INTERVIEW WITH FLORIST JANE PACKER

Having collaborated with acclaimed florist Jane packer for our beautiful Oasis Westfield window display Oasis caught up with Jane to get an insight in to the woman at the forefront of British floristry…

Was floristry something you’ve always wanted to do?

Yes. I started working in a very small flower shop at the age of 15 as a Saturday girl – from day 1, I loved it!

What is your advice to a budding florist?

Do train and learn your trade at a good store. Alternatively, there are some great horticultural colleges that run great courses. There’s also my own school that has been running for over 18 years and has taught many of today’s well known florists.

What is your best-selling flower?

Without doubt it is the rose. Available in so many colours, petal shapes and sizes.

What is the strangest thing you have ever been asked to create?

There have been many strange things over the years. I think the most, which was for a celebrity client was a pair of lips. I’m sure there was a private joke in there somewhere?

When did you set up your own flower school – and can anyone join?

In 1990 we opened the JP School, quickly following by a school in Japan. We now have schools in NY and Korea. Anyone can enrol in a class that lasts anything from ½ a day to 4 weeks

Do you think flowers inspire new fashion trends – or visa versa?

I’ve always felt flowers are linked to fashion. Not only colour trends, but shape and form. Beading has been a trend that has crossed both trends.

Which flower is most used in fashion?

It varies from season to season; the Dhalia has played a key part, so too has the Alium – both are unusual in their form.

If a flower were a couture gown – what flower would it be?

An Alium with its sphere of shoots like a brilliant crystal or a peony with its layer upon layer of chiffon like petals.

Which flowers do you grow in your own garden?

Wild poppies, roses, Jasmine and Peonies

Tell us about your collaboration with Oasis…

I was very excited to collaborate with oasis. I have always admired their approach to creativity – great clothes at affordable prices. They are always spot on with trends and what’s more, are exciting to work with!

Your chance to WIN an exclusive bouquet of flowers from Jane Packer Delivered:

To celebrate our collaboration, 'Jane Packer Delivered' is offering you the chance to win one of three Unique Pink Bouquets, overflowing with the most exquisite cerise Lilies which open slowly to release their incredible fragrance. Each bouquet comes beautifully presented in Jane's signature wrap, ribbon and gift box.