Inspiring florist: Sabine Darrall, UK

How did you get into floristry and how did you get to be where you are now?

I’ve always been fascinated with flowers and chose floristry over university. I enrolled in a two-year full-time City & Guilds course and trained with some of the best florists in London. I learnt a lot from the previous generation of florists who used traditional methods and mechanics. Today I realise just how valuable that knowledge is in the search for more sustainable practices for floristry.

I started my own business in 1995. But after a few years working on contracts and large corporate events I realised that, although the work was very profitable, I wasn’t happy. I missed the creative connection and freedom that comes with designing for an individual. I’d also become bored of the city so gave it all up for a life in the country. At the time it seemed a crazy thing to do, but being based in the countryside allowed me to create the kind of designs I love. Using seasonal flowers and materials in a natural uncontrived style.

Over 40 years later I’m still doing the job I love.

Working in a creative environment, connected to the seasons, earning a living where every day is different.

It’s not a job, it’s a joy.

What are you doing now?

Now I create designs for a limited number of events each year and run courses and classes from my studio in our orchard here at Lyne Down. We’ve 18 acres of organic land, a wild flower meadow and cider apple orchard surrounded by beautiful Herefordshire countryside.

When the pandemic hit I realised very quickly that my business would have to change. I moved my teaching online, creating my membership platform Blossom and Prosper.

Teaching and mentoring is something I’m very passionate about. It’s not an add on to my business, it’s an integral part of it.

You’ve been a pioneer in teaching sustainable floristry practices. As an educator, what do you think are the most important skills someone needs to learn if they are considering becoming a florist?

As a florist, I believe the most important skills are a combination of technical knowledge and creative intuition. First and foremost, you need a deep understanding of flowers—their varieties, seasons, and suitability for different designs and environments. This knowledge is key to working sustainably.

Buying acumen is also crucial — not just in terms of quality, but also considering the sustainability and origin of the products you use.

Resourcefulness is another essential skill. Floristry often requires adapting to the materials and situations you may encounter, which is where a strong understanding of mechanics comes in.

Finally, developing an eye for color, texture, and balance will help you to create designs that are visually striking while also working in harmony with the materials. It’s this combination of knowledge, practicality, and creativity that makes a successful and sustainable florist.

What aspect of floristry brings you the most joy?

Building a flower community is something I am 100% committed to.

A welcoming place – not one of cold shoulders and un-sharing attitudes.

I feel a responsibility to hand down knowledge and give generously.

It means something to me, and I’m blessed to have a huge and wonderful pool of alumni who are my flower family.

I thrive on new ideas and solutions. Each time I do an event, each time I work with flowers, I am looking for ways to improve, particularly with mechanics and sustainability. Passing that on to help others brings me the most joy.

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about being a florist?

I think many people confuse professional floristry with flower arranging and visual styling. Floristry is a service industry. The rise of social media has led to many people calling themselves florists who in reality are arranging flowers (often very well) and styling beautiful images – but not actually working in the industry.

A florist is a designer, stylist, salesperson, photographer, bucket and floor washer, delivery driver, HR person, health and safety person, therapist, accountant, copywriter … the list goes on.

It’s a profession, not a hobby.

What are the top 5 items in your toolbox?

Compostable bin bags

I once used them for making garlands after forgetting the rope and of course I bag my green waste up in them.

White gloves 

We wear them when placing glasswear. They stop smear marks and make us look super smart!

Wax dots

To stop wobbling candles.

Snips and a knife 

I’ll use any make – I’m not fussy and I’m always losing them or stealing other peoples …

Reel wire 

Has solved many a problem…