The World Cup Floral Art 2025 is a few months away. Scheduled to take place from August 28 to 31, 2025 at the World Forum in The Hague, Netherlands, the competition will feature top floral designers and masters from around the world. Claudia Tararache, a renowned florist from Romania, will be among those contesting during the 4-day intense competition.
Get to know Claudia, her floral style, inspirations, and what she expects to gain from this year's World Cup. Here is a detailed conversation, as she shares more about her personal and professional life.
Get to Know Claudia Tararache- A Contestant in the World Cup Floral Art 2025
Q: For the people who do not know you: Who is Claudia Tararache?
Claudia:
"I am a Romanian floral designer with a deep passion for innovation, craftsmanship, and artistic expression in floristry. Alongside my husband, I manage our family-owned floral business, where I focus on the creative and technical aspects, while he ensures the smooth operation of the company. This partnership allows me to dedicate myself to design, artistic exploration, and continuously refining my skills. Floristry became my calling 17 years ago, the moment I stepped into a flower shop for the first time. Since then, I have worked tirelessly to develop my expertise, learning from some of the most influential floral masters, including Gregor Lersch and Hanneke Frankema. Their mentorship has shaped my approach, helping me integrate structure, movement, and emotion into my work.
Beyond floral design, I am committed to contributing to the industry’s growth—through collaborations, competitions, and, in the future, education. My goal is not only to create impactful floral compositions but also to inspire and support other florists in their artistic journeys. Floristry is more than arranging flowers—it’s about storytelling, technique, and constant evolution, and I am proud to be part of this ever-changing art form."
More of Her Journey, Where It All Started for Claudia
What inspired Claudia Tararache to be a floral designer? She delves into her first inspiration and how it has shaped her life for the past 17 years.
"Seventeen years ago, I took my first steps into the world of floristry, and from that moment, I knew this was my true calling. My journey began when I met my husband and was introduced to his family’s business—Anthurium Flowers, the oldest and most well-known florist in Constanța. The vibrant colors, delicate fragrances, and creative possibilities captivated me instantly. At first, I created freely, without formal training, simply following my instinct. But as my passion grew, so did my curiosity and my need to understand the deeper principles of floral design. I started by reading every book I could find and soon began seeking out specialized training to refine my skills.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of studying under Gregor Lersch and Hanneke Frankema, both of whom have played an essential role in shaping my artistic approach. While Gregor and Hanneke have been my primary mentors, I have also learned from many other renowned florists—not just through formal training but by working alongside them, observing their techniques, and absorbing their creative perspectives. Being around famous designers has also continuously challenged me to evolve and refine my artistic voice.
A defining milestone in my career was obtaining my Master's in International Floral Design at Boerma Instituut under Gregor Lersch. His guidance helped me master the interplay of structure, movement, and the emotional depth of floral design. However, I firmly believe that learning never stops. This is why, last year, I enrolled again in Gregor’s Master's program—to deepen my knowledge and further push the boundaries of my creativity. Beyond floral design, I take great honor in being an Ambassador for Floral Fundamentals, a role that allows me to collaborate with some of the world’s top designers. One of my most memorable experiences was in the Interflora World Cup in Manchester, where I worked alongside Max van de Sluis and other ambassadors, contributing to remarkable floral installations.
For me, floristry is a continuous journey of learning, exploration, and artistic storytelling. Whether through my work in our family business, international collaborations, or future teaching, I am committed to pushing the limits of floral design while inspiring others to do the same."
Claudia Talks About Her Signature Floral Style
Claudia explains how Romanian culture influences her floral design approach and what her signature floral style is:
"My floral design is not necessarily defined by Romanian traditions but by the artistic essence of my culture. Romania has a strong appreciation for handcrafted beauty, intricate details, and a deep connection to nature, and these principles are naturally reflected in my work. I incorporate textural depth and layering techniques that are reminiscent of traditional embroidery and folk craftsmanship.
As for my signature style, I would describe it as decorative, detailed, and highly structured. I enjoy working with strong compositions that feel harmonious and natural, allowing textures and color transitions to create depth. I love using wirework and mechanical structures, which enable me to push creative boundaries while maintaining elegance and balance in my designs.
For me, floral design is a continuous evolution. While my cultural background shapes my artistic perspective, my ultimate goal is to create work that speaks through emotion, movement, and refined craftsmanship."
Balance Between Commercial Mindset and Artistry
With Claudia Tararache running her florist shop, she talks about her approach to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a design, while remaining commercially competitive and without any quality compromises.
