The paper flower trended exploded last year. No party was a party if it did not have a paper flower backdrop. From tea parties to bridal and baby showers the paper flower trend has definitely become a big deal.
We caught up with founder of By Invite, Anna Mushimba. By Invite is Namibian crafts company specializing in wedding invitations and paper flowers. We find out if the trend is a fad or not.
Why are paper flowers such a big trend right now?
Paper flowers are a big trend right now because of the illusion they create. They look like real flowers, yet so large in size. They create a mystical feel to any room. Also, they look amazing when used as a backdrop for photographs.
Do you think it’s a fad and people will be over it in the next year?
No, I think it’s going to take a couple of years before they get over it. If anything, the paper flower craft has evolved so much from when I first started. They are starting to look more and more realistic and lots of other materials are being used as opposed to only using paper.
How did you get into the business?
Honestly, through a lot of experimenting. I have always been crafty and extremely creative. I guess this is just that coming to live.
I started making wedding invitation cards, for about a year. It was going really well but also, became too much of a routine. As a crafter, you always want to expand your knowledge and challenge yourself. When I saw paper flowers, I thought of trying one. I tried, got it right and just never stopped from there.
The first backdrop I ever made was for my friend’s stall at the second Monochrome’s The Great Pop Up, that really got a lot of people interested, I’ve been busy ever since.
The craft is interesting and when you completely immerse yourself into it, it becomes more interesting, I’m still learning everyday.
What do you love most about what you do?
The reaction from my clients when they receive their order or see my final installation.. Ahhhh Priceless!
What are some of the flowers By Invite recreates?
We have been making a lot of paper flowers, different types including roses.
Recently, we started experimenting with foam and crepe paper, that has been pretty amazing. We have made foam roses, Orchids from foam and giant Peonies from Crepe.
What challenges are you faced with when it comes to running a crafty business?
Not having high end machinery to craft, doing things manually takes quiet some time and is tiresome.
Talk to us about your upcoming Master Classes?
This is probably the most requested thing ever since I started By Invite. I’m excited and can’t wait. We will only be hosting one master class per year though. I would like to create a community of paper florists in the country. It’s also a coming together of ladies with the same interest for a day of fun. My hope is for them to learn as much as they can and to take home the skills and techniques required to create beautiful and neat paper flowers.
Future plans for By Invite
Yes, we have so many exciting projects launching this year. Starting with Valentine’s Day. Then a new “let’s all Bloom” campaign. We look forward to the introduction of new flowers and the growing the business out side of the country.
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