Poppies and Amber

Wispy Gestures

Sat, 19 Jan 2013 09:39:00 +1100

I approached my workbench as if it was a battlefield. Overeacting. I know. You can’t really blame me. It was just minutes after I’ve seen the genius of Nicolette and Sarah in live action. In other words, I just witnessed (with my own two eyes!) some crazy, out-of-this-world floral awesomeness. Here’s the story:

Once upon a November morning, as I was typically browsing through Saipua’s blog, I found out that Sarah and Nicolette are pushing through with their plans of coming to Oz to hold some workshops. I think I literally let out a silent scream..if you know what that means. It happens. I remember exactly how it felt. It was as if I took a “happy pill” or something. I was that excited. You see, the ladies I’ve been talking about are my favourite florists. There are only really three that I consider my favourites and two of those is this duo (who respectively runs their own business). I first accidentally discovered Sarah’s blog last year and my jaws just dropped when I saw her work. She has got a unique artistic touch and vision to her work. It’s a good mix of delicate and romantic, and wild and untamed that is altogether hauntingly beautiful. Through her blog, I discovered the talents of Nicolette. When I look at both of their work, it seems that it was dug up from the garden and was put straight to the vase. It captures the beauty of nature very well. They usually do some floral works together and teach at their own little school which, interestingly, they call “Little Flower School.”

To cut the story short (as I tend to get too carried away talking about them), I ended up signing up for the workshop, and last Monday I was in Newtown to meet them.

Some very talented florists and flower enthusiasts across Australia attacking the flowers.

I like Sarah and Nicolette’s style of teaching, especially if you really just want to enjoy and make good-looking arrangements. They are very laid-back yet informative, not to mention that they serve champagne in class ;)

I just had to take a photo of Sarah taking a photo. One more special thing about her blog are all the breath-taking photos. Trust me. If you love good photographs, you should visit her site. Plus, she will entertain you with her quirky humor.

Having met and watch these ladies work was overwhelming. It’s like you a have a lifetime dosage of inspiration. If you a person who really looks up to someone so much, you know what I mean. Finally, I got my claim-to-fame photo taken. I am very relieved that I smiled in a normal way.

One of the most important things I learned from Sarah and Nicolette was how to create “little moments” in my compositions (this was an “aha!” moment). It means telling stories and creating little clusters of interest and surprises with the way we arrange flowers. Here they are. ~~Pretty~~ please allow me to bombard you with my little moments…

Obviously, I am back to reality…babysitting my little nephew (and trying to run my business). I have to concentrate with this now, otherwise, who knows what this kid might do aside from sticking stuff to his mouth. I love him nonetheless.

Happy weekend! I hope you have an awesome one. As for me, I will be at Hunter Valley over the next few days. There will me more daydreaming to be done.

xx Sasha

Back in the land of Oz

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 01:30:00 +1100

Finally, I’m back in Sydney after “holidaying” for a month in Manila, my hometown. Coming back to Sydney is not so bad after all. No tears were shed. And I am relieved that it still does feel like home to me. At least the apartment unit I am currently renting is still intact. Whew. My only concern at the moment is how a three-hour time difference can make me feel jet-lagged (not sure if I really am…) Some say it’s all in the mind.

Yesterday, which feels more like today (ahhhh jet lag), my husband, brother-in-law and I drove to see my father-in-law. He’s got a new place so the boys had to help in fixing up some stuff…while I look after the little dog. I loved the big backyard, the trees, the swing and all the authentic vintage stuff around the house. I got excited, thus, the photos. I hope you like them, too.

Hmm….swanhill. Now I’m curious. By the way, I like this door but my husband will not be happy if I tell him I want to make this our front door.

Now back home… indulging myself with tea, chocolate and a “Russian” teacup (and really just showing off my newly acquired rug which I got on sale in Manila…). Also, I am getting ready for a hopefully “busy” year ahead. Poppies and Amber’s humble office is all set. Next, I’m praying for a proper workshop.

