11 Questions with... Mannuela Konan of Florissa Designs

Since starting Florissa Designs in 2014, Mannuela Konan has taken the wedding industry by storm, creating stylish and innovative event décor and floral displays. We asked her to share how it all began, her plans for the future, plus a selection of beautifully designed blooms. 

How Did You Get Started in the Wedding Industry?

Believe it or not, I did not even know there was such a thing as floral designing or an event stylist. In fact, my dream was to work in the travel industry. 

While working with another decorator back in 2009, I completely fell in love with the whole process of taking a blank space and transforming it into something spectacular. I then decided to learn more about floristry and completed a foundation degree in Floral Design and Event Management at the University of Arts, London.

After my studies, I thought I could still work in the travel industry, but things took another turn so I finally took the plunge in 2014 and started the company. 

What Does Your Typical Working Day Involve?

I normally start prepping the flowers at least 2 days before the event date to allow them to fully open, so I can design all the floral arrangements. On the day, the team and I will meet at the venue as early as possible, to have a quick debrief on what needs to be done. 

We will go over the timeline to make sure everything is completed on time. We will then start the full set up and finish with all the small details to make sure everything is picture perfect, so our clients can enjoy the full reveal before the guests arrive. 

What Is It That You Love about Working in Weddings? 

I love when clients come to me with their vision and are happy for me to take it to the next level, by creating something completely bespoke and unique to them.

What Do You Find Most Challenging in Your Work?

The sleepless nights! To get the best out of every flower, I have to design them the day before or even on the day itself. I usually have many sleepless nights before each event, so I have to make sure I am super organised and I delegate as much as possible to get everything ready on time. 

What Did the Coronavirus Pandemic Teach You about Your Business?

The pandemic has taught me to be more flexible with my business. Nobody foresaw the extent of COVID-19 and with everything moving online, I had to learn to quickly adapt myself and do most things online. It was a bit of a challenge as the nature of our business requires face to face meetings with our clients, sites visit, products sampling etc. 

Plus, with most clients not being able to see any physical products during their consultation, it has become imperative for them to understand our offering and know exactly what they will be getting for their wedding, so the process can be less stressful. 

What's Your Advice for Someone Who Wants to Work in Your Field in the Wedding Industry?

There is so much I would like to share apart from having a passion for floristry and event designs, but I would say that they should take time to plan financially and invest in a good mentor.

There is so much more to this business than just delivering pretty flowers and styling venues. From pricing properly to all the logistics that goes on behind the scenes before each wedding. It is really important to plan ahead as this business can be very time consuming and draining. 

Finally, weddings are seasonal so being on top of your cashflow and offering more than just one service is key. 

Which Wedding Professionals Inspire You?

I really love the work of Rachel A Clingen in Canada. Her designs are absolutely gorgeous, and I love how she's always able to bring that garden feel to every wedding. 

Which Current Wedding Trend Do You Want to See More of?

I love the oversized archways and bouquets for the ceremony and bridal party, as well as how personalised weddings have become nowadays with couples incorporating fashion and interior design to their wedding décor.  

What’s Your Favourite Wedding from a Film or TV Programme?

I was in tears watching Say I Do on Netflix, even though it is a reality show, the authenticity behind most couples and their stories was really touching. 

What Is the One Wedding Tradition You Would Ditch and Why?

Having little children as rings bearers or flower girls, especially when they are toddlers. Sometimes they might not be in the mood or they are simply tired and when they do not want to walk down that aisle it can be a daunting experience. 

What’s Your Next Ambition for Your Business?

I have been wanting to provide workshops and classes for a very long time and now with the pandemic and the new normal, it will be a good opportunity to start implementing them. 

Check out more of Mannuela and the team's gorgeous floral designs and event décor on Instagram @florissadesignsevents.

Check out our directory of wedding florists for more fabulous floral planners.