‘We must fully ‘seize’ this time’

Florist Alex Aalders owns a flower shop in Assen. ‘I grew up with a father who was in the ‘gardens,’ so flowers came my way early on. In terms of inspiration, I mainly get a lot from creative colleagues, I like to visit trade events, and look at trade magazines, but also architecture, fashion and vacations bring inspiration. A frequently heard comment is that there are arrangements in trade magazines that are too large and too expensive – but I always think, you have to get the inspiration from it, not want to copy them.’

‘Due to circumstances, Christmas privately doesn't mean that much to me. But, for the store, it is of course a super nice creative and especially colorful time. We must fully ‘seize’ this time – but on Christmas Eve I will cocoon again.’

'It is difficult to say which trends are emerging, actually sustainability should be a trend, but yes, these days you sell a lot of wax amaryllis and colored branches. I myself find Simplicity a beautiful trend - simple in terms of layout and color, on the other hand I can also appreciate something super colorful.'

'The flower profession remains one big voyage of discovery'

What passion for the profession, what youthful enthusiasm. Esther Weijenberg, at the age of 25, has already built up an impressive resume. And continues to make her mark, with surprising arrangements and challenging competitions. Including the title of Dutch Champion Floristry for Juniors and soon the participation in the European Championship. Holland's glory.