Kelly Ekardt – Frankfurt Floral Artist & Stylist
From the world of high fashion to the art of floral design, Kelly Ekardt has carved a unique path in
The Rose Studios Instagram account is the perfect inspiration point for flower and car lovers alike – we were instantly drawn to the combination of nostalgic photos and delicate bouquets posted all over their feed.
Known for creating breathtaking floral designs, they take creativity a step further by incorporating vintage cars into their photoshoots. Featured in reels and photos, Toyota and Ford cars draped in lush blooms blend the timeless beauty of florals with the charm of antique vehicles. This interview is the perfect read if you’re into editorial-style pics and stunning commercial installations.
Take some notes on how Emily was able to grow Rose Studios from a love of floral art into a real-life vision.
I was introduced to the world of flowers at 19, when I first started working in floristry. My passion for flowers and design quickly grew, and by 22, I had founded my own business, Rose Studios. The journey began with a deep love for floral art and a desire to create something beautiful out of every bloom.
My love for vintage and oldschool Japanese cars, especially my prized 1980 Toyota Corona, has played a significant role in shaping the identity of Rose Studios. This passion for classic cars has been a driving force behind many of our creative shoots. The idea to incorporate my Toyota Corona into floral photography emerged organically.
From the very beginning of Rose Studios, the car became more than just a personal favorite —it became a central element of our brand’s story. Its classic lines and timeless appeal provide a unique and striking backdrop for our floral arrangements, blending the elegance of flowers with the nostalgic charm of vintage cars.
Over time, the Toyota Corona has become an integral part of our branding. It’s not just a vehicle but a visual representation of the aesthetic of Rose Studios. What’s truly wonderful is how this fusion of interests has resonated with our audience. The car has attracted customers who share the same enthusiasm, creating a unique connection and community around our brand. Incorporating the car into our shoots allows us to create visually captivating content that stands out.
It’s a playful yet sophisticated way to showcase our floral designs, and it bridges my two passions in a way that feels authentic and engaging. The result is a series of stunning images that not only highlight our flowers but also celebrate the classic beauty of vintage cars, creating a distinctive and memorable visual identity for Rose Studios.
Working with flowers is incredibly fulfilling because it combines artistry with nature. I find it deeply inspiring because they are a perishable medium, which adds a unique layer of creativity and urgency to the art form. Unlike more permanent materials, flowers have a limited lifespan, which challenges me to create beauty that is both fleeting and impactful. This transient quality encourages innovation and improvisation, pushing me to think outside the box and make the most of every bloom.
One piece of advice that has stayed with me is that the best florists can make something out of nothing. This concept is particularly true when working with offcuts and leftover materials. It pushes creativity and helps me see new possibilities in what might otherwise be discarded.
The inspiration to turn my passion into a business came from a desire to share my love for floral design with a wider audience. I’ve always had a very “just do it” attitude with work and tend to do things without overthinking it too much, so this translated well from the start. Although I will say I went into it knowing absolutely nothing about business / accounting and that realm of it.
Starting Rose Studios was a way to bring my vision to life and make a meaningful impact through my work. I’ve had lots of learning curves along the way but I think its important to go through hard comings in business so you know how and where you can improve.
Working with big name brands has presented several challenges, each of which has been an opportunity for growth and development. One of the major hurdles has been meeting the high expectations and tight deadlines associated with large-scale projects. These high-profile collaborations require meticulous planning and flawless execution, often under intense pressure.
Additionally, navigating the logistics of working with such brands involves coordinating with various stakeholders, managing larger budgets, and ensuring that every detail aligns with the brand’s vision and standards. This can be demanding but has significantly sharpened my organisational and problem-solving skills.
Another challenge has been maintaining creativity and originality while adhering to the brand’s guidelines and constraints. It’s essential to balance the brand’s identity with my own artistic vision, ensuring that each arrangement is both innovative and aligned with the brand’s message.
Through these experiences, I’ve developed resilience, enhanced my ability to manage complex projects, and gained confidence in my ability to handle high-stakes situations. The rewards, such as seeing our work featured at prestigious events and receiving positive feedback, make overcoming these challenges incredibly worthwhile.
In general looping back into the previous answer is merely just seeing our work featured in high-profile events like the Australian Open and Grand Prix. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our floral designs making a significant impact on such a large stage. To also be involved in events that we love to attend is also extremely fulfilling.
I find inspiration from a variety of sources, including both traditional and contemporary floral artists. I’m inspired by those who blend classic techniques with innovative ideas, constantly pushing the envelope in floral design. Its funny though because a lot of floral artists who I LOVE have such a different aesthetic to me, the below floral artists are probably some of my favourites though.
My advice would be to deeply engage with both the technical and creative aspects of floral design. Regular practice and experimentation with various styles will help you develop your unique artistic voice. Don’t shy away from thinking outside the box and pushing the boundaries of traditional design.
Building a strong network within the floral community is also crucial, as it can offer valuable support, insights, and opportunities. While it’s important to hone and showcase your personal style, flexibility is equally vital. You’ll encounter a diverse range of client requests, some of which may not align with your usual aesthetic. Being able to adapt to different styles and preferences can broaden your business opportunities and enhance your versatility as a designer. Consider what type of business you want to build and be open to both traditional and innovative projects, as this will help you cater to a wider audience and keep your work dynamic.
One of my tips is to always condition your flowers properly before arranging them. This ensures they stay fresh and vibrant longer. Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of experimenting with offcuts and leftover materials—they can lead to some of your most innovative designs.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue innovating in floral design, exploring new collaborations, and expanding Rose Studios. There are always new creative challenges and opportunities to explore, and I’m eager to see where the future takes us in the world of flowers. We have some super exciting jobs coming up but I’m not to say anything yet. Keep an eye on our socials !!
Did you love this interview? Read more Flower Stories with inspiring florists on the blog here:
From the world of high fashion to the art of floral design, Kelly Ekardt has carved a unique path in
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