3 Ways We Run a More Sustainable Floral Business in Nashville

As floral designers in Nashville, we’re committed to running a more sustainable floral business. To most people, it comes as a big surprise that floristry is oftentimes incredibly harmful to the environment and in turn, people and animals. Shortly after we started Frances and Jane Floral Design, we learned the truth about floral foam and began implementing three practices that have made a big difference in our approach to floral design.

We Always Avoid Floral Foam

The first thing we did when we began our journey toward a more sustainable floral business was totally cut out floral foam from our designs. While this was a bit of a learning curve (floral foam has been the norm for many decades), we discovered inspiring creators like Alyssa Lyttle and Lily Holmes who have helped set the bar for creative, sustainable design mechanics. Their work is amazing, and really encouraged us that any design can be done without foam!

The reason people use foam in the first place is because it truly is convenient. It can hold up to 2 liters of water, can be cut to any shape, makes designing quicker, prevents water from spilling, and is relatively inexpensive.

With that said, making the switch to more sustainable mechanics was a no-brainer after learning more about all of the cons. So, why is floral foam bad? Here’s a quick rundown:

• One block of foam is equivalent to 10 plastic bags
• Contains formaldehyde, phenol, barium sulfates, and carbon black
• Contaminates our water and soil
• Harmful to wildlife
• Single-use
• Takes hundreds of years to break down
• Can release toxic chemicals into the environment
• Possible exposure to toxic chemicals
• Adds to micro-plastic pollution

After practicing with reusable mechanics, we never looked back and are proud of the floral designs we’ve created sans foam– from small compotes to impactful ceremony features.

We Implement Reusable Mechanics 

Instead of floral foam, we implement reusable mechanics like chicken wire, water picks, flower frogs (kenzans), and reusable vessels. These materials make all of our floral designs possible, and while they may take a little more time and creativity, they’re well worth the positive impact they have on our local ecosystem!

We Compost All Flowers and Greenery Afterward

Once your reception has ended, we will arrive at the venue to gather up all the blooms and greenery. We then remove them from their vessels, water picks, and chicken wire, and gather them up for composting. By returning organic matter to the soil, we’re closing the loop and keeping them out of the landfill. It’s a small act with big benefits for our local ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

From saying goodbye to floral foam or opting for reusable materials, each decision we make is guided by our commitment to working more sustainably. Small changes have a big impact, and we’re excited to practice even more earth and people-friendly floristry in the future.

Know that when you choose Frances and Jane Floral Design, you’re not just getting beautiful garden-inspired floral designs. You’re supporting a safer, more sustainable way of doing floral design. If you resonate with this, inquire about your wedding date!