Welcome to RENDEZ-VOUS - monthly inspiring chats with our celebrated global florists. Our florist this month is Alejandro Figueira Fernandes, AIFD CFD from Alejandro Figueira Floral Artistry in Miami. He has a 20-year history in the floral industry, and we've been honoured to feature his stunning floral installations 3 years in a row at Fleurs de Villes' shows at Bal Harbour Shops.
WHEN DID YOU FIRST DISCOVER YOUR LOVE FOR FLOWERS?
I have always been involved in the world of flowers. I was born and raised in a family dedicated to the world of gardening, I can say that flowers were my first toys.
IF YOU WERE A FLOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
A somewhat difficult answer to answer as all the flowers are beautiful and unique, but if I had to choose one I would like to have been a Gardenia because of its aroma and as it's said that gardenias are a perfect place for angels.
WHAT IS THE MOST MEANINGFUL ARRANGEMENT YOU HAVE CREATED?
I have a long list, but one that comes to mind is the floral decoration for the Gala dinner in honor of tenor Luciano Pavarotti at the Hotel Gran Melia Caracas-Venezuela, March 2005.
WHO INSPIRES YOU FROM THE WORLDS OF ART, FASHION, ENTERTAINMENT OR DESIGN?
Venezuelan plastic artists Alejandro Otero, Carlos Cruz Diez and Jesus Rafael Soto.
WHAT IS YOUR IDEA OF THE PERFECT FLOWER ARRANGEMENT TO RECEIVE?
A perfect arrangement is one where all the knowledge of floral design "Elements and Principles" is expressed, and one that showcases different techniques and applications.
IS THERE AN OUTSTANDING FLOWER THAT HAS PLAYED A ROLE IN A KEY MOMENT OF YOUR LIFE?
Paphiopedilum glanduliferum (Lady's slipper orchid).
WHAT IS THE TOP FLORAL TREND YOU ARE SEEING RIGHT NOW?
The 2023 Pantone color of the year is Viva Magenta, so I think it is a very passionate, energetic and romantic year with beautiful textures coming from the immense variety of floral species in red tones.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE YOU SEE PEOPLE MAKING WHEN IT COMES TO CHOOSING FLOWERS?
I've observed people buying flowers based on what they feel at that time, not knowing how to mix the different textures and how to apply a harmony of color theory.
CARNATIONS. YES OR NO?
YES. Dianthus caryophyllus, known as carnations are perfect and beautiful, with a very balanced fragrance for any floral composition. Dianthus caryophyllus are a very versatile floral species for floral design as they allow you to create excellent shapes, achieve perfect surfaces, and they have an extensive variety of beautiful colors and patterns. My recommendation to all my colleagues is to use the botanical name of this species rather than "Carnations" as a way to champion these beautiful flowers to our customers.
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