Today is Sunday. I want to wish everyone a good week, and may amazing or unique stories happen to us.

x Sasha

Exciting and such a pretty day yesterday! xx Romantic...

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 02:32:10 +1100

Exciting and such a pretty day yesterday! xx Romantic bohemian-inspired shoot.

Rise & Shine (by katiedaisy) HELLO SUMMER!!!! artwork by...

Sat, 01 Dec 2012 14:00:32 +1100

Rise & Shine (by katiedaisy)

HELLO SUMMER!!!!

artwork by the amazing Katie Daisy

Photo

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 14:19:43 +1100

Hello, Baby.

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 08:08:00 +1100

I was asked to help decorate my friends’ baby shower. I guess I had a little too much fun! Why not? Their baby only deserves the best!

D.I.Y. “knot bunting”. It’s nice to stray away from the usual triangles.

I love the stuff Cindy finds on the internet! These little bottles with striped straws are adorable.

This is probably my favourite photo of the day… (lol)

Books can either go on a bookcase or it can sit pretty on a table and help create a nice table scape.

Delish.

Our little, furry friend who never skips out on parties!

Flowers and styling by yours truly. Some of the props hired from Fresh Creative Styling. Thanks, Cindy & Anthony, for letting me raid your place and do all these!

xSasha

Earth In My Bucket

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:20:00 +1100

Can I have a bit of earth? -Mary Lennox

Well, I think I got a bit of it in my bucket. Oh the simple joy of working with flowers

Fondness

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 10:07:00 +1100

If you were to ask me now what my favourite flower is, I’d give you two possible answers: it’s either I have none or it depends which season. But if you asked me earlier this year what my favourite flower was, I would have given you a simple, straight answer….peonies!

This flower is lush, full and round which makes it irresistible. It’s history goes back thousands of years ago. Greek mythology tells us that Peonies are named after Paeon, a physician to the gods. He received a flower from Mount Olympus which was given by the mother of Apollo (although it’s quite interesting that even Greek gods need a doctor…).

There’s something about peonies that make them really attractive. Is it even possible to crush on flowers? If yes, I have to say I have a crush on peonies.

In 1903, Peony became China’s national flower. Peonies have been depicted in many Chinese art as well. It’s a symbol for “richness and honour”, as well as “good fortune” in marriage.

Quick post of a cheery bunch from today. Happy weekend! xx

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 19:15:05 +1100

Quick post of a cheery bunch from today. Happy weekend! xx

Lately...

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 17:48:45 +1100

Geez, how I can even begin to describe how I’ve been feeling in the past few weeks about what’s happening in the next few days, weeks and months. They are a big bunch of mixed feelings, that’s for sure.

I’ve been sharing with you my stories about flower school (and posting photos on Facebook) and I still can’t believe that my course is officially coming to an end this Saturday. Nine months really just passed me by. This whole year, really, just passed me by. I’m going to miss some really nice people from school though (and Peter, the shop’s florist, of course!). Now that I’ll have my Saturdays back…what to do, what to do…

Other things in my life are “simply” the things that I’ve never ever thought I’ll be doing. I can’t spill yet because but you’ll find out sooner or later anyway. All I can tell you for now is I am happy about my decision and I am VERY excited. ^___^ (I don’t usually do smileys like that, but yeah, that’s how excited I am)

Just a few more weeks before I fly to my hometown and I am sooooooo excited beyond words. I knew it was the right time to go back there this year, before I’m in full swing with whatever I’ll be doing in the next few months. Gosh, I miss old friends and family. I want to hang out at old familiar places and discover new ones (baka laos na kasi yung mga alam ko). I’m also organising a photoshoot with some very talented friends. I think it’s going to be tons of fun, and the shoot location is something VERY special to me and my family. *sighs* No place like home.

And for my final news…

U-huh. I’m driving. FINALLY.

