Flower arranging for the Royal Family, with Shane Connolly

In the latest episode of the BBC Gardeners' World Magazine Podcast, florist Shane Connolly shares his unique insights into the world of royal floristry. Having arranged flowers for significant royal events such as the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, Connolly delves into the process of creating floral displays that are both beautiful and environmentally sustainable. He explains that the momentous nature of these events doesn't quite hit him until after they are over, highlighting the importance of focusing on the task at hand rather than the pressure of public scrutiny.

Connolly discusses his preference for using British-grown, seasonal flowers, which presents its own set of challenges, such as limited availability depending on the time of year. He stresses the need for clients to trust the flexibility that comes with using seasonal blooms and the artistic interpretation that follows, likening floristry to painting with nature's palette. He recalls meticulous planning for royal events, resulting in fewer last-minute surprises and the joy of working with naturally beautiful flowers.

Additionally, he addresses the symbolism embedded in floral arrangements, emphasizing the historical significance of various flowers and their meanings. Yet, he reassures listeners that while he considers these factors, he does not let them dominate the creative process. The podcast also touches on sustainability and Connolly's choice to avoid floral foam, opting instead for environmentally friendly alternatives like traditional methods of arranging in water.

Shane shares his personal gardening experiences and the contrasts between large-scale events and his own garden preferences, which lean towards more casual and less flowery designs. He concludes with practical advice for individuals planning floral arrangements for weddings or events, encouraging them to work with skilled florists and focus on the beauty of simple, well-executed arrangements.