Sydney flower markets
One of the things I love to do is a florist is go to the Sydney flower markets at Flemington. Its an early morning start from Newcastle, but you only share the M1 freeway with trucks and a few other vehicles at 3.00 am so coffee in hand, tunes loud its a clear run! But you are rewarded once you get there that’s when the fun begins! The markets are open 5-11am Monday to Saturday, It’s Australia’s largest flower market for fresh cut flowers, it accounts for approximately 75% of the wholesale cut flower trade in NSW. You must get there early to ensure you get a park as the car park fills quickly!
Its still dark when you arrive and waiting in the carpark with your list in hand its the calm before the storm! the doors rise and the market hits you like a strong cup off coffee, boom light, flowers, people, growers, buckets, colour, smell, LIFE! So many stands and things to see and buy but- must stay to budget! Its great to see familiar faces of florists and growers in this fast paced, crazy community! and seeing the seasons change and flowers come and go, one favourite may finish but there is sure to be something just as magnificent freshly being cut and ready to stocked.
I have a different shopping strategy depending on the day I go and what I need to purchase but my essential tips would be
- wear good shoes, sneakers or boots are a must, the ground is wet and slippery, there are plenty of trolleys and hard workers moving heavy boxes and buckets watch your feet and where you are going!
- look around walk around and check out everyones produce, hidden treasures are everywhere!
- have a list, this can be broken down to flowers needs, foliage and sundries
- inspect and choose quality
- chat to the growers
- have fun!
The lists are endless of what you can purchase flowers, foliage, potted plants, cactus, florist sundries, vases, ribbons and importantly a well earned strong, delicious cup of coffee. I love getting back to my van bursting with hand-gathered precious blooms, coffee in hand knowing i’ll have happy clients and brides and stock to fill the studio. The sun is up fun is over till next market run, avoiding the trolleys, forklifts, vans again on the way out I’m off! back to Newcastle to create some stunning floral designs.