Rustic Charm

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 12:35:00 +1100

As I have probably mentioned a million times before already, I love weddings! I always get quite excited when I get invited to one. It’s even more exciting for me when I get asked to do a little something for someone’s big day. Two of my friends are finally tying the knot early next year (first wedding of the year…at least on my calendar!) and here’s a little bit of what I did for their country-rustic vineyard wedding…

Gum and gum. Rustic wedding invites with an Aussie touch.

paper doilies have many uses after all…

work over breakfast

This is a short and sweet post. Happy Monday and have an awesome week ahead!

xSasha

Broom, Rags & Flowers

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 21:57:00 +1100

Early this month, I had a wonderful time doing a bit of work experience in such a beautiful and welcoming flower shop. I’ve always wanted to do some of my work experience with people whose floral works and skills I really admire so I’m really blessed to have had the chance to do it with Engadine Florist’s *The Sisters*. Naomi and Esther, who owns and runs the shop, really ARE sisters…and quite the sweetest and talented sisters, too. When you visit their shop, you will be greeted by the sweet and charming personalities of these ladies.

I remember when I first entered the shop, I felt like I was taken to my own version of fantasy land. Although modestly-sized, I was completely head over heels with the interior styling and all the pretty bits & pieces on every corner. It was as rustic as rustic can be. It was adorned with the sweet grandeur of flowers and some eclectic vintage furniture and ornaments. This shop obviously gets some serious love and attenion from Naomi and Esther. I was secretly wishing I could bring some of their stuff home because it would have fitted perfectly in my house ha ha. Well, I’ll stop writing about how I loved everything and start showing you some photos…

I’m jealous with the amount of crates they have! Ive been wanting quite a few for our house but they are usually very unreasonably priced ebay!

loving these mustard yellow jars

the back room

Floristry isn’t always a glamorous job. People still give me a confused look when I say that it is a very physically demanding job. Many people still think that floristry is only about “all the preeetttyyyy floweersss”, but the truth is it’s just a small chunk of it.

In my one week of stay at The Sisters, I did most of the “little” things around the shop. My first four days there, I really hardly touched flowers. My hands were almost glued on the broom, sweeping whenever needed or on the sponge washing vases every now and then. Twice, I unloaded the van full of flowers and that was like the highlight of my day as I got to touch “my precious.”

There were also days when I just had to pack and unpack things, put price tags on items for sale, empty the bin and make up hundreds of oasis bowls….

But having done those “little” things, didn’t make me feel bad at all. It was a fulfilling learning experience for me and gave me a realistic glimpse of what I am getting into. I have so much respect for Esther and Naomi, as they do all these things, aside from doing the creative and business side of their job, on a daily basis. They are both a very good example that the fulfillment of your dreams do not just fall on your lap…you have to work bloody hard for it.

On my last day, I finally got to touch the flowers! ha ha They made me do some little posies for the shop…and sold two! Weeee! ha ha What a beautiful way to end my work experience with them.

And oh here’s a photo of me with Esther (too bad Naomi is not in the picture)

And let me leave you with this…

Yep, life is truly an adventure. Who would have thought that from being a school teacher, I will be { hopefully} entering a world so different from what I’m used to. God truly has a way in bringing us to many facets of life. The things he has got in store for us is always a much more exciting adventure than the things we plan for ourselves-even if it doesn’t seem like it at first. Don’t miss out on that. Be the person God has wired you to be.

xSasha

Neon

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 19:57:00 +1000

Who would have thought that flowers can be trendy neon as well? I usually love the “gloomy”, dark palette so I’m quite happy I finally went for something really bright and happy. Looking at this makes me think that flowers can look funky, too!

pretty anemone in glorious full bloom

and that’s my little nephew…practicing for that day when he starts (dare I say it?) dating. (huhu kids grow up too fast)

I can’t believe it’s October and we are nearing the end of this year. I can’t wait for my trip back home in December. I miss Manila so much and it’s not too long ‘til I’m there. Big yahoooo! I miss the beautiful, sunny days at the beach. Plus, I’m excited to bring my floral adventures back to where my dreams started (drama queen! lol). I’m cooking up something special with my {creative} friends and I hope everything just pushes through.

xSasha

Girls Will Be Girls

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 10:08:00 +1000

Spent a lovely Thursday with my ever gorgeous friend, Mykee. It’s always nice to see old friends and familiar faces here in Sydney. It’s like having a piece of Manila right here. And, so this is what happens when two very girly girls come together…an explosion of girliness and tons of photos.

