This Industry insider focuses on florist Dean Sharpe, following his process, while he sets up a wedding. A follow up to the day I spent with Dean prepping all the flowers for this wedding. You can read that here if you haven’t already or carry on reading to see how the designs turned out.
Arriving
I took the turning for The Upper House and ended up on a long gravel drive. To my right I spotted cute little picket signs so I pulled over. I had to take some photos. Carrying on up the drive I spotted a gorgeous red brick house (not that I could miss it) perched on a hill. What a beautiful setting. Dean arrived at the venue very early but due to the rooms not being ready he hadn’t advanced very far. I can only assume this is a frustrating matter that happens to a lot of florists. With not much to do until the designs are in place, Dean was replacing dried leather leaf when I arrived. The hot weather was clearly an issue, luckily the light and airy conservatory where the wedding breakfast was held was very well air conditioned.
The Foliage Staircase
The formal reception area is home to a grand winding staircase where Dean had covered the banister in foliage. Using the same foliage as the other designs (leather leaf, asparagus fern and a eucalyptus mix) he transformed the staircase. Stunned I asked how long it took to which Dean casually replied, about an hour! He was yet to add the gypsophila which he would do later due to the heat. So many factors seem to fight against you as a florist, but you must be able to overcome them no matter what! A tough gig if you ask me, so kudos to all florists out there.
This mini clip is of Dean adding the gyp to the staircase design.
Mistaken for the photographer’s assistant by the groom, Dean explained to him my role for the day. I took this comical moment as an opportunity to ask him about why they chose Dean to create their wedding flowers. As a stereotypical groom, he wasn’t much help and laughed while telling me I had asked the wrong person. I left this alone as I knew better than to bother a bride on her wedding day. Dean informed me later that she found him through Facebook. Dani had sourced all local business' for her wedding which is a nice detail. Dean had to compete for the job, however this was no problem for Dean and he out shone the other florist in Dani's eyes.
All in the detail
With only the hydrangeas left to place into the designs, Dean concentrated on putting larger designs together and adding the little details. Placing the domes on top of the glass vase centrepieces created an instant wow impact. Pulling out hanging glass spheres and a string of crystals, Dean worked his magic. Once completed it was time to start moving the designs into the correct places. It was exciting to see everything slowly come together.
Dean's Fan Club
As soon as the guests started to arrive so did all of the compliments and congratulations, however not to the bride or groom. Dean seemed to have a huge fan club at this wedding, everyone knew his name. Dani had told everyone about how fabulous Dean was, personally and professionally, not leaving out his win at Chelsea. I have never seen thanks and appreciation so much between a business and their client.
The bridal suite was buzzing with excitement and joy, increased with the arrival of Dean with the flowers. Everyone was in awe of the Minnie Mouse head for the flower girl, but how could you not!
The two days spent with Dean were such creative and eye-opening days and I loved every second. It enlightened me to the beauty of floristry but also the hard work that’s involved. For all you readers, I hope you have also gained the same insight as me if you weren't already in the know.
There are many florists with lots of different styles and skills. After shadowing Dean I can’t wait to meet with other florists in different areas of the industry. Keep an eye out for more posts from our Industry Insiders.