Harvey flower business blooms during isolation

A Harvey floristry business has had an unexpected boost during the coronavirus pandemic, seeing an increase in the demand for buds and blooms.

Flowers by Danae owner Danae Stalteri said she had been inundated with orders despite many weddings and birthday events being cancelled.

“Initially I was worried because all my events were cancelled and I did not know whether I was going to get any work,” Miss Stalteri said.

“However, I found that people were still ringing and placing orders for flowers.

The pandemic isolated many people from their friends and family and so a lot of them would send a bunch of flowers to show their loved ones that they were thinking of them.

The 23-year-old said there was a shortage of flowers in WA after a busy Mother’s Day.

“Mother’s Day was probably my busiest day on record,” she said.

However, now WA is facing a flower shortage because all the flowers were picked for Mother’s Day and the border closures are limiting access to growers and markets.

“We are waiting for local flowers to grow back.”

Miss Stalteri said she started studying floristry three years ago after not knowing what she wanted to do.

“One day I came across an article on floristry and because I was creative and artistic, I decided to sign up to a course at TAFE and give it a go.”

“I really enjoyed it and found my own unique style when creating bunches of flowers that crossed a modern look with a vintage vibe.”

She said her mum Darlene, dad Peter and sister Kristy had supported her along the way and even helped out when times were busy.

“My family has been so helpful, especially during big events like weddings where I spend three days preparing.

However, it is all worth it when I walk in with the flowers and see the big smile on the bride’s face.

“There is a huge sigh of relief, because in that moment I know people are happy with my work.”

Miss Stalteri encouraged other creatives to take the risk and fuel their passions.

“Don’t be scared, you may find your risk pays off,” she said.