Meet Jessica

The Lucas Studio’s Founder and Creative Director, Jessica Lucas, is the subject of our latest post. Filmed at home, in the TLS studio, we’ve asked her questions from the sublime to the silly, about work and play, and what makes The Lucas Studio so special.

Read below, to discover everything from her vast collection of weird and wonderful ‘things’ to her famous ‘Saturday Sandwich’ and what’s in store for The Lucas Studio this year.

What brings you joy?

All of the things I collect. Vases, ceramics, weird and wonderful bits and pieces found in charity and antique shops, markets and from incredible makers around world. A recent favourite is a ceramic horse I bought on a trip to Puglia.

Where do you find inspiration?

In all of these amazing things. It’s a collection of fun pieces that I find and keep, often referring back to them sparking moments of inspiration. The Alligator Parade stationery was inspired by illustrations in AA Milne’s Winnie The Pooh, and I recently found a beautiful 1950’s Rupert The Bear annual, which I’m sure will work its way into something soon.

Describe The Lucas Studio style

Anything goes! Well, almost anything... We put our clients at the heart of their flowers/creations, so the key to our imagination always starts with them. Then I draw from my collection of weird and wonderful things to take their ideas to the next level.

It’s always a very collaborative process, between us, our client, event planners, collaborators etc…. First comes the mad idea part, then the concepting part, how we can achieve this, make it work within a budget etc… and then it’s down to all the talented people we work with to turn our dreams into a reality.

However, if you had to pin me down, I’d say The Lucas Studio is imaginative, creative and always a celebration of floral heritage and traditional techniques.

What does The Lucas Studio look for in a collaborator?

Imagination. Ideas. Creativity. There’s no wrong answer. Just say what you think - we want to hear it. They’d also definitely be the type of person that would live in Lucas Land.

What do you love most about collaborating with like-minded creatives?

Seeing what’s possible, how we can push ourselves, stepping out of our comfort zones, and having a lot of fun in the process.

What excites you most at the start of a project?

The anticipation of filling a blank canvas. It’s an opportunity to really create some TLS magic! It’s the most imaginative part of the process. Coming up with fun ideas are the best bit!

Who would be your dream client?

Paris Hilton. I met her once and she was so nice. I would love to create a Land for Paris - that would be totally insane.

Aside from flowers, what’s your favourite medium to work with?

I often produce watercolours to get ideas out of my head and onto paper, and I find that really enjoyable and helpful for my creative process. Aside from painting, we had a lot of fun creating the Alligator Parade stationery for a recent wedding, and of course the stationery for the Lucas Land box of cards. But I was also in awe of the steel structures we created with Julian Carter Design for Hakkasan over Chinese New Year.

What is your ‘spirit’ flower?

Ooooh, tough one, but it really depends on the season. In the springtime I love rare narcissi, over summer it’s all about the sweet pea, in the autumn months I can’t resist a chunky dahlia and during the festive season it has to be pine.

Is there a ‘typical’ day in your life?

No, no two days are the same, ever.

 Describe your perfect day

Well, on some days it could just be sitting on the sofa watching TV and doing nothing! Generally though, my perfect day is when we have an exciting job to do. Starting bright and early at the flower market, working with the team, playing with the flowers, experimenting with colours and building the job. Seeing everything come together is always so inspiring and motivating.  

What would go in a ‘The Lucas’ sandwich?

I have a very specific ‘Saturday sandwich’. It’s a toasted ciabatta with a slick of garlic mayo, filled with southern fried chicken, raw red onion and a couple of slices of avocado, topped with crispy onions and a sprinkling of smoked salt.

What, without fail, makes you laugh out loud?

I’m really sorry, but it’s if someone falls over. I can’t not laugh. Except if it’s on a job, then I go into full panic mode to make sure the person is ok! At home, hilarious… At work, not funny at all.  

If you had to choose - shoes or flowers? (be honest!)

Gahhhh, I just don’t know! It would have to be flowers. If I didn’t have flowers I wouldn’t be able to buy shoes, would I? They are my weakness…

If you could be let loose in any shop/store, what would it be and what would you grab?

It has to be Selfridges, and I’d grab all the things I can’t afford. Amazing gowns, Alexander McQueen dresses, Versace shoes. I’d do my absolute best.

Where is your favourite place or Land?

The Highlands. I have friends up there and visit as often as I can.

What’s the next Land on your travel hit list?

Peru. Although I have to admit, it’s not to do all the hiking stuff… I’d love to stay at the beautiful Belmond hotels and go shopping at the treasure trove of boutiques and markets there.

Who would you take to live in Lucas Land?

My dog, Rocket. We pretty much live in Lucas Land all day everyday anyway!

Is it Rocky that really calls the shots?

Definitely. He stamps his paws and always gets what he wants.

Where in the world would you love to create some TLS magic?

I’d love to do something in Stellenbosch in South Africa. It’s so beautiful there. You’re surrounded by the most incredible flora and fauna, and I think it would inspire something really special.

What steps does The Lucas Studio take to reduce its environmental impact?

We are always mindful of our environmental impact with every job and do what we can to reduce it. From avoiding waste, sourcing locally, using second hand props, choosing recycled and/or recyclable materials, creating foam-free arrangements etc… We’re learning ways to improve every day, and are committed to doing the best we can.

What charities does The Lucas Studio support?

After a serendipitous meeting, which you can read more about on Lucas Land, we became involved with the Royal Trinity Hospice last year, donating wedding flowers for a patient’s special day. This year we aim to raise £8,000 for their incredible work. As part of our fundraising, all profits from the Lucas Land box of cards, go to Royal Trinity Hospice.

Read more about our Royal Trinity Hospice story.

Make a donation.

What’s in store for The Lucas Studio this year?

Lots of exciting new collaborations and beautiful weddings in both the UK and abroad. And, there will, of course, be lots more storytelling and fun things happening on Lucas Land.

You can catch more of this interview on our Instagram.