So, how did a classically-trained dancer end up running her own floral design studio? “Really, the two are related”, says Christina Andersen, who originally came to New York City to further her professional dance studies and career, “both dance and floral design are about shapes and forms—one using the body, the other, flowers.” A surprising number of ex-dancers become florists—and Christina got her first florist job in a former dancer’s flower shop. “Floral design employs a real hands-on, apprenticeship training experience--again, like dance”, she comments. Christina worked her way up, learning her new art in some of Manhattan’s top shops.

Finally, after a year as Manager and Head Designer at an upscale Midtown Manhattan establishment, she decided to go out on her own. Christina Andersen Floral Design began in 1998 out of her home in Hoboken, NJ. Soon outgrowing that arrangement, she found an ideal workspace in the Monroe Center for the Arts at 720 Monroe Street in Hoboken. She describes her style as “classic European, striving for an elegant yet contemporary look, emphasizing unique colors and textures. But I always work closely with my clients to give them just the effect they want, whether in fresh, silk, or dried flowers.”

Her client list has expanded with each passing year, and includes corporate and restaurant weekly accounts, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, plus numerous weddings, corporate functions and events. She also takes orders for more intimate settings such as dinner parties and individual arrangements. Finally, Christina sells flower-related gifts such as handmade pottery and her own pre-made dried arrangements. There seems to be something for everyone from this long time Hoboken resident.

Christina Andersen Floral Design is located in Studio E506 at 720 Monroe Street in Hoboken, NJ. The telephone number is 201.401.9349. Hours by appointment.