London, September 19, 2023 – Sustainability in floristry is no longer just a trend; it’s a necessity. This sentiment was strongly echoed by London-based Floral Designer Yan Skates, known for his work with Bespoke Flowers and his appearance on Netflix’s “The Big Flower Fight.” Skates recently attended the Interflora World Cup held in Manchester, UK, from September 7 to 9, where he witnessed a profound shift towards sustainable practices in the world of floristry.
Sustainability: A Trend or a Requirement?
Reflecting on the Interflora World Cup, Skates pondered whether sustainability is merely a trend or an essential requirement. He noted that sustainability was undeniably a prominent trend at the competition, but he also pointed out that the event’s organizers explicitly emphasized its importance. This raises the question: Is sustainability in floristry merely a passing trend, or has it become a non-negotiable requirement for the industry’s future?
The Era of No Floral Foam
One of the most significant shifts observed by Skates and other florists is the move away from floral foam, a material widely used in the past but now regarded as environmentally harmful. Florists are actively seeking alternative ways to sustain flowers without relying on this foam. Skates emphasized that florists from around the world are converging on a common solution – utilizing exotic flowers. Exotic varieties like bromeliads, succulents, orchids, Anthuriums, and Heliconias have gained popularity due to their ability to thrive with minimal water. These flowers are known to last longer, especially when placed in test tubes, which is how they are typically delivered to florists.
A Notable Exception from Germany
While the global trend pointed to exotic flowers, Skates highlighted a notable exception: Nicolaus Peters from Germany, who not only stood out but also emerged as the winner of the Interflora World Cup. Peters showcased an impressive suspended floral arrangement entirely composed of locally sourced flowers from a flower farm and English cottage flowers, demonstrating that sustainability and creativity can go hand in hand.
The Decline of Yarn and Wool
Skates also noted a significant absence at the event – the use of yarn and wool, materials that were once ubiquitous in floral arrangements. The Interflora World Cup showcased a departure from these traditional elements, signaling a shift towards more contemporary and eco-friendly choices in floristry.
Embracing Naturally Flowing Mechanics
Another striking trend observed at the competition was the preference for naturally flowing mechanics. Even in cases where floral arrangements incorporated rigid elements, they were designed to appear fluid. Skates pointed out that the theme of the 3rd task, which included waves in its title, may have contributed to this natural flow in the designs.
Strong Engagement and Knowledgeable Audience
In general, Skates noted a significant level of interest in the designs displayed at the Interflora World Cup. Attendees crowded the green with demonstrations and engaged actively with the competitors’ stalls. While direct interaction with competitors was restricted, the Competition Moment Makers, identifiable in their “Here To Help” t-shirts, did their utmost to address the audience’s inquiries. Skates was impressed by the evident knowledge and enthusiasm of the crowd, with several former and current competitors among the onlookers.
In conclusion, the Interflora World Cup 2023 showcased a remarkable transition towards sustainability within the floristry industry. This shift, from the abandonment of floral foam to the embrace of exotic flowers and eco-conscious materials, reflects a growing commitment to environmental responsibility among floral designers and enthusiasts. Sustainability, once a trend, has undoubtedly become a fundamental requirement in shaping the future of floristry.