Welcome to RENDEZ-VOUS - monthly inspiring chats with our celebrated global florists. The latest in our spotlight is Courtney Kroymann of Fena Flowers in Seattle, Washington. Our guests at Seattle’s NorthWest Flower and Garden Festival in February 2020 were stopped in their tracks by the whimsy and talent in her super stylish couture mannequin. 

DID YOU STUDY FASHION?

No background in fashion for me! I have a degree in underwater geology. I just love details, especially when using flowers as a medium. Floral glue makes it really easy to create some very interesting things with both colour and texture. 

WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION FOR YOUR MANNEQUIN?

I was inspired by the Italian actress Sophia Loren - bright bold colours for a bold woman! I imagined a luxurious red carpet gown with a deep low back and lots of chic accessories, such as the purse and fascinator headpiece.  

WHEN DID YOU FIRST DISCOVER YOUR LOVE FOR FLOWERS?

I took a horticulture class in high school and we made Thanksgiving centerpieces, Christmas wreaths and corsages for prom. I think that is where the love of flowers and the knowledge that I could work with flowers for a living came from.

IF YOU WERE A FLOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Lily of the Valley is, by far, my favorite bloom. Living in the Seattle area, Lily of the Valley comes up in late April and early May. I love seeing it in my garden during that season.

WHAT IS THE MOST MEANINGFUL ARRANGEMENT YOU HAVE CREATED?

My beloved aunt passed away this past year due to cancer. Creating flowers for her family memorial was very special to me. She was a peaceful soul who had to have alstroemeria in her house every week. She also was a big supporter and cheerleader of mine throughout my career. I put a lot of love into her memorial flowers ( and a lot of alstroemeria!)

WHAT IS YOUR TOP FLORAL TIP FOR OUR FLEURS DE VILLES GUESTS?

Take your time to really enjoy all the unique details and artistry of each design. Hundreds of hours have been put into each display and take several viewings to really capture all the details.

WHO INSPIRES YOU FROM THE WORLDS OF ART, FASHION, ENTERTAINMENT OR DESIGN?

My inspiration comes from many different art forms and artists. I am inspired by color and am drawn to bold bright hues. As a child, I went to the local art museum and saw work by Georgia O’Keeffe; her use of color and paintings of flowers were mesmerizing.

I enjoy botanical gardens and am inspired by their design.

HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE FLOWERS INTO YOUR PERSONAL STYLE – FASHION AND/OR HOME?

I just love flowers, period. They can be found all over my house in small vases and in fun accent pillows or décor. Green plants are also a favorite - I love having large potted plants and succulents on my fireplace mantle. I don’t try to buy clothing with floral prints, but they have definitely found their way into my closet. I like botanical jewelry - especially pressed flowers or odes to nature.

WHAT IS YOUR IDEA OF THE PERFECT FLOWER ARRANGEMENT TO RECEIVE?

I love colour! For me, an arrangement that is very vibrant and colourful would be perfect. I do enjoy unique flowers like different varieties of orchids, tropicals and succulents. I also love texture or different natural elements like branches, moss and rocks.

IS THERE AN OUTSTANDING FLOWER THAT HAS PLAYED A ROLE IN KEY MOMENTS OF YOUR LIFE?

The garden rose. When my husband and I moved into our house 14 years ago, I planted a few new garden rose bushes in our yard - bright orange and hot pink! These plants have thrived over the years and are the showstopper in my garden every year. These flowers remind me of many significant moments in my life that have occurred at my home.

WHAT SCENT DO YOU WEAR? USE IN YOUR HOME?

I’m a pretty laid back, no make up type of person, but I do love lavender scents in my home. I also just received a beautiful aloe candle that smells delicious.