“Floristry is the art of speaking without words, where every bloom tells a story, and beauty is arranged one petal at a time.”

Flowers have been intricately woven into the story of my life for as long as I can remember. Few things bring me greater joy. From a young age, I was always in the garden alongside my grandfather. His respect and love  for nature  was transferred to my mother. Who ultimately cultivated  a deep love for florals, that runs through my veins and continues to inspire me to this day.

I was raised in Pretoria, where I also completed my studies in Interior Design. In 2015, I opened The Railway Design Emporium, a boutique retail space dedicated to curated décor and fresh florals. But, as life often does, it led me down an unexpected path. In 2017, I packed up my entire life and relocated to the Picturesque town of Paarl, in the heart of the winelands, together with my two French Poodles, Phoebé and Khaleesi. While working full-time in an interior design role, I began freelancing for florists across the region, gradually immersing myself in the Western Cape’s vibrant floral industry.

Fast forward seven years, and a serendipitous conversation changed everything. One of my florist idols casually asked, “So Marolee, when are you finally starting your own thing?” That day a seed was planted, and soon after that Smith Artistry came into full bloom.

Floral design, for me, is an intentional and soulful craft. My background in interior design, visual merchandising, and styling shapes every aspect of my approach. I don’t just create floral arrangements, I curate visual experiences. Each design is thoughtfully composed and artfully arranged,  blending texture, and botanical rarity to create designs that not only elevate each space but also awaken a profound sense of beauty, enchantment and emotional resonance. 

At Smith Artistry, I design with heart always striving to create florals that is visually striking and personally meaningful . My ultimate goal is to capture the essence of  each couples unique personality, elevating their wedding day into an unforgettable celebration of their love and individuality.

Floristry is my calling. My true passion. This has been confirmed time and time again. For a long time I was torn between floristry and  interior design. But I soon realized I don’t have to choose, as both world seamlessly blend together. That is how He planned and indented it for me to be. 

Smith Artistry is a “God did this” story. The only one true God that guides me every step of the way. The One who hears my prayer for “vissies en broodjies” when I stress about not having enough flowers for a set up. The One who hold me steady when climbing up and down multiple ladders when doing an installation. The One who  ensured I arrive safely to every event set up. The One who gives me rest when there is only 3 hours of sleep. “I will personally go with you and I will give you rest – and everything will be fine for you.” Ex. 33:14

The One who sends people on my path that support and carry me. The One who cultivates a deep love and gratitude in my heart for each and every incredible supplier I have the privilege to work with.  Florist are only as strong as our amazing behind the scenes team. 

Every now and again whilst busy with floral prep , I come across that one extremely special flower. Every petal designed by the Master Gardener. The One who created the heavens and earth with the most precise detail.  And the best part, He created nature for our enjoyment. How else can we not believed that there is a Creator that hold the universe in his hand. 

I will be grateful all the days of my life that I am privileged  to have been put in this position, to create joy and spread love with His Creation.

Song of Salomon – 2:12 “Flowers appear on the earth, the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land.” Here, the blossoming flowers are associated with the arrival of a joyful season, and their presence is intertwined with the themes of love and harmony.

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