The first time a couple booked dinner at a buzzy new cocktail bar in East London, they expected to be wowed. But they left after one drink. Why? The space felt flat. No atmosphere. No sense of occasion. Just another venue with overpriced drinks and plastic plants trying to pass for charm.
That’s the power of great floral design. When it’s done right, people stay longer, post photos, tag the venue, and return. But when it’s off – even slightly – it turns a space cold and forgettable.
At Starry Eyed Events, we specialise in floral design in London that creates instant atmosphere for hospitality venues. We work with restaurants, cocktail bars, and event spaces to style immersive environments that connect with your brand and keep people talking.
1. Using Cheap Faux Flowers That Age Badly
There’s a difference between durable and dead-looking. Fake flowers have their place, but they should never be dusty, sun-bleached, or clearly plastic. Guests notice. And it cheapens the overall feel – even if the food is Michelin-level.
If you’re aiming for luxury florals, invest in either high-quality faux or better yet, fresh flowers for venues. They bring natural scent, texture, and movement. If fresh isn’t realistic year-round, consider a hybrid installation: real flowers rotated seasonally within a permanent structure of lifelike faux stems.
2. Thinking a Flower Wall Is Enough
Flower walls had their Instagram moment, but hospitality styling has moved on. Today’s guests want something more layered and thoughtful. A single flower wall shoved in the corner doesn’t count as restaurant floral design.
Instead, think in three dimensions – tableside flowers, ceiling-hung vines, botanical corners, even floral centrepieces at the bar. Mood-setting flowers should flow with your interiors and enhance the guest experience, not interrupt it.
3. Ignoring Seasonality and Scent
Not all flowers suit all spaces. Scented lilies in a small dining room? Overpowering. Peonies out of season? Expensive and disappointing. Choosing flowers that work with your space, lighting, and seasonal cycles is key to smart floral design services.
Seasonal floral arrangements not only look better – they’re more sustainable and cost-effective. They also help reinforce that your venue is in touch with nature and the moment. Your guests might not know the names of the flowers, but they’ll feel the difference.
4. Missing the Brand Connection
Branded florals are more than just sticking your logo on a flower pot. It’s about connecting your colour palette, vibe, and guest experience through subtle design cues. A dark moody cocktail bar shouldn’t have the same floral styling as a breezy Mediterranean lunch spot.
This is where bespoke floral styling becomes a smart investment. The right floral installations can support your theme, highlight your best corners, and reinforce your identity. A good design-led approach keeps everything coherent -from napkins to the last rose petal.
5. Styling Once, Then Forgetting About It
Flowers aren’t art installations. They need care, rotation, and attention. Yet many bars splash out on a one-off venue decoration and leave it untouched for years. Dust builds up. Colours fade. The impact dies.
To keep your flower displays for restaurants working hard, treat floral styling as part of your ongoing hospitality strategy. Seasonal refreshes, quick maintenance swaps, and visual tweaks tied to your events calendar keep things sharp. Plus, it gives your social media team fresh content to post every month.
Why Good Floral Styling Matters
When guests walk into your venue, they feel it before they see it. Flowers set the tone. They say “we care about the details.” Whether it’s tablescape design for a tasting menu, floral accents in your powder room, or statement florals hanging from the ceiling—what you choose shapes how people remember your brand.
And it’s not just about looking nice. Well-executed floral decor London keeps people in seats longer, drives photos and tags, and boosts repeat bookings. It’s a part of your customer journey, just like lighting or music.
Ready to Rework Your Floral Design?
If your restaurant or cocktail bar needs a refresh—or you’re launching something new – speak to us. We create immersive experiences through floral styling that fits your space, your guests, and your goals. Whether you need a bold new entrance or a full seasonal rollout across multiple sites, we make flowers part of your brand story—not just your decor.
Call 07738 156614 or contact us to start a design conversation.
FAQs
- Do you cover all areas of London?
Yes, we work across Greater London, including central, east, west, and surrounding areas. - Can you work with specific brand colours or themes?
Absolutely. We tailor every design to fit your brand identity and space. - Do you offer ongoing maintenance or floral refreshes?
Yes, we offer seasonal updates and flexible maintenance packages. - Can you work with tight spaces or listed buildings?
Yes. We’re used to working around restrictions and awkward spaces. We’ll find a way. - How much does floral styling for a bar or restaurant cost?
It varies by size, flower choice, and complexity. Get in touch for a clear, tailored quote.
