As the festive season draws near, local florist Leonie Golden from House of Flowers, Golden Beach, shares a glimpse behind the counter during the busiest and most beautiful time of year.
There’s a special kind of magic in the air at Christmas. The scent of pine, fresh foliage, and festive blooms fill the shop, while shelves sparkle with decorations and gifts. Customers drop in, full of excitement and generosity, and the team hums along to Christmas music as they create arrangements expressing colour and joy. Between the laughter and last-minute orders, Leonie and her team also offer a gift-wrapping service — a small touch that adds a little extra cheer to the season.
When it comes to Christmas flowers, classic reds, whites, and greens remain timeless favourites. Think roses, holly, and Christmas bush. Australian natives are a strong local choice, but Leonie says more customers are embracing soft, natural tones with dried textures and golden highlights for a relaxed, coastal look.
Preparation for the rush begins mid-year, from ordering stock to designing festive concepts. By December, it’s full steam ahead. Long days spent conditioning flowers, creating arrangements, and wrapping gifts.
One of her favourite moments is watching customers at the stem bar, carefully selecting each bloom to build their own bouquet — “like wandering through a garden,” she says.
For anyone choosing a floral gift, Leonie suggests a soft, elegant arrangement suits most, but bold types might love something vibrant and festive. And if you’re unsure, the team is always happy to guide you.
To keep blooms fresh through the holidays, Leonie recommends starting with a clean vase, trimming stems, and refreshing water regularly. Keep flowers away from fruit as ethylene gas causes them to wilt faster. With a little care, your Christmas arrangement will stay radiant all season long.
0493 802 831 | house-of-flowers.com.au
