Meet Anice
One brave decision changed everything. Now I create opulent artificial arrangements that surprise even the biggest sceptics, all from my Yorkshire studio where every piece tells a story and hides a tiny secret.
In 2024 I left my job in the City, where I worked in risk management, to create my own business and follow a dream. I have always been creative, co-chairing a painting and drawing club for colleagues, but this was still a huge step. It involved big changes in life style and tempo as well as location. I grew up in the North and so moving to the beautiful county of Yorkshire seemed the obvious choice – plus it brought me nearer to family.
One-of-a-Kind Originals
Each arrangement is a true ‘one-off’ – never replicated, ensuring your piece is truly exclusive.
Premium Artificial Florals
Highest quality stems from specialist suppliers, many with “real touch” textures that feel like fresh flowers.
Pre-loved Vessels with History
Vintage and antique containers that bring authenticity and reduce
carbon footprint.
So why flowers? I grew up amongst them as my mother created flower arrangements for events. I often sat with her as she worked, happily arranging broken blooms and left over greenery into my own designs. One of my happiest memories is when we foraged for an Autumnal wedding, seeking rosehips and seedheads before such things were fashionable. Initially sceptical of artificial flowers, I have been amazed by their proliferation and growing quality over the past decade. The potential to create a new art form which lasts for years was irresistible! I set about learning my craft.
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
You pulled my exact vision from my head and created it perfectly; thank you so so much. I can’t put into words how perfectly the final piece complements my brand. It’s not just a floral arrangement – it’s a visual representation of everything I want my brand to communicate.
We couldn’t be happier. Anice is so talented and we hope other indies discover her work and she gets lots of new clients and I can go on a trip round Leeds discovering her work all over the place.
We’re absolutely delighted with this stunning artificial floral arrangement, kindly made for us by one of our lovely patients. Inspired by the wisteria that grows at the front of our practice, the wonderful Anice from @opulenceandthebeetle had a brilliant idea to create a matching piece for inside – and we couldn’t love it more! A huge thank you for such a thoughtful and beautifully crafted addition to our space.
I began with the still life paintings of the Dutch Masters, creating with faux flowers designs inspired by their compositions which in reality never existed! I loved it. Soon I was branching out into less formal designs, especially bespoke arrangements for private clients, businesses and historic houses. I also exhibit at shows and fairs as my business grows and will soon be appearing in exhibitions. The future of faux flowers is an exciting one full of possibilities and I look forward to The Beetle finding new ways to meet them.
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Your Questions Answered
Are your arrangements realistic?
I take enormous pride in sourcing the highest quality stems and the majority of my suppliers only produce stems in colours and textures which are true to original flora. Some of my stems are ‘real touch’ which means they will convince even the hardest skeptic. Occasionally I will include artificial blooms in a non-authentic colour if I feel that they add interest to a design, but my only consistent exception to realism is Christmas when I let my imagination run wild. You’ll find splashes of gold, tiny baubles and even jewels included in these arrangements as I embrace the festive season and bring twinkle and sparkle to the shorter days.
Can I place my arrangement outside?
In short: only briefly (e.g. for a picnic). Whilst it is possible to source stems which have a high UV resistance, my arrangements are designed for use indoors and will be enjoyed to their greatest effect – and for many years to come – when kept out of direct sunlight for extended periods. There are simply too many beautiful plants which thrive in the elements for me to even try and compete outdoors.
How do I clean my arrangement?
Artificial flower arrangements are wonderfully low maintenance. A quick tickle from time to time with a feather duster is usually sufficient to keep them looking their best, or even a short blast with a hairdryer on cold.
What is a ‘centrepiece’?
A centrepiece arrangement is designed so that it can be enjoyed from all angles – with interesting colours and textures the whole way around. However, there is nothing stopping you from using a centrepiece in a corner, on a shelf or on a mantlepiece if you prefer. This gives you the happy option of rotating the arrangement from time to time for a new look.
Do you always use pre-loved vessels?
I love to use pre-loved vessels as they reduce my carbon footprint and bring an additional layer of interest and authenticity to my arrangements. Where possible I try to research the provenance of my vessels for those who are interested. However, sometimes I spot a new vessel which I know could be used to create a beautiful design and so I always make this clear in my descriptions.
Do you do weddings?
Not yet – but soon. One of the benefits of faux flowers is that availability is not restricted by the seasons, so I will soon be offering a specialist service for winter weddings.
Are the props in your photos for sale?
I create all my own photography and have collated a selection of cherished props for each season. Some of these are family treasures which I simply cannot part with, but if there is a specific item which has captured your heart then by all means drop me an email and we can have a discussion.
Am I pronouncing your name correctly?
Thanks for asking! The ‘i’ is pronounced as an ‘ee’, so think of it like ‘A-Niece’ rather than like ‘Alice’.