Meet Marta Sanderson, founder of La Bomba Floristry, a Chinatown, Vancouver-based floral studio. Moving from Australia nine years ago, Marta has become known for blending floral art and set design, incorporating the studio's bold use of colour with playful, meticulously considered and immersive arrangements.
Blundstone and gravitypope visited Marta in her studio as she prepared for Valentine’s Day arrangements, and got to ask her about her inspiration and journey.
View the full below.
Video by @justinpelletier_
What first drew you to floristry?
I always knew I was creative, but I hadn’t quite figured out my medium. Around the time I was living in London, floristry was having a renaissance. I saw Azuma Makoto send flowers into space, and I had this ‘aha’ moment. It made me realize that floristry was an art form beyond the traditional mom-and-pop shopfronts we grew up with. Florists were working in studios, creating sculptures and unique compositions using plants as their medium. I saw floristry as something more than just a single flower in a vase, and my obsession grew from there.
How would you describe your style when it comes to floral design?
Our style is all about creating an experience for the viewer. I would define my personal style as classic but with an unexpected twist and that carries through to La Bomba’s aesthetic. I love an element of discovery, something that evolves over time, and combinations of flowers and materials that make people question flowers and ultimately how amazing nature is.
Are there certain flowers or colour palettes you find yourself returning to again and again?
People often comment on our colour palettes, but honestly, they’re mostly intuitive, shaped by whatever we’re working with that week. I love a tonal palette featuring various materials in a single colour family. I love throwing out the rule book and just getting a sense for what feels right for the space that the composition will be viewed. Creating a mood through the colour scheme.
What do you think makes a great florist?
A great florist is always learning and evolving. Dedication to mastering new techniques and maintaining a world-class mindset is essential. We constantly push ourselves to discover new materials and innovative ways to showcase nature, whether in a naturalistic or stylized form. I never want to feel too comfortable in one particular style or method. Everything we create is unique, no two compositions are ever the same.
Can you share a bit about your journey in starting (or joining) your floral business?
I started La Bomba Floristry because I wanted to carve my own path as a designer. Aside from a few freelance jobs when I was starting out, I’ve never worked for anyone else. Everything we create comes from an innate sense of intuition. From how I assemble the team, the materials, and the designs. I truly believe our work is the sum of all its parts, and I feel incredibly lucky to have a team that brings their own individual design sensibilities to the table.
I always say this cheesy line that “the flowers find you”. It’s really true in the sense that most florists pivot into the career change well into an already established career. Something about flowers captivates them. It takes a certain kind of person to decide to work in this industry full time. It’s not just about the flowers, you become and engineer on building mechanics, Home Depot becomes a place to inspire - all the things you don’t see. It’s not just about the flowers you’re working with.
How have your Australian roots inspired your business and your approach to floral design?
It’s funny because, now that I’m in Canada, I find myself drawn to Australian botanicals more than ever, something I took for granted when I grew up there. Their uniqueness, resilience, and beauty naturally appeal to me, and our customers are equally captivated by them.
What role do sustainability and ethical sourcing play in your work?
Sustainability is a core value for us. We have a strict no-waste policy and strive to give every material a full lifecycle. We minimize single-use plastics, and all of our event work is 100% foam-free. We can always be doing better, and look to industry leaders in sustainability for the ever evolving techniques that we can introduce into our practice.
How do flowers influence mood and atmosphere in a space?
Flowers have a profound ability to shape the mood and atmosphere of a space. They bring life, movement, and a sensory experience that can completely transform how a place feels. Soft, delicate blooms create a sense of romance and tranquility, while bold, sculptural arrangements add energy and drama. I feel honoured and privileged to be a custodian of people’s experience with flowers, using our compositions to enhance their environment and evoke emotion.
How do you like to celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Spending time with my husband and daughter, putting my feet up after a long week, and letting my husband hand me a glass of wine while presenting me with a charcuterie board.
What Blundstones are you currently wearing and what made you choose this pair? Or what do you like about them?
I’m wearing my 10-year-old Blundstones in part of the shoot. They’re the dress boot style, which I was drawn to because they feel a little more elevated and polished while still being just as comfortable as the classic pairs.
