Learning the Art of Floral Arranging With DahliaThalia
Here at AHS we love bragging about friends within our community! Recently, we had the opportunity to sit down with the incredibly talented business owner behind Dahlia Thalia. Thalia graciously showcased her expertise, walking us through her own process, where we learned about the art of floral arranging and how we can improve our flower game with a few of her top tips!
AHS: What inspired you to become a florist?
DT: It was such a natural progression - and also a bit of a surprise! At the beginning of the pandemic, I was laid off from my job and found myself with a lot of time on my hands. I’ve always had an interest in gardening, but never had the time to explore it. Fast forward a few months and I had planted over 20 peony plants, 16 rose bushes, a variety of other perennials and a handful of annuals. I was left with so many flowers, so I started to teach myself how to design. When I say my design style is garden-inspired, I mean it quite literally!
AHS: So we have to ask… Are Dahlias your favourite flower?
DT: This is like picking a favourite child! Haha! I would say one of my comfort flowers is definitely a Cafe au Lait dahlia!
AHS: What are the key elements that you feel create an exceptional floral arrangement?
DT: I always try to incorporate movement, colour and something surprising! It could be a unique shape, scale or ingredient,. Ddepends on my mood! Similar to designing a room or styling an outfit, I try to make sure the design is cohesive and the ingredients work in harmony. Every flower has to serve a purpose and have its moment to shine!
AHS: Do you have favourite types of arrangements to create and why are they your favourite?
DT: I love designing arches! Or, any other type of installation. There is so much creative freedom and room to experiment. My favourite scenario is when a client lets me run with an installation design. The best work comes from that kind of trust!
AHS: We love flowers and plants at AHS, but we’re definitely nowhere close to expert level when it comes to arranging flowers we pick up and bring home. Where would you recommend starting with arranging flowers for someone who is a beginner?
DT: You can start at your local grocery store! They often have eucalyptus, roses and carnations available. Have a look on Pinterest and pull any designs that spark creativity! Grab any vessel you have at home, some tape and a pair of sharp scissors. You can create a grid with your tape, which will help you when designing. Once done, take some photos and see where you could improve, then, take it apart and try again! Practice really does make perfect - or something like it.
AHS: What do you recommend for someone who loves having florals in their home but maybe doesn’t have a huge budget? Is there a way to make grocery store flowers chic?
DT: Definitely! Instead of adding a full bunch of carnations in a vase, try scattering smaller bunches in bud vases around your home. Cut the stems at different heights to add interest and you will have a minimalist and modern design! You can also reflex your roses to open them up! You simply have to pull back the outer petals, one at a time. You can also blow on them to help them open up!
AHS: What do you recommend looking for when you’re picking out flowers to purchase?
DT: I recommend looking for a variety! You will want some greenery, filler blooms and a few showstopper flowers. The more dynamic the ingredients, the more interesting for the eye!
AHS: Do you have any tips for ensuring your arrangement stays looking fresh and lively?
DT: You definitely want to use a clean vessel and scissors! It makes a world of difference. Then, every few days you should refill the vase and give a fresh snip to your blooms. Avoiding direct sunlight and heat will also help with the arrangement’s lifespan.
AHS: Florals make beautiful hosting gifts. How do you recommend gifting florals over the holiday season?
DT: Great questions. Flowers are always a beautiful gift! I love the idea of a flower subscription, you can spread some joy during the coldest months of the year. Many local flower shops offer this service and I highly recommend it!
AHS: Being a Home and Style blog, we would also love to know about your personal style. Do you find the style of your interiors and your personal style within the realm of fashion overlap at all? Would you describe them in a similar way?
DT: I love playing with colour and texture in fashion, interior and floral design. I definitely am a bit of a chameleon when it comes to fashion and I tend to take more risks than I do in interior and floral. But, ultimately you can absolutely see an overlap in each category.
AHS: You’re a floral wizard Thalia! We love your arrangements, from the pictures we’ve seen from your weddings to your wreaths and dried arrangements. We’re obsessed! How might someone work with you for an event or order an arrangement?
DT: Thank you! That’s so kind. You can email me at thalia@dahliathalia.com!