Born in Sweden, Sofie Paton-Smith has become a highly-successful florist, perfecting her craft through an array of projects over the years. Sofie provides bespoke sessions with couples to plan their weddings, as well as thorough 1-1 workshops to teach budding gardeners about her craft. 

With years of experience under her belt, we've chatted with Sofie to find out more about her drive and inspiration, from what got her into floristry to her favourite trends and beyond. 

What got you into gardening and floristry?

While growing up in Sweden my mother always arranged fantastic tables and made sure there were always flowers on the kitchen table. My grandmother and I grew sweet peas and morning glory in our summer house which had a large sloping garden from as early as I can remember. It was established by previous generations and had 10 kinds of apple trees alone.

What do you love most about designing floral bouquets?

I love to use an array of the flowers we grow. Local flowers often have bendy stems that add such movement and it helps to create something magical. It makes me happy. I find it therapeutic and calming. A bouquet can be given at so many different occasions. I never tire of making them.

What’s your favourite bridal floristry trend?

I personally like the artistic freedom I’m given, and I always include plenty of candles in my weddings.

What is Flowers from the Farm?

Flowers from the Farm is a 800 plus member organisation promoting and growing British flowers. From the north off Scotland to the coast of Pembrokeshire in back gardens, on farms and in 10 acre walled gardens. Find out more about Flowers from the Farm here. 

Why do you love growing flowers from seed?

I grow lots from seeds, but my favourite has become perennials. I have 8 kinds of perennial Scabiosa for example.

Did you always know you wanted to open up your own floristry?

It was a dream when I was a teenager but then my goal was medicine. That became industrial psychology and a move here made it all possible in the end.

What inspired you to start teaching the nation about floristry?

I like to give back. I love to give people a few hours of relaxing workshops where they focus on something completely different. Or teach a budding florist or a traditional florist how to create sustainable floristry.

What do you teach in the garden studio at Soil & Fleurs HQ?

Sustainable floristry. Anything from arches and urns, to wildly romantic tablescapes to bouquets to wreaths.

How can people get involved with sessions in your studio?

All our classes can be found on our website. We advertise them in our emails from our mailing list. So you book on there or send me a message. I also do guest teaching where they will advertise my class. We also talk about them on our Instagram: @soilandfleurs, and on our blog:  www.soilandfleurs.com.

Do you have any advice on festive decor that you can grow yourself? (I.e a DIY wreath or table centre pieces?)

Straw-flowers was something my mother had in baskets in the 80’s but they have made a huge come back. My favourite are the whites and peach. Fantastic in a wreath or a cloud.

Want to learn more about Sofie Paton-Smith and keep up with her work at Soil & Fluers? You can visit her website here, or follow what she's up to on her Instagram!