Festive wreath bouquet

A special ceramic vase with a floral collar forms the inspiration for this wreath bouquet. The base of the flower wreath is a structure of Ammi branches (bishop's flower) sprayed in rosé gold color. These special flower umbels are supplemented with fresh green Cedrus branches. Carnations and Phalaenopsis flowers are incorporated into the structure in water tubes. The cream, salmon and pink shades respond to the shape and color of the vase and the Ammi branches.

Sparkling stars

A star is made of sturdy black pokers. A double sturdy poker is attached to a wooden base to which the star is attached. The metal base is then wrapped with winding wire and then with copper-colored bullion wire. Pinus needles are clamped in between. Dried fruits emphasize the shape of the star. Star-shaped glossy flowers give a floral touch.

Sparkling winter greenery

On a sturdy metal circle, evergreen – Pinus and Abies procera (nobilis) branches – are attached with binding wire. The green is supplemented with pine cones and gold-colored beech leaves, which are also attached to the wreath with binding wire. Greenery is mainly used at the top, while at the base, the wreath gains strength and volume due to the generous placement of large, beautiful pine cones. LED lights provide a festive sparkle.

'Anything that exudes warmth and coziness'

In September, Chantal Post won gold at the Belgian Championships. ‘It was quite a tough competition. As an assistant to Stefan van Berlo, I had already participated in the European Championships in Poland, which in terms of style is really comparable to the Belgian Championships: challenging, exciting and full of positive stress.’

'The best thing about such a competition is the entire creative process - from the creation of the idea to the complete elaboration. I have learned a lot from my own experiments and from the coaching I have enjoyed in preparation. Exchanging ideas and experiences with internationally renowned florists is incredibly enriching, giving you a new and broader vision of the flower world. A chance to enrich my own style, develop myself further and delve even deeper into floral design - which now gives me even more passion for my profession!'

‘Christmas means time for the family. It is cold and dark outside, and then it is important to bring warmth and cosiness into the house. Christmas is also a time of traditions – which have only become more important after Covid. Red and green are more 'in' than ever. And also gold, copper and natural materials:
Everything that radiates warmth and cosiness.’

'A little exoticism should not be missing'

In September, Sören Van Laer won the inaugural Belgian Championship, entitling him to be called First Florist of Belgium. ‘It is a great honor to be the first to bear the title of First Florist of Belgium. This title is a true recognition of our profession as a florist. To be a good florist, you must not only master the floral techniques, you must also be creative, well-organized, and possess business acumen.
Together with my partner Aymeric Chaouche and supported by the team, we have worked hard to achieve this title. I am proud of my team. Together, we will continue to promote Belgium on the map in terms of floral art.’

In the run-up to Christmas, Atelier Sören Van Laer
steadfastly organizes a Christmas Open Door. 'Celebrating and festive decorating is in our DNA. We love purely natural materials such as pine branches, pine cones, pine needles, and berries. Classic shapes such as wreaths and stars belong to the Christmas tradition, but I also like to experiment with other shapes. Glitter and lights add a festive character to these creations. A little exoticism should not be missing either. Special
orchids or other exotic flowers and materials provide this.’

Luxury in harmony with nature

In the theme of 'Luxury in harmony with nature', connectedness with nature plays a leading role. The arrangers have often opted for traditional techniques and natural materials. The look is one of grandeur and exclusivity; festive yet understated, serene yet cozy and warm.