IOF Membership Spotlight: Sylvia Abraham of Bella Botanica Flowers

13 Apr

Each month, the Institute of Flowers spotlights an outstanding member who brings passion, talent and dedication to our floral community. In this month's Member Spotlight, we celebrate the incredible talents of Sylvia Abraham, the creative force behind Bella Botanica. With a passion for floral design that transforms weddings into unforgettable experiences, Sylvia’s story is one of dedication, artistry, and love for her craft.

Meet Sylvia Abraham of Bella Botanica

What's your top tip for making flowers last longer?"Make sure you condition the flowers properly when they arrive in your studio. I cut the stems at a diagonal, dip them in a quick dip, and place them in cold buckets of water overnight, before we strip off thorns & foliage. This ensures they are strong and sturdy when I start to work on them."

A Touch of Emotion

Tell us about a time your flowers made someone cry happy tears."On the morning of a wedding, when I deliver the bridal bouquet, it’s not uncommon for the bride to well up with joy. I’ve also had couples who, upon seeing the dining room before their guests enter, are so thrilled with the floral designs that they shed happy tears."

These moments are what make Sylvia’s work so rewarding.

Connect with Sylvia

To see more of Sylvia’s stunning floral creations, visit her website at www.bellabotanicaflowers.com. Follow her on social media for a glimpse into her world of flowers, creativity, and the joy she brings to each of her clients.

What's your favourite type of event to work on?

"My absolute favourite type of event to work on is weddings. I’ve built my business around that. The love for the couple from their families and friends is palpable on a wedding day, and I love playing a small part in it."

Sylvia’s commitment to her clients shines through in every arrangement. She believes that flowers have the power to evoke emotions, and she takes pride in creating beautiful designs that resonate with couples on their special day.

Behind the Scenes

What would surprise people about being a wedding florist?"Some people are surprised by the level of work that goes into wedding floral design, especially before you lay your hands on the gorgeous flowers. Consultations, creating mood boards, flower recipes, and flower ordering are just some of the things I do before the real fun begins."

The meticulous planning and attention to detail that goes into each event are what set Sylvia apart.

The Journey to Bella Botanica

How did you start working with flowers?"I had a previous career as a social care worker for 18 years. Wanting a change, my aunt taught me traditional floral design techniques over a couple of days. I then studied in Scotland and London and grew my business from there, all while working night shifts in my old job for two years."

Sylvia’s journey illustrates the power of following one’s passion and the joy that comes from sharing it with others.

judi roche