I’m sooo excited about today’s blog post! We talked with Amanda of Nine Two Design Co. today all about flowers, wedding florals, and the wedding florist business! As a watercolor artist, I’m extra obsessed with flowers! Haha. So it was really fun getting to hear her answers about her favorite flower, fillers, and some trends coming up for 2023.
ABOUT amanda of nine two design co.
-Tell us a little about you and your business.
My name is Amanda and I own Ninety Two Design Co. We are a floral design studio that focuses the majority of our work on weddings and events. We do pop up shops and holiday workshops as well during our off season! Prior to starting my own business I went to school for radiation physics.
-What is your favorite part of being a florist?
My favorite part is taking a theme or vision and bringing it to life. I love sourcing and being able to choose what goes into that design. It’s fun to be able to search for different flowers, textures and colors and have it translate into an overall vision.
-Where did the name Ninety Two Design Co. come from?
I was born in 1992 – simple as that. We previously were called 92 Events and Floral Design but we didn’t feel like it represented the brand (and it was really long to say). In 2020, we rebranded to Ninety-Two Design Co. and never looked back!
-Are there any misconceptions about your job?
That being a floral designer is as easy as playing with flowers. No floral designer feels like they are playing with flowers after their 9th centerpiece or when they are going on their 12th hour of designing. Owning a floral design business and being a designer is physically and mentally taxing. We have a limited amount of time to be able to design and deliver due to the sensitivity of fresh flowers. It is so fast paced and no one is frolicking in fields looking for flowers to fill up an arrangement. It is all about prep and planning.
-How far away do you travel for a wedding?
Majority of our work is in Massachusetts and Rhode Island but we travel all throughout New England. I love when an event takes us somewhere we’ve never been before.
ABOUT THE BIZ
-How far out should couples book their florist?
I like to think 9 months is the sweet spot. I would say the range can be anywhere from 4-18 months out though! 4 months can be risky but I find the best weddings come together quickly and naturally.
-What are some things that couples are not asking their florist but should be?
I think it is really important for couples to understand and know what style florist you are working with. Budget is a big deal, but if you care about the flowers and you hire a romantic garden inspired florist for your boho wedding, you might be disappointed.
-What do you think will be some trends in 2023?
I think we will see A LOT of candle light and a lot of color. We need the color after the last few years!
-Are there any trends you’re sick of?
I hate to say it but eucalyptus and white weddings. Eucalyptus is great if using the right variety and it has some color to work with. Working with white is great but adding even just touches of muted tones gives an arrangement so much depth.
-How do you recommend couples approach a florist when they want a look they saw online?
First, I would recommend they use any photo they send to a florist as inspiration. Nothing your floral designer does should be a replica. When I have a couple send me a specific photo I always suggest things I would do that would accentuate the vision without taking away from the overall idea.
-I know couples wish they could keep their wedding florals forever! What is your tip for keeping fresh flowers alive for as long as possible?
Tips for keeping fresh flowers last the longest is giving your stems a fresh cut and new water every other day or so. Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight and heat. If you want to keep flowers forever, reach out to preservation companies! Biggest regret of my own wedding is not preserving my bouquet!!
SOME FUN QUESTIONS
-I’m SO sorry to make you pick buuuut: What is your favorite flower of all time?
Oh boy, I honestly think it changes every year. I have been on a sweet pea kick and have been obsessing over them lately. Before that, I would tell you my favorite flower was a dahlia.
-What are some of your favorite fillers?
I love using textures – hence my sweet pea kick! I love orlaya, feverfew and phlox.
-What are your top 3 favorite floral arrangements to create? (e.g. centerpieces, bouquets, floral arches, etc)
I would have to say ceremony arches, bridal bouquets and ANY installation.
-What was the most unique color palette you ever created for a wedding?
Probably a lavender, peach and coral wedding I did! Perfect spring palette.
