Karmen Kovač Resnik’s journey into floristry wasn’t the result of a lifelong plan—it was a path that unfolded naturally, shaped by her love for design and creativity. Growing up in the Slovenian countryside, surrounded by nature, she always had an artistic eye. Though she initially considered a career in art or design, floristry became the medium where she could bring her ideas to life.
Now, after years of experience in the floral world, she’s set to compete in the 2025 World Cup of Floral Art, representing Slovenia on the biggest stage in the industry. In this conversation, Karmen shares the experiences that led her here, the creative process behind her work, and what it means to step into the world of high-level floral competition.
Discover More About Karmen Kovač Resnik - Slovenia's Rising Floral Talent
Flowers might be a universal language, but the people behind them each have their own unique story. Karmen Kovač Resnik didn’t set out to become a florist—her path started in design, took unexpected turns, and eventually led her to a career where creativity and design go hand in hand. With years of experience and an extensive understanding of her work, she is now preparing for the 2025 World Cup of Floral Art, a competition that will put her skills to the test on a global stage. So, let’s start with the basics.
Q: For the people who do not know you: Who is Karmen Kovač Resnik?
Karmen:
"My name is Karmen Kovač Resnik and I come from a beautiful green country, Slovenia. I'm 35 years old and grew up in the countryside, embraced nature and farm animals, and then I got married and started living in the city. I'm a proud mother of two beautiful children. I love working with people, and from my childhood I've always loved to draw and design."
Q: Could you share a bit about your journey in the floral industry? You initially aimed for art school but ended up studying design. How did this path lead you to the world of floristry? In other words: what inspired you to become a floral artist?
Karmen:
"I finished high school with a focus on arrangement and design. Since I’ve always loved drawing and creating, I quickly found a job in a florist shop after graduation, knowing it would allow me to express myself creatively. Floristry has always been a way for me to experiment and offer unique designs.
I have a big appreciation for colors and different materials, constantly exploring new combinations. I was fortunate to have an incredible mentor who shared all his knowledge with me, and I absorbed everything like a sponge. Now, after 14 years in this profession, I can confidently say that I’ve found joy and fulfillment in a career that allows me to create and connect with people every day."
Playing With Styles to Find Her Signature Style
Finding a personal style in floristry takes time, experimentation, and an understanding of materials. For Karmen, this path has been shaped by her love for colors, textures, and flowers, of course. But how did she find her personal style and what describes it?
Karmen:
"I love classic styles that do not stand out much from the average."
Q: As a florist, you create dozens of bouquets every week. How do you manage the demands of creating all these bouquets while infusing each with unique creativity?
Karmen:
"Every bouquet you create is unique, designed for a different occasion, season, and special person. No two bouquets are alike, as they vary in color, materials, and style. Each day brings fresh inspiration and energy, influencing the beauty and creativity of every arrangement."
The Creative Process Behind Karmen's Floral Work and Her Participation in the World Cup
Every designer has their own differentiated creative process when it comes to creating with flowers. Karmen shares more about hers, and how Slovenian culture has influenced her designs and creations:
"Slovenian people tend to appreciate classical and simple designs that highlight subtlety. The preference is often for natural materials, which reflect the beauty of the local environment, and calming, neutral colors that express a sense of peace. There's a connection to nature, and this is evident in the choice of materials and tones, creating an understated aesthetic that resonates with the Slovenian culture."
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"?
Karmen:
"My victory in the national championship earned me a ticket to the World Cup of Floral Art. Since I love embracing new challenges and opportunities, I decided to take part in the biggest competition of my life."
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?
Karmen:
"In our florist shop, we sell potted plants and flowers from Decorum. They offer a wide range of high-quality flowers, especially orchids, which our clients absolutely love. I’m excited to work with their materials in the competition."
Q: What does the World Cup Floral Art mean to you personally and professionally? How do you see it impacting your career?
She shares:
"This competition means a lot to me, both professionally and personally, as it brings a great challenge. I will be competing with some of the best florists in the world, all of whom are unique and incredibly talented. I know this experience will offer me a fresh perspective, new ideas, and valuable insights. It will be an honor to bring all of this knowledge back to my country and share it with my colleagues."
World Cup of Floral Art 2025
Scheduled for 2025, the World Cup of Floral Art will be a distinguished and eagerly awaited international event, uniting the most skilled florists from across the globe to demonstrate their artistry and expertise. With participants drawing inspiration from diverse styles and cultures, the competition will showcase stunning floral arrangements, providing a truly immersive experience for both competitors and spectators alike. Because the competition is fierce, Karmen reflects on how she handles the pressure and maintains her focus during such high-stakes events.
"Sometimes it's easy to work under pressure because you know you have to give all you got, and it sometimes pushes you over the limit and that is how you grow best."
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?
Karmen:
"I would like to get to a higher level. As a florist who primarily creates classical bouquets, this competition is an opportunity for me to challenge myself and prove that I can create designs on a larger, more advanced scale. While I feel both excited and nervous about competing with the best florists in the world, I’m eager to test my skills."
Q: Looking ahead, where do you see yourself and your floral art in the next few years? What are your dreams and goals post-World Cup?
She says:
"In the future, I don't see myself anywhere else than in the flower business and industry. I would like to have my own florist shop and make people happy."
Staying Up to Date With Trends in the Floristry
Staying up to date with trends in the flower industry is essential for any florist who wants to remain competitive and innovative. By keeping an eye on emerging styles and new techniques, florists can create fresh, relevant designs that captivate their clients and reflect the latest floral trends.
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?
"Through social networks, I follow some of the best florists in the world, who are always full of new ideas. I often come across new techniques and styles that inspire me. However, I am more drawn to nature and a classic style, which is still highly appreciated by many people."
There is an observation by you that women no longer wait for men to buy them flowers. Is that a positive trend (for women) or a negative (for men)? Why do you think men still feel hesitant about purchasing flowers, and how can the industry encourage a change?
Karmen:
"I believe that women still enjoy treating themselves to a potted plant or a bouquet. However, there is a negative trend among men, as they often forget to buy flowers for their girlfriends, wives, or mothers. Men need to realize that flowers aren’t just for Valentine’s Day – they’re a thoughtful gesture that can brighten someone’s day all year long."
Q: What tips would you offer to those looking to break into the floral design industry?
"The job of a florist is the best in the world. Anyone who loves to create and has a passion for flowers needs a bit of creativity and precision. It’s a profession that offers a vast range of knowledge and provides new insights every day. It’s a career that people admire, and I have no regrets about a single day spent working with flowers because I do it with my heart."
Kovač is ready to take on the challenge of the World Cup of Floral Art 2025, bringing back new knowledge and inspiration to share with her colleagues and elevate the floral industry in her country.
Photos courtesy of Karmen Kovač Resnik.
