Introducing: Twig and Bloom

From making flower arrangements with her three sisters on the family farm in Southland, to working as a florist in London and catering for events at Kensington Palace, flowers have taken Dee Robinson on quite a journey.

The owner of Twig and Bloom in Matakana says helping people find the perfect arrangements for the pivotal moments in their life is what she enjoys most about her job.

Dee started Twig and Bloom in February, taking over from Bloom Saloon.

“I’ve always loved working with people and working as a florist you develop a very special relationship with customers,” Dee says. “You are with them in pivotal moments in their lives. It’s a privilege to be part of that journey.”

Dee has had an affinity with floristry since her childhood.

“I was surrounded by beautiful flowers as a child. It was something my mother, aunties and grandma were passionate about and we had a huge garden. We were always encouraged to get hands-on with the flowers and I learned about using the colours, textures and shapes from a young age.”

She first formally studied floristry while living in London 20 years ago and started working for a high-end central London florist while completing work experience for her diploma. One of her first jobs was for a corporate function at Kensington Palace.

After returning from London in the mid 1990s, Dee started a florist in Red Beach, which she sold in 2006 to spend more time with her young family.

She has also been volunteering for charities, including North Shore not-for-profit A Girl Called Hope, and continued floristry part-time for weddings and events.

Now her youngest daughter is at primary school she is excited to be getting back into the industry.

“We specialise in weddings and corporate events and love to help create that something special for a great occasion, but we also enjoy creating that beautiful bouquet for everyday celebrations.”