“Every person is different”
According to Geertje, funeral floral arrangements are becoming increasingly personalized. In her work, she’s noticed that bereaved family members deliberately choose colors and shapes that reflect the personality of the person they’re saying goodbye to. They also look for their own way to add a final touch to the arrangement. “Think, for example, of a handwritten note. There are so many different ways to do that.”
At the same time, she believes that funeral arrangements evolve with the times. Trends in fashion and interior design are often a source of inspiration. Geertje doesn’t see any one specific flower that is used exclusively for funeral arrangements. “Every person is different, and the same goes for flowers. That’s why any flower can be used in funeral arrangements.”
It is precisely this personal touch that makes these commissions so special to her. “I always consider it a great honor to create funeral arrangements
. How wonderful is it to create something for someone that perfectly suits that person?” With her thoughtful floral arrangements, she hopes to contribute to a meaningful farewell. As she herself says, “That’s why I do it.”
Magical Express is getting an expansion with a trailer
During the recent FlowerTrials, Magical Hydrangea unveiled an expansion of its retail concept. The well-known Magical Express—a Piaggio Ape customized in the company’s branding and used for in-store displays—is now available with a specially designed trailer.
Michael Perry discovers the craftsmanship behind Decorum plants
How much work goes into producing a top-quality plant? In the latest episode of Grower for a Day, plant expert Michael Perry—better known as Mr. Plant Geek—spends a day shadowing three Decorum growers. From order processing and quality control to cultivation techniques and specialized craftsmanship, the episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at modern floriculture.
Alex Segura to be a guest lecturer at the Advanced Floral Design Course 2026 in Aalsmeer
The Boerma Institute in Aalsmeer is expanding the 2026 edition of the International Advanced Floral Design Course (ADFD) with a notable addition. Spanish floral designer and instructor Alex Segura will join the program as a guest lecturer; the course is designed for experienced florists who wish to further develop their technical and creative skills.
Horticulture Trends 2027
The Green Industry Trends 2027 are not based on color or form, but on the spirit of the times. Trend watcher Aafje Nijman sums this up in a single concept: Unravel. The world increasingly feels like a tangled web of developments—geopolitics, technology, mental pressure, and scarcity—and consumers are looking for ways to cope with them. That search translates into four distinct directions. Not just styles, but different ways to get a grip on reality.
Farewell to Chris Martens
Chris Martens stepped down as director of Smithers-Oasis Benelux on May 1 and has retired. His role has been taken over by Jeroen Swinkels, who was already serving as operations manager at the company.