Flowering for Charity
But must it be all give?
Last week, a subscriber asked me to write about Australian native flowers. Natives are a favourite of mine, so, I thought I’d share an annual charity event for the Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO) that I flower for, where I primarily use native blooms. I’ll take you through the stunning details of this iconic event, exactly what I create, and how I turned it into a win-win situation.
But first, Happy Valentine’s Day! If you're not a florist or flower grower, today is second only to Mother’s Day in terms of absolute madness. This year, however, I chose to sit it out. As a small home-studio florist, my focus has shifted toward intimate, bespoke events rather than the high-volume rush. There are plenty of reasons for this, perhaps a topic for a future post! Much admiration to my flower friends who have been working non-stop to create stunning Valentine’s bouquets.
It’s been a big week of writing for me. One of my proudest moments was securing a feature in an international floral art and fashion magazine (which I can’t wait to share when it’s out!). I also wrote two articles for Flowers Magazine Australia, including a Q&A with one of the industry’s most inspiring floral design educators, Susan McLeary (aka Passionflower Sue). Meeting her in person last month in Mexico was surreal—I was totally starstruck. She’ll be in Melbourne for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show in March, so if you get the chance, go see her!
On a less glamorous note, I’ve also been working on a submission against a large commercial building project planned uncomfortably close to home. So, between that and lingering paint fumes from house painting, my week has been… full.
Flowering – A Verb
For the third year in a row, I’ve had the privilege of flowering for a magical private event supporting a passion project of the Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO). This special evening under the stars is hosted by a foundation to raise funds for music education in schools. The money provides instruments, lessons and live in-school ACO performances for students who wouldn’t otherwise have access. As someone who nurtured a love of music in my own children from an early age through high school, I deeply believe in this cause and the benefits to developing minds.
The first year, I provided my floral services completely free, vase hire, pickup, and delivery included, only charging for the wholesale cost of flowers. In return, my daughter and I received two tickets to the event, which we gratefully accepted and enjoyed. My business name was displayed on the event screen alongside other generous vendors. However, I never gained any business from it.
The following year, I was invited back. Did I want to work pro bono again? I believed in the cause and wanted to contribute, but I also needed to balance my time and expenses. So, with a bit of cheek, I requested a small fee ($400) to cover my time, in addition to the wholesale cost of flowers, no tickets this time. The hosts agreed without hesitation. I believe that was because I had built a relationship with them, understood the brief, knew the home, and could deliver exactly what they needed. The third year I put the flower cost estimate up 10% to cover the increasing cost of flowers. The hosts graciously agreed.
Was it uncharitable of me to ask for payment? I wrestled with that question. While I hoped to eventually gain some orders from the event, there was no guarantee. I wanted to support the charity, but I also didn’t want to feel resentful about giving away my work for free for a second and perhaps further times, especially when it meant potentially missing out on other paying jobs. In the end, I felt it was a fair balance, working at a much-reduced fee, but still contributing to a cause I genuinely support while ensuring my time and expertise were valued.
A Starry Night Event
The event takes place in the spacious backyard of a casually cool relaxed home in an affluent coastal suburb of Perth. The vibe is always spot-on, thanks to the Fremantle Doctor—a refreshing afternoon breeze from the Indian Ocean that cools down the day’s heat.
It’s a special springtime performance under the stars, with around 350 paying guests enjoying this exclusive evening. The dress code is effortlessly stylish—shorts, sandals, and breezy, flowy frocks.
As the sun sets, drinks flow, and guests enjoy delicious Italian food while the golden hues of the sunset fades into a blanket of twinkling stars. The ACO plays a handpicked selection of pieces they’ve mastered throughout the year, often throwing in a surprise guest and a joke or two. If you’re lucky, you might nab a bean bag on the in-ground trampoline—though balancing your bevvy (Aussie for beverage) and plate of food while navigating the bounce is a skill in itself!
A large screen is set up behind the imported stage, and 300 folding chairs are arranged on the lawn. Many guests return year after year—it’s just that good. Drinks are served on the large front lawn, then guests are guided to the backyard where the stage is setup. And for the men, there’s even an old original iconic outdoor dunny, which I like to brighten up with a few flowers—just for a little extra charm.
The Floral Brief
Each year, the floral brief remains consistent:
1 large statement arrangement for a side table (front-facing)
2 medium arrangements all round for a side table and serving area
1 small coffee table vase for the outdoor lounge
5 bud vases, including one for the men’s outdoor dunny
Macrocarpa and banksia, a quirky combo (Credit: The Flower Scout)
I have complete creative freedom over the floral selections—something I absolutely love! The host lends me her stunning chromed-finish Georg Jensen vases, jugs, and even an ice bucket, which pair beautifully with my ceramic vessels for a seamless, stylish look.
The vases are placed throughout the home in key locations to gain maximum exposure, and in the bathrooms. Since the event is held in November, I typically lean toward Australian native flowers for their seasonal availability and striking aesthetic. I prefer a minimal yet sculptural style, focusing on individual floral forms rather than an overly mixed arrangement. I like a little quirkiness and to just go with the shapes that the flowers or stems present, to evoke curiosity.
My ACO Flower Recipe
For last year’s event, I used:
Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos) - Green and black varieties, adding unique texture and depth.
Banksia (Ashbyi, Baxteri, Speciosa, and Burdettii varieties) - For bold focal points.
Woolly Bush (Adenanthos) - Soft, feathery foliage for volume and whimsy.
Rice Flower (Ozothamnus diosmifolius) - Delicate filler, adding contrast.
Blushing Bride (Serruria florida) - Soft pink accents, perfect for bud vases.
Hakea Nuts & Cork Elm Branches - Sculptural dried elements for texture.
Artichokes - (although not a native) For their quirky shape, large size, and bold green colour.
What I like to call - Team 2024 (Credit: The Flower Scout) In previous years, I’ve also used steel grass, verticordia, seeded eucalyptus, acacia zigzag, tea tree, strawflowers, macrocarpa, flannel flowers, proteas, bracken, magnolia, and pin cushions, adding a few South African blooms for contrast.
Coffee table vase with pin cushions, Kangaroo Paws and bent steel grass (Credit: The Flower Scout)
Giving Back Through Floristry
I’ve always enjoyed volunteering, and have committed long term, whether it’s picking up rubbish with my family for Cleanup Australia or sorting books for Save the Children. Running a floristry business gives me another way to give back, helping charities raise funds through my craft.
To continue doing so, I also need to ensure my business remains sustainable. Floristry isn’t the most lucrative industry, but we florists are passionate about what we do and committed to creating beauty. Finding a balance between running a small business and supporting charitable causes is key. Contributing through floristry is incredibly rewarding, and I hope to keep supporting this event for years to come.
What About You?
Do you donate your time or talents to a cause close to your heart? Should I have asked for a small payment for my work? I’d love to here your comments.
For those of you not on substack, you’re also able to like this article (if you ‘like’ it that is) by pressing on the heart button, just like IG.
This was such a beautifully written and engaging read—I could almost feel the Fremantle Doctor breeze and hear the ACO under the stars! Your balance of artistry, generosity, and business acumen is truly inspiring, and you absolutely made the right call in valuing your work while supporting a great cause. 🌿✨👏
You were right to charge. The article is beautiful and the flowers are lovely in the designs you made. It sounds like a beautiful event. I have never been to WA and it has such a mystique. It sounds like a very beautiful place. One day I will go and see the wildflowers.