Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1532637
ABOUT JORGE TERAN Jorge Teran is the proud owner of Flowers by Terranova, a Dallas-based company that's brought happiness to customers for over a decade. Skilled in creating memorable experiences, Jorge believes flowers can brighten any occasion, whether a birthday, anniversary, or simple gesture of love. Making the arrangement-buying process as beautiful as the blooms themselves, Jorge can be reached in his shop or at www.flowersbyterranova.com. 1. What inspired you to begin working with flowers? My parents grew and harvested produce on our land, so I've always enjoyed gardening, even as a child. After we moved to the U.S., I began making and selling silk florals. It allowed me to create long-lasting arrangements and was a perfect way to infuse beauty into homes. People often complimented my creative eye, encouraging me to turn it into a trade. As my business grew, I saw a shift in demand for fresh, sustainable flowers, prompting me to transition to real blooms. My background in gardening made the move natural, and I began sourcing from local growers to make seasonal arrangements. This let me combine my enthusiasm for design with a business that celebrates nature's style. 2. What do you love most about being a florist? My work brings smiles to people's faces. Even during the most difficult times, like when people say their final goodbyes, I find fulfillment in constructing floral pieces that offer comfort and help honor those moments. Flowers have a quiet way of expressing emotion, and it's rewarding to know that my work can provide a sense of peace and connection when needed most. 3. Where do you source your flowers, and what's their journey from farm to shop? I source my flowers from around the world. My lilies, gerberas, eucalyptus, and carnations come from Mexico, where the climate and soil are great for producing bold, lasting florals. Peonies and tulips are shipped from Holland, known for its world-class flower production. I also order branches from Oregon and ranunculus from Chile, where the growing conditions enable delicate petals to flourish. Each flower follows a meticulously managed journey, whether by air, land, or sea, to guarantee vitality and quality before it reaches my shop. To maintain freshness, they're carefully packed in temperature-controlled environments, typically with moisture-retaining packaging, so they arrive in peak condition. 4. How do you approach designing floral arrangements for different occasions? I begin by understanding the specific factors influencing the overall design. For corporate events, I assess the venue, considering elements such as color palette, furniture, and existing décor. This helps me fashion arrangements that complement the environment. Sometimes a corporate client will already have a set theme or color scheme, and I work within those parameters so the florals align with the vision for the event. For intimate occasions, like romantic dinners, proposals, or anniversaries, I build arrangements that evoke personal meaning. I often incorporate unique flowers or colors significant to the clients, themes that'll take them back to that special moment. The design is usually more understated for a dinner—nothing too large or overpowering—but sophisticated enough to elevate the scene and make an impression. 5. What are your tips for keeping flower arrangements fresh? Nourish your flowers with clean water; it ensures longevity. Change the water once every three days to keep petals vibrant for as long as possible. Cut the stems at a sharp angle with a floral knife for better water absorption, and remove dying flowers and fallen leaves. The ethylene gas emitted by wilting flowers can shorten the lifespan of your bouquet. Lastly, avoid placing your arrangement in direct heat from windows or fans during warmer months. 6. Which flowers bloom best during each of the four seasons? Spring brings vivid blooms like tulips, peonies, and blossoming branches, which add colorful energy to any arrangement. As we transition into summer, sunflowers and roses steal the show with bright hues and timelessness. Marigolds and seasonal branches in the fall boast warm, earthy tones that capture autumn's essence. Amaryllis, red Ilex berries, and pine greenery showcase winter's beauty and cultivate a festive, cozy atmosphere, ideal for the colder months. Each season has its own distinct floral palette, allowing for a variety of textures and colors all year. 7. How can beginners create their own stunning bouquets? Start by choosing in-season florals with healthy, sturdy petals. Aim for a mix of three to four types of blooms with varying sizes, colors, and textures, using greenery or filler flowers for depth. Next, select a vase that suits the arrangement's size and shape—narrow vases for tall flowers and wider containers for full-bodied blossoms. Prep the stems by removing damaged petals, thorns, and leaves below the waterline, then trim them at an angle. Fill the vase three-quarters with water and add flower food. Begin arranging by placing the largest flowers first, then layer in smaller blooms. Rotate the vase as you go to create balance and even spacing. Finish by filling in gaps with greenery or branches. My most essential tip: enjoy the process, and let the flowers' natural elegance inspire your creativity! COMING HOME MAGAZINE 7