Q. With having your shop Floraria Anthurium, how does this influence your style, perhaps by thinking more commercially?
"One of the biggest influences of running a florist shop is understanding that design must be both aesthetically impactful and functional. In editorial work, I have the freedom to experiment with intricate techniques and avant-garde structures, but in the shop, I need to consider durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of transport. This has taught me to be adaptable, making sure that even the most artistic designs remain accessible and practical.
However, I never compromise on quality or design principles. Instead, I apply my knowledge of color harmony, structure, and movement to create commercial arrangements that feel elevated and unique. My goal is to bring high-level floristry into everyday life, offering clients something beyond standard bouquets—something that carries a distinct artistic touch.
At Floraria Anthurium, I also see the direct impact flowers have on people’s emotions, which reinforces my belief that floristry is not just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling and connection. Every arrangement, whether for an event, a wedding, or a simple gift, should evoke a feeling. This mindset keeps me inspired and reminds me that floristry is about more than just creating—it’s about bringing beauty into people’s lives in a meaningful way."
A Glimpse of Her Creative Process
Q: What inspires your designs, and how do you translate that into your work?
Claudia:
"My creative process is a fusion of intuition, structure, and storytelling. Every design starts with a vision—an emotion I want to convey, a movement I want to capture, or a contrast I want to explore. For me, floristry is not just about arranging flowers; it’s about creating a visual dialogue between form, texture, and color. Inspiration can come from anywhere. Sometimes, it's the fluidity of nature—the way a vine curls, the patterns in a leaf, or the organic layering of petals. Other times, it’s architecture, fashion, or even a fleeting moment of light and shadow that sparks an idea. I don’t replicate references; instead, I absorb and interpret, allowing these influences to guide my designs in a way that feels natural and authentic.
Once I have a concept, I begin by visualizing the structure. If the design is complex, I might sketch it first to refine the mechanics. I think about lines, negative space, and balance, ensuring that every element has a purpose. I also consider how colors and textures interact, layering materials to create depth and harmony. The selection of materials is crucial. I work mainly with high-quality flowers from the Netherlands, choosing each bloom intentionally to support the emotion I want to express. The texture is a defining element in my work, and I love combining unexpected materials to create dynamic contrasts.
While I have a structured approach, I also leave room for spontaneity. Flowers have a natural rhythm, and sometimes the best results come from letting them dictate movement within the composition. I enjoy this balance between control and fluidity—it’s what gives a design its soul. Ultimately, my process is about transforming inspiration into an experience, crafting arrangements that are both artistically refined and emotionally evocative. Each creation is a reflection of my journey, my influences, and my passion for pushing the boundaries of floral design."
Q: What is the story behind your decision to compete in the 2025 World Cup Floral Art? Was there a particular moment that made you say, "Yes, I'm doing this"?
Claudia:
"Deciding to compete in the 2025 World Cup of Floral Art was not a sudden decision, but rather the result of years of passion, learning, and the constant pursuit of growth in floristry. I have always believed that true progress comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Over time, I have refined my skills, challenged myself with new techniques, and pushed creative boundaries. But at some point, I realized that to truly evolve, I needed to embrace an experience that would push me beyond anything I had done before.
Competing at this level is not just about showcasing skills—it’s about testing adaptability, creativity, and resilience under immense pressure. What made me say “Yes, I’m doing this” was not a single defining moment, but rather the recognition that if I waited for the 'perfect' time, it might never come. Growth happens when you take risks, and this was a challenge I was ready to embrace.
For me, the World Cup is an opportunity to prove to myself how far I’ve come, while also discovering how much further I can go. It is about pushing limits, evolving artistically, and being part of something bigger—an international platform that celebrates the very best of floral design."
Q: The World Cup Floral Art is sponsored by two major flower brands, Decorum and Marginpar. You will probably be designing with their flowers and plants as well during the event. Do you already work with flowers from two main floral sponsors of the World Cup?
Claudia:
"I work with Marginpar flowers weekly, and they are an essential part of my floral designs. Some of my go-to varieties include Clematis, Chasmanthium, Craspedia, Scabiosa, and Eryngium—each of these brings texture, movement, and refinement to my compositions. I truly can’t imagine my bouquets without them. What I appreciate most about Marginpar is not just the exceptional quality of their flowers, but also their commitment to sustainability. They emphasize responsible farming practices, ensuring that their production process is both ethical and environmentally conscious. Their wide range of unique varieties and efficient logistics make them a preferred choice for professional florists.
With Decorum, I have mainly worked with plants, and I have always been impressed by their high quality and longevity. Their plants are carefully grown and consistently meet professional standards.
Both Marginpar and Decorum set a high standard in the industry, and I look forward to working with their products at the World Cup of Floral Art. Having access to top-quality flowers and plants is essential for executing innovative designs and pushing creative boundaries."
What Does World Cup Floral Art Mean for Claudia?
Claudia shares the following about, why the World Cup floral art is important for her; personally and professionally.
"The World Cup of Floral Art represents both a personal milestone and a professional turning point. It is a moment to step outside of my comfort zone, embrace the pressure, and trust in the skills I have developed over the years. On a personal level, this competition is about growth—learning how to navigate high-stakes challenges, refining my techniques, and expressing my vision in a way that feels authentic yet innovative. It is a chance to prove to myself that I am ready to take on one of the most demanding and rewarding experiences in the floral industry.
Professionally, I see this as an opportunity to expand my reach, connect with the international floral community, and gain insights that will shape my future work. The exposure and experience gained from competing at this level will not only refine my artistic direction but will also open new doors for collaborations and creative projects. The World Cup is not just about competition—it is about inspiration, evolution, and the continuous pursuit of excellence. Regardless of the outcome, I know that this experience will leave a lasting impact on my career and my artistic journey."
Q: What do you hope to achieve through this competition, beyond winning the title? Are there any messages or themes you're hoping to convey through your work?
Claudia:
"More than just a competition, the World Cup of Floral Art is a chance to test my limits and discover new dimensions of my creativity. My goal is not only to perform at my best under pressure but also to evolve as a designer, embracing every challenge as a learning opportunity. I also see this as an opportunity to connect with the international floral community, exchange ideas, and gain fresh insights that will influence my future work.
Being surrounded by florists who share the same passion but interpret it in different ways is inspiring, and I look forward to the creative dialogue that happens in such a setting. Winning is, of course, a dream, but beyond that, my greatest achievement would be leaving a mark—through my designs, my approach, and my dedication to craftsmanship. If my work resonates with others and sparks a new way of seeing floral design, then I will have achieved exactly what I set out to"
Q: How do you stay updated and innovative in an industry that's always evolving? Are there any particular trends or movements in floral design that excite you?
Claudia:
"Floristry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead means continuously learning, experimenting, and remaining open to new influences. I believe innovation comes from a mix of technical mastery, creative exploration, and a deep understanding of current movements in design.
For me, staying updated is a natural part of my work. I invest in advanced training and masterclasses, learning from some of the best floral designers in the world. I also follow international events, exhibitions, and competitions to see how floral artistry is evolving globally. Being part of communities like Floral Fundamentals allows me to exchange ideas with other designers, gaining fresh perspectives and refining my approach. I stay innovative by challenging myself to never settle into a routine. Experimenting with new techniques, materials, and mechanics keeps my work fresh while remaining connected to the broader floral community ensures that I’m always learning and growing."
Q: Looking ahead, where do you see yourself and your floral art in the next few years? What are your dreams and goals after the World Cup?
Claudia:
"In the coming years, I see myself not only continuing to refine my techniques and push creative boundaries but also taking a significant step toward teaching and mentoring. I want to share my experience with other florists, helping them develop their skills, build confidence, and explore their artistic potential. Teaching has always been something I felt drawn to, and I believe it is time to start giving back to the industry that has given me so much.
Beyond teaching, I aim to remain actively involved in international collaborations and creative projects that challenge and inspire me. Floristry is an ever-evolving art form, and I want to be part of that growth—not only through my work but also by guiding and inspiring others. The World Cup is an important milestone, but my journey does not stop there. My goal is to continue learning, evolving, and sharing my passion, ensuring that my work and my knowledge contribute to the future of floral design."
Advice to Young Florists
Q. Finally, what advice would you give to young florists or floral designers who are just starting and looking to find their unique voice?
"Stay true to what truly inspires you, and let your style develop naturally by following what excites you. Embrace every challenge, find joy in every creation, and allow your passion to guide you. The more you trust yourself, the more your unique floral voice will shine. Be patient, stay curious, Surround yourself with inspiration, and enjoy the journey, because finding your style takes time, experience, and the dedication you bring to your craft every day."
Photos by and courtesy of Claudia Tararache, unless otherwise noted.