We went to the flower market at four in the morning with just less than two hours of sleep (bangag mode). Thank God for spring/summer, market mornings are not as unforgiving as when it’s winter.

This picture does not really show the liveliness of the market when it’s busy. We went on a “lean” day. This place is usually packed and bustling (and happy?) on days when florists come. I love its hustle and bustle vibe!

Market loot (and my ever-reliable styro box) The flowers look so neon!

There are a few flowers which I saw and bought for the first time. The ones on the left are called Chincherinchee. Say that again! (reminds of me the song…chincherinchee alibangbang.. haha) But they are absolutely gorgeous, aren’t they?

Mykee learns that making hair wreath is not as easy (or quick) as it seems! Nonetheless, she was a quick and creative “student”!

I wish I took more photos (Mykee, upload our photos please!) Anyway, here’s our finished product…

Mykee’s sweet wreath made of bright and cheerful daisies—her favourite flower!

And I went all Australian with my lush wax flower wreath

Once we finished the photo ops began…. (trust me there were four different cameras lol but I’m not gonna make you suffer, I’ll show you just a very tiny bit of what we took that afternoon)

Flowers are fun as they are beautiful. They can spark so many joyful emotions to people. Why don’t you spend time with your girl friends making gorgeous arrangements!

Have an awesome weekend. Cheers!

xxSasha

ohhhhhh myyyyyy…I want this bathroom!!! (amongst others...

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:04:28 +1000

ohhhhhh myyyyyy…I want this bathroom!!! (amongst others that I already want for myself as well) lol

just for mom.

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 15:13:22 +1000

just for mom.

woweeee. Love everything about this photo. Bright and witty and...

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 19:45:13 +1000

woweeee. Love everything about this photo. Bright and witty and reminds me of all things pretty :D

ohh i could sleep and dream in this room all day

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 21:50:37 +1000

ohh i could sleep and dream in this room all day

I Simply Remember My Favourite Things

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:31:01 +1000

…and now I don’t feel so baaad!!! (know the song? lol just a feel-good one for a Monday morning!) This arrangements is made of all things I love. Hellebores, anemones, ranunculus, snapdragons, eucalyptus and pieris japonica. Spring brought me to flower heaven.

Recently, I’ve been reading books about good, economical use of flowers. A lot of people think that a good flower arrangement needs to have a ridiculously big amount of flowers in it. Although a lot of times this philosophy works (and I wouldn’t mind having too much if they are for free!), it tends to be impractical and extremely expensive.

With the right skill and technique, creating an arrangement with “not much flowers” can still look lush and bountiful. Although I’m not an expert and still learning, the trick is clever placement which showcases each bloom. Flower choices should create an array of complementary textures and colour palette. Less is more. My inspirations for this are the works of two of my favourite floral geniuses, Sarah Ryhanen of Saipua, and Nicolette Camille. (I highly recommend that you check out Saipua’s blog. Sarah is just Ugh-mazing!)

A good read for inspiration hunters.

Bringing Nature Home by Ngoc Minh Mgo; floral arrangements by Nicolette Camille

Flowers On My Head

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 12:59:00 +1000

Morning, earthlings. It’s Friday again. Some flowers in the house are hanging on since last week and they couldn’t get more beautiful and glorious as they are today. Spent my morning making a simple garland with gigantic roses and getting cuddles from ‘mah dahling nephew.

It’s such a pleasant spring day today. It’s sleep weather. What a way to end the week…

happy weekend!