Lucy Houghton - aka Lu Diamond Flowers - is busily ordering lisianthus for what she expects will be a frantic day in her floral studio (a converted garage below her Ponsonby home) come Valentine's Day.
The self-confessed travel addict, who studied photography before launching into the floral business last year, is inspired by her many journeys as well as by the texture and colours of flowers, and photographers Patti Smith and Ogawa Kazuma.
"I have a pretty rad house and I feel very lucky to be able to fill it with all my memories. I love to travel and it's often the only time I really make purchases that are special to me," she says of some of her favourite pieces.
Her fashion-forward bouquets have been popping up at store openings, magazine shoots and events, as well as online, where she contributes to Ruby's blog among others. Then there are the weddings, parties and, of course, occasions such as Valentine's Day, which keep her busy. To order a bunch, see ludiamondflowers.com.
