The Evolution of Floristry: From Ancient Rituals to Parisian Boutiques

Ketevani Kovzikashvili
ფლორისტიკის ევოლუცია: ანტიკური რიტუალებიდან პარიზულ ბუტიკებამდე

Floristry is a synthesis of science and art that has undergone an interesting transformation over the millennia.

Today, on the Fleur de Tbilisi blog, I'll tell you how flower care and arrangement has become one of the most sophisticated professions in the world.

Symbolism and academic foundations

Flowers have always existed in human culture, albeit with different meanings. In ancient Greece and Rome, they were used in the form of crowns and garlands, which were symbols of power and divinity.
The real academic breakthrough occurred in 17th-century Holland.

The works of Dutch artists laid the foundation for the rules of composition. It was on their canvases that the principles of color balance, mass, form, and the "golden ratio" first appeared, which are used by all professional florists today.

The first flower shops and the Parisian revolution

Floristry, as an independent business and profession, emerged in Europe at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. Before that, flowers were only sold at fairs, along with other products. However, the Industrial Revolution and urbanization created a demand for beauty and sophistication.

The first specialized flower shops opened in Paris. These were no longer just shops—they were “Flower Boutiques,” where flowers were treated like precious jewelry.


From the Victorian era to modern minimalism

At the beginning of the 20th century, floristry became more widespread. Transportation developed, which made it possible to bring exotic plants from distant lands. However, over time, excessive decoration and artificial interventions overshadowed the natural beauty of the flower itself.

Today, world floristry is returning to its roots — naturalism and eco-centric design. The modern approach we share rejects plastic packaging and excessive decor.

3 main pillars of the modern standard:
Seasonality: Respecting the rhythm of nature. Seasonal flowers are always healthier and more vibrant.
Linear purity: The emphasis is on the natural shape of the flower (Stem-focused design).
Sustainability: Professional processing techniques that ensure the viability of the flower without chemical additives.

Fleur de Tbilisi: Continuing the European Tradition
The inspiration for our brand was the Parisian boutique culture, where quality and individuality are key.
For us, floristry is not just about arranging a bouquet. It is about taking responsibility for each flower.

We use knowledge to create compositions that are:
• Stylistically balanced — where every color and shape is thoughtful.
• Visually clean — where unnecessary details do not obscure nature's creation.
• Emotionally valuable — because we believe that a properly chosen flower can convey a message better than words.

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