MAN OF THE MONTH: MARTY

Meet our Mr February - Marty, the man behind James Street Florist and 27 years of bouquets done properly.

Valentine’s week is his Olympics. His Grand Final. His personal endurance sport. And yet, between orchestrating hundreds