We catch up with Stephanie Gonzalez of Isáchi Flowers and Crafts following the premiere of Fleurs de Villes Downton Abbey at Bal Harbour Shops.

YOU CREATED TWO STUNNING FLORAL MANNEQUINS FOR THIS SHOW – WERE THERE ANY SPECIFIC CHALLENGES, OR SURPRISES, COMPARED TO PAST SHOWS? 

Bringing not one, but two mannequins to life was a challenge in and of itself. As far as the design process, this show was quite different. We had to create something based on the characters of the show, following a strict inspiration photo. This posed a challenge because we had to create the mannequin exactly as pictured so that people could understand the reference. This was unlike other shows, where our work is an artistic interpretation of a topic, which gives us more freedom as to what we want to create or how we design. 

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WITH THREE SHOWS UNDER YOUR BELT NOW, DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR NEW FLORISTS CREATING THEIR FIRST FLORAL MANNEQUIN THIS YEAR? 

My suggestion is to take the leap! I often say this, but participating in installations for Fleurs de Villes has helped me think creatively and break away from conventional floral arrangements and weddings. It’s been an incredible learning experience, exposing me to new mechanics and innovative ways to bring designs to life. The field offers valuable lessons as you face challenges and pressure, which are essential skills that can be applied to various fields of work. Don’t miss out on this opportunity; it’s worth the challenge and will test your skills to the limit!

WHAT FIRST SPARKED YOUR PASSION FOR FLORAL DESIGN?

I have always been creative and just never knew what my outlet would be. Since I did a lot of crafts I had a friend ask me to create faux floral crowns for her and her bridesmaids to wear for a bachelorette. It was the first floral thing I had ever done and made me realize that I actually really liked it. It was the perfect mix of crafts and nature.

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WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE FLOWERS TO WORK WITH AND WHY?

Cymbidium orchids are truly captivating to work with. Their beauty is unmatched, and they come in a vibrant array of colours. These resilient flowers are not only suitable for arrangements but also for submerged displays. Their versatility makes them an ideal choice to add an exotic touch to any arrangement.

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WHAT'S THE MOST UNUSUAL COLOUR COMBINATION YOU'VE EVER USED IN A FLORAL ARRANGEMENT?

I’m not sure if it’s unusual, but I genuinely enjoy creating arrangements with deep purple, electric blue, and bright green. These colours together are definitely one of my favourite combos, and I find that together they look both shocking and alien-like.

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THE SCENT OF FLOWERS CAN BE AS POWERFUL AS THEIR VISUAL APPEAL. DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE FRAGRANT BLOOM, AND HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE SCENT INTO YOUR DESIGNS?

I absolutely adore the unique scent of hyacinths. I love adding fragrant flowers to arrangements, particularly lighter ones like stock, freesia, or specific rose varieties that are gentler on the nose and allergies. I always take into account fragrances and their potential impact on customers, so I refrain from using flowers with stronger fragrances unless they are specifically requested.

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

Sunflowers hold a special place in my heart. Every birthday, my mom would wake me up with a delightful breakfast and a bouquet of sunflowers. Even though she’s no longer with us, I occasionally buy sunflowers, particularly on birthdays, as a way to honoUr her memory and keep her spirit alive.

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WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE FLOWER-RELATED QUOTE OR SAYING THAT RESONATES WITH YOU? 

One flower-related quote that deeply resonates with me is a line from Ralph Waldo Emerson’s poem Hamatreya. Emerson says, “The Earth laughs in flowers.” I came across this fragment on the tag of a tea bag one day, and it has remained with me ever since. The poem delves into the futility of earthly possessions and plays on the theme of the impermanence of life, suggesting that ultimately, we as humans form a part of the earth and that we are not its masters. The concept of the earth laughing in flowers can serve as a reminder to appreciate nature and our place within it, rather than viewing ourselves as separate entities. This idea further deepens my appreciation for flowers and the impermanence they embody in life.

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Fleurs de Villes Downton Abbey is licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC © 2025 Focus Features LLC.