April and Fritz

Is there such a thing as a sustainable florist featuring special guest Rita from the Sustainable Floristry Network

I had the pleasure of speaking with Rita, founder of the Sustainable Floristry Network (SFN) and the No Floral Foam Movement. As a second-generation florist and science writer, Rita shares her insights on the disconnect between the floral industry and sustainability, and how SFN aims to address these challenges. As a member of the SFN, I’m proud to support sustainable practices at April and Fritz, and we discuss how florists can reduce their environmental impact by eliminating floral foam, avoiding single-use plastics, and prioritising local blooms. Join us as we dive into the complexities of creating a sustainable floral business and how we can move the industry toward a more eco-friendly future. What we cover in this episode: * How the wasteful nature of floral foam prompted Rita to explore sustainable floristry, launch SFN and begin the No Floral Foam Movement. * Why sustainability matters in all industries, not just floristry, and why you should care about it as a consumer using florals in an event. * Whether a sustainable florist actually exists and what responsibilities lay with the consumer versus the florist or event vendor. * If you need to sacrifice aesthetics in your floral design in the name of being sustainable. Let’s make your events truly special, one conversation at a time. --- Visit Sustainable Floristry Network’s website: https://www.sustainablefloristry.org/ [https://www.sustainablefloristry.org/]  Connect with SFN on Instagram: @sustainablefloristry [https://www.instagram.com/sustainablefloristry/] --- Enquire for your next event here [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/contact]. Connect with Bree on Instagram: @aprilandfritz [https://www.instagram.com/aprilandfritz] Check out our website: https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/ [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/]  Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes!

Never settle for small when your business dreams are big

Today's episode is directed at business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone working in a physical space that engages with clients or customers. I'll be touching on what it takes to stand out from the crowd and how to incorporate different elements into your physical business to reach your next level. The reality is: Every moment there are new people coming into your field and challenging you, your clients, your everything. In my view, you need to be noticeable to skyrocket your reputation and attract new clients. With the corporate events that we participate in, what we do is create brand experiences. Some might think they're just flowers but I truly do believe that floral design can offer so much to a space, a business and your brand. What we cover in this episode: * How my previous experience working at one of the most renowned global technology companies influenced my understanding of strong brand identity. * The importance of standing out in business and being memorable through thoughtful design and presentation. * A real-life example of how my client uses high-impact floral installations in their space to stand out in their industry and leave a lasting impression on their own clients. * Why you should prioritise standing out to your dream clients to increase brand loyalty, word-of-mouth referrals and ultimately, business growth.  Let’s make your events truly special, one conversation at a time. --- Enquire for your next event here [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/contact]. Connect with Bree on Instagram: @aprilandfritz [https://www.instagram.com/aprilandfritz] Check out our website: https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/ [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/]  Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes!

"I have never met a florist like you"

From early morning setups to the final touches on the big day, I spend this episode reflecting on the dedication and personalised service that sets April & Fritz apart in the floral industry. This has been inspired by an experience that I had at a client’s wedding recently. I got speaking to this fabulous woman who introduced herself as one of the MCs for the night, who was also related to the couple. After I explained that I was the florist and spoke about everything that I had done for the couple, she said “I have never met a florist like you”. And in that moment, I was really surprised, and it led me down a path of really digging into why she may have complimented me and my service in this way. I wanted to share my insights with you.  What we cover in this episode: * Building meaningful connections with clients and the joy of going above and beyond to make their special day truly memorable. * The journey that I take with a couple, from the initial inquiry to the final wedding day setup, and why I think this approach stands out in the industry. * The value of building relationships with my clients beyond just the flowers. * Why I am so dedicated to ensuring every detail is perfect on the wedding day, even beyond my floral duties. Let’s make your events truly special, one conversation at a time. --- Enquire for your next event here [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/contact]. Connect with Bree on Instagram: @aprilandfritz [https://www.instagram.com/aprilandfritz] Check out our website: https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/ [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/]  Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes!

The event planning pep talk you didn't know you needed

I felt called to do something a little bit different today and step back from my usual structured approach to the podcast. I want to have an honest and heartfelt riff about the challenges of event planning, because it can sometimes feel really, really hard. Event planning requires you to put the building blocks down and lay the foundation for your perfect event with countless decisions and details to be considered along the way. And like anything, not all things go to plan and obstacles can be completely out of your control. So I wanted to share my take on this important topic and share some suggestions on how to best get back on your feet when you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by it all. What we cover in this episode: * The inherent imperfections and challenges that come along with event planning. * Tips for ways to navigate feelings of overwhelm when it comes to the many decisions you need to make for your event. * Leaning on your vendors for support during the hard times and the importance of asking them for help. * The power of resilience and creativity in event planning and a reminder to focus on the primary goal of your event instead of perfection. Let’s make your events truly special, one conversation at a time. --- Enquire for your next event here [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/contact]. Connect with Bree on Instagram: @aprilandfritz [https://www.instagram.com/aprilandfritz] Check out our website: https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/ [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/]  Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes!

The power of professional training with Myhanh from Melbourne Polytechnic

In contrast to last week’s topic, in this episode we’re talking to floristry Myhanh, the lead floristry teacher at Melbourne Polytechnic and one of my own mentors during my time studying a Certificate III in Floristry, about formal floristry qualifications. With years of expertise as a florist, business owner, and educator, Myhanh reveals how professional training translates into flawless execution, creative confidence, and peace of mind for your big event. We’ll discuss how to spot the difference between a well-trained florist and why that matters when bringing your vision to life and so much more. If you’re planning an event and want to ensure every floral detail is perfect, this episode is a must-listen. What we cover in this episode: * Myhanh’s insights on the importance of professional training and how this translates into peace of mind for clients by knowing that the person creating the florals for your event is well-equipped to bring your vision to life. * Learn why hiring a professionally trained florist means you’re choosing someone who’s mastered their craft through structured learning, rigorous training, and industry standards - so you can trust that your event’s florals will exceed expectations. * Why continuous learning, training and mentoring after a florist's formal education means that your chosen florist isn’t just "winging it" but has taken the next step to hone their craft. * Myhanh shares her red flags to empower you to make informed decisions, helping them avoid vendors who may not deliver the quality or service you expect.  Let’s make your events truly special, one conversation at a time. --- Check out the Certificate III in Floristry with Melbourne Polytechnic here [https://www.melbournepolytechnic.edu.au/study/certificate-iii/floristry/non-apprenticeship/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwwae1BhC_ARIsAK4Jfrx1XuImBgOLw1PMCNaiNHt7suZhiwUNy60ETmNJ1tXkBJRSNKHDf78aAruSEALw_wcB]. --- Enquire for your next event here [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/contact]. Connect with Bree on Instagram: @aprilandfritz [https://www.instagram.com/aprilandfritz] Check out our website: https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/ [https://www.aprilandfritz.com.au/]  Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes!