonal florals might seem challenging at first, but it's an accessible change. The necessary resources are often right at your doorstep. Even without personal land for harvesting, local wholesalers can offer these cost-effective, low-impact alternatives. Embrace the change, and you'll find the process enriching and rewarding.
Let me know if you have any questions, and I look forward to discussing more seasonal design strategies soon. Have a wonderful day!