James Stevens is a florist who has been working alongside peonies, roses, lilies and all other types of colourful buds throughout his life – first beginning as a teenager working in his father's floristry business in Sydney/Warrane's Town Hall and now running his own business delivering flowers all across the country: Mr Roses.

We were lucky enough to share a quick chinwag with James, where we gabbed all the ins and outs inside behind working as a florist, what flowers are best for each occasion and how flowers can give a helping hand to our mental health.

What do you enjoy most about your work as a florist? Floristry is, above all, a feel-good business. There’s something really special about providing a product that makes people happy. It’s a quiet, enduring way of sharing emotions – and in this world, we all need more of that. It’s a powerful reminder that we can find joy and comfort in simple things, and I love knowing that we’re part of those heartfelt moments. 

When did Mr. Roses come to life, and what inspired its creation? Mr Roses came to life in 2020, but it’s really the culmination of over 40 years of my experience in the industry. After building one of Australia’s largest floral businesses and then stepping away for a bit, I felt the pull to return to my roots. That’s when I decided to launch Mr Roses – bringing all the knowledge I’d gained over the years back into play. The goal was to offer the finest roses, meticulously prepared and delivered, with the same passion I’ve had since day one.

Why do you think roses have been cherished throughout history? Roses are timeless. They’ve been symbols of love, beauty, and celebration throughout history. They’re versatile in meaning and have an unmatched elegance that resonates across cultures and generations. What makes them special is that they carry so many emotions – whether it’s love, gratitude, sympathy, or friendship. It’s quite amazing how one flower can embody so many different things for people. That’s why roses remain beloved – they capture feelings we sometimes can’t put into words.

What is it about roses that resonates with you personally? For me, roses are unmatched in their beauty and variety. No other flower comes in such vibrant colours or has such a high petal count. The way they bloom is mesmerising, and with modern advancements in breeding we’re able to get even better varieties that last longer and look more impressive. On a personal level, there’s just something about a rose that feels iconic, almost eternal. It’s a classic.

You mention that flowers can positively impact mental health. Can you elaborate on this? The simple act of sending or receiving flowers can instantly brighten someone’s day, whether they’re celebrating or going through a tough time. Rutgers University conducted a study that demonstrated how flowers can boost mood, reduce stress and even improve social interactions. Additionally, a Harvard Medical School study showed that flowers in the home can help relieve anxiety and depression, making us feel more relaxed and engaged. 

Studies aside, I am also speaking from first-hand experience! It’s remarkable how something as simple as a bouquet can have such a positive effect on our wellbeing. After years in the floristry industry, I’ve seen firsthand how much joy a beautiful arrangement can bring. Flowers are more than just a gesture; they’re a powerful tool for connection and care. I truly believe that if more people sent flowers – not just on special occasions but as a way to show appreciation and support – we’d see a much brighter and more connected world. Flowers offer that little boost we all need from time to time, especially in today’s fast-paced world where mental health support is more important than ever.

What flowers are best suited for different occasions, and why? Different flowers and colours work for different occasions. Roses, of course, are perfect for love and romance –especially red ones. But if you’re looking for something more lighthearted, yellow roses or sunflowers can signify friendship and joy. Mr Roses also offers tulips, lilies, and seasonal blooms like peonies, which are great for unique, special moments.

For sympathy or new beginnings, white roses are always a thoughtful choice. The key is choosing blooms that reflect the sentiment you want to express, and we make sure there’s something for everyone at Mr Roses, no matter the occasion. And honestly, no matter what the occasion, flowers can remind us of the beauty around us – even if it’s just for a moment.

Check out more of what Mr Roses offers by taking a gander at their website over here.