I often get asked how is it that I decided to start working with flowers… I have always been an artist: a painter, and opera singer. Yet, I wanted to find an art form where I could utilize all 5 senses.

I found floral design which not only is a mixed media art form that is not limited by any boundaries, but also, it permits the exploration of flowers’ different textures, colors, smells, shapes, sizes, to create true living sculptures.

Aside from my love for flowers and art, I also have a passion for children and education. I have a Master’s degree in Education from Harvard, and focused my work in the Arts in Education. Thus came my inspiration to start the Monica Hirsch School, where I pass on the gift of creating with flowers by offering floral design courses to children, teens and adults. Working with flowers is therapeutic and contagious…those who participate in my courses come away with a feeling of renewed awareness and appreciation of nature and the beauty that surrounds us. I learned Floral Design formally from Master Florists Paula Pryke and Jane Packer in London.

Inspiration for the floral designs comes from the simple sensorial moments in life: the scents of flowers, a child at play, the sounds of laughter, the touch of a loving pet or the taste of homemade bread. It comes from my travels, the streets, the markets, the smells of the earth, the colors of landscapes and from the extraordinary people that I meet every day. Throughout my site you will be able to see some of this inspiration. They are ideas about life, to celebrate the good moments it offers.

I am inspired by Brazil, where I was born and raised. I design with tropical flowers, vibrant colors and with the contemporary architectural style of my hometown, Sao Paulo.

I am inspired by the energy of New York. I am inspired by the creative hub that is New York City and for the possibilities that I have here to stretch my imagination and others, with cutting-edge aesthetics.

International life experiences have influenced my design. I studied culinary arts at the Ritz in Paris, and worked in Australia as a teacher. All of my experiences combined make the Monica Hirsch design unique and the Monica Hirsch School a special environment in which to learn.

The books, toys, candles etc that are for sale on the site, were carefully chosen to accompany my flowers as part of the gift. Each of the items asks that you contact those powerful, often forgotten, emotive wonders – the five senses. Despite not designed by me, the gifts that complement the flowers are all items that have delighted my 5 senses, and thus I have decided to share with you.

This site bears my name because I give all of me in every arrangement I create. I trust that the Monica Hirsch Flowers and Gifts will enchant you and delight the senses of those receiving.