Sometimes, a closer look at one’s backyard is all it takes to find something truly world-class. And that is exactly what events stylist and florist extraordinaire Dave Sandoval presents in his latest collection of all-Filipino curated florals.
Launched in time for the June 12 Independence Day celebrations, Dave Sandoval Floral Atelier’s “Irog” is a passion project that features arrangements made from 100-percent homegrown flowers; and embellished with decorative elements produced by local artisans.
Following a “from farm to your arm” model, “Irog” trains the spotlight on a variety of local blooms, including the national flower sampaguita, as well as chrysanthemum, anthurium, heliconia and a number of orchid species. These flowers are sourced from farms in Batangas, Bukidon, Laguna, Davao and Benguet, among others.
Accompanying these locally grown, world-class blooms are containers made from abaca weaves, sinamay and capiz – all of which are skillfully crafted by Filipino artisans. “With its all-Filipino elements, ‘Irog’ arrangements elevate flowers from being a language of love, to being a language of love for country. They are best for cultural festivities and ceremonies that are close to every Filipino’s heart, such as family dinners, birthdays and the like,” explains Dave.
What’s more, the product line will soon include sampaguita-scented candles that will make for perfect accompaniments to these gorgeous pieces.
While known for his exciting event designs and timeless aesthetic, Dave shares that his passion for flower arrangements is hugely influenced by Filipino traditions, which he grew up with. “Even before I started my business, my mother, lola and I used to decorate the church whenever it’s time for the Flores de Mayo yearly processions, as my dad would play songs by Lucio San Pedro and Levi Celerio in the background,” he shares.
Aside from being an ode to our heritage, Dave notes that “Irog” also helps support local flower farmers and artisans, who find themselves in constant competition with international suppliers. “Rather than trying to gain approval in international trade shows and events, we want to do our small part in helping uplift our local industries. With these kinds of products, we hope to inspire our peers to further improve our craft and maximize our own resources, until such a time when we’re ready to shine on the world stage,” says Dave.
In an almost poetic way, Dave Sandoval Floral Atelier’s “Irog” embodies what real independence is about. “For us and our partner farmers, real independence is about being able to express creativity while relying on our own, homegrown talents and resources. It is sustainable, beneficial for our local industries, and most importantly, a source of pride for our farmers and artisans alike,” he concludes.
For more information, please follow @eventstylistDave or Dave Sandoval Floral Atelier on Instagram, You may also call or text 09177018178 for more information.