Paula Rooney On Passion, Purpose, And The Power Of Spray Roses
Few florists move as effortlessly between romance and refinement as Paula Rooney. An internationally recognised floral designer, mentor, and multi-award-winning creative, Paula’s work is synonymous with luxury weddings, destination events, and garden-inspired designs that feel both abundant and artful. For World of Spray Roses, she shares the journey that shaped her career, her enduring love of roses, and why spray roses have become a leading lady in her designs.
From Liverpool to Luxury
Paula’s floristry journey began at 18, when she enrolled in a three-year course in Liverpool. Those early years laid strong foundations, shaping her technical skill, creativity, and respect for the craft before she went on to gain hands-on experience in traditional flower shops.
At 24, her career took an unexpected turn when she joined the iconic QE2, travelling the world and working within an environment defined by elegance, precision, and exceptional standards. Life on board refined her understanding of luxury not just as an aesthetic, but as an experience built on detail, discretion, and service.
That perspective now underpins her work with leading brands, luxury hotels, and ultra-high-net-worth private clients worldwide. Continually investing in her own growth through mindset and business coaching, Paula has built an international, multi-award-winning brand celebrated for its confident, distinctive approach to luxury floristry. Known for her calm, solutions-first approach, she believes that when plans change, the universe is simply offering a better one, a mindset that keeps both clients and teams at ease.
Alongside her global client work, Paula remains deeply committed to mentoring the next generation, sharing the belief that craftsmanship, confidence, and vision can open doors far beyond what once seemed possible.
A Lifelong Love Affair with Roses
While Paula adores all flowers, roses have always held a special place in her heart. Her love for them began in childhood, growing up beside a local country park with rose gardens just beyond its gates.
“As children, we’d collect fallen petals and make our own perfume,” she recalls. “That scent still takes me straight back.”
Drawn to the endless shades, garden varieties, and abundant petals, Paula is unapologetically devoted to roses. Romantic, soft, and wonderfully fluffy, they remain without question her favourite flower.
Spray Roses Take Centre Stage
In recent years, Paula has seen spray roses rise confidently to the forefront of wedding floristry. Once considered a supporting act, they are now often the star of the show.
“I love the rambling, organic effect spray roses create, especially when paired with smilax,” she explains. “I’m drawn to top-heavy arrangements that cascade naturally; movement is everything to me.”
Where standard roses were once the hero, Paula now uses spray roses intentionally to create depth, texture, and a more natural, flowing aesthetic. Their cascading form allows her to achieve her signature garden-grown look: lush, romantic, and entirely unforced.
A Firm Favourite: Majolica
When it comes to favourite varieties, Paula doesn’t hesitate. Majolica has long been her go-to spray rose, prized for its ability to open beautifully and reliably. Elegant, textured, and effortlessly romantic, it has become a staple in almost all her wedding designs.
Looking Ahead: Floral Trends for 2026
While organic, rambling designs remain close to Paula’s heart, she’s already looking ahead. After seasons of heavily layered foliage, she’s ready to pare things back and let the flowers themselves take centre stage.
Her vision for the coming year is bolder and more artistic. She imagines designs that feel like oil paintings, floral moments that command attention rather than blend into the background. Movement will remain, but be curated more intentionally, paired with standout elements that feel memorable and expressive.
Giving Back Through Mentorship
If there’s one thing Paula is most passionate about, it’s mentoring. Having been part of the floral industry since she was 18, floristry is not just her career; it’s her lifestyle.
“I feel like I’m part of two worlds: the wedding industry and the floral industry,” she says. Through mentoring, she continues to give back, supporting florists who want to build their own businesses, refine their confidence, and follow their creative dreams, ensuring the future of the industry continues to bloom.
It was so good to catch up, Paula. We are looking forward to catching up again later in the year to discuss all things RSVP and Table Design Exhibition.
