“Flowers have a way of speaking when words feel too small … they tell stories with their shapes, textures, colours and scents, and they bring comfort, celebration and sunshine wherever they go.”
Glynnis Dirksen from Kloof embraces the season of renewal with the same vibrant energy as blossoms bursting into bloom after winter’s slumber. With more than 25 years of floral artistry under her belt, Glynnis is on a mission to sprinkle joy into homes and workplaces with the simple, powerful beauty of flowers.
After selling her wedding venue Talloula, Glynnis didn’t hang up her apron. Instead, she leaned into her lifelong love for styling, colour and creative storytelling, opening her ‘retirement dream’ – Wild Poppy – a cheerful, welcoming space where fresh flowers and unique gifts bring beauty to everyday life.
“The name Wild Poppy felt right – playful, whimsical, a little bit spontaneous,” Glynnis explains. “We’re a modern flower studio, but most of all, we’re about celebrating life’s special moments, big and small.”
There’s something undeniably special about spring in the floral world – and Glynnis lives for it.
“To work with happy, dancing blooms like freesia, sweetpeas, ranunculus, stocks or tulips is pure joy,” she says. “It’s like watching nature exhale after a long sleep.”
Using the language of flowers, she curates arrangements that reflect emotion and meaning – perfect for gifting, gatherings or simply to uplift your own space.
Quirky, gift ideas …
Some of her most memorable combinations include …
- Coral, mustard and eggplant – warm and moody, yet full of personality
- Sunny yellow and sky blue – a vibrant, joyful pairing using daffodils and delphiniums
- Pastels with a pop of lime green – for a fresh, modern twist
And for a quirky, affordable gift idea? “Try wrapping potted herbs or pansies in old magazines or calendar pages,” she suggests. “Add a fabulous ribbon, and you’ve got something personal, green and gorgeous.”
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, setting a brunch table, or simply want to brighten someone’s day, Glynnis says gifting fresh flowers never fails.
Her personal recommendation for the season is a light, joyful bouquet with herbs like rosemary and mint, paired with soft spring blooms in happy colours that don’t scream, but sing.”
Details: You’ll find Wild Poppy Studio at Shop 6, Natalia Terrace, Charles Way, Kloof. Call or WhatsApp: 060 391 6993, e-mail: hello@wildpoppystudio.co.za or visit wildpoppystudio.co.za. Follow on IG or FB: @thewildpoppystudiosa
Flower care tips from the expert
Want your blooms to last longer at home? Follow Glynnis’ golden rules:
Unwrap flowers immediately and trim stems by 2 to 3cm
Remove leaves below the waterline to prevent bacteria
Use room-temperature water and refresh every 2 to 3 days
Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, and ripening fruit
Use flower food or a DIY mix of sugar and a dash of bleach
Display fresh stems in high-traffic areas like the entrance or guest loo for maximum joy
Flower therapy
Glynnis shares the benefits of having flowers at home
Mental and emotional wellness
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Elevate mood and serotonin levels
- Improve focus and mental clarity
Connection to nature
- A sense of calm and balance
- A daily reminder of beauty in small things
- Encouragement of mindfulness through care and arrangement
Practical perks
- Enhanced air quality (hello, peace lilies!)
- Stylish home accents
- A warm, welcoming atmosphere for guests
DIY – A spring brunch table, Wild Poppy-style
Create a joyful floral table with Glynnis’ step-by-step guide:
Base: Use a woven tray or grass placemats as a base for texture
Add greenery: Place terracotta pots filled with herbs like rosemary, rocket or lavender for scent and freshness
Blooms: Add clusters of ranunculus, tulips, or sweetpeas in small jars or vases
Unexpected touch: Incorporate lemons, mini pumpkins, or radishes for a whimsical, edible twist
Glassware: Serve up Mimosas or lemonade in coloured glass tumblers
Finishing touch: Sprinkle petals across the table or wrap a napkin with a sprig of rosemary
“Your table doesn’t need to be fancy,” says Glynnis. “Just thoughtful – filled with texture, colour, and little surprises.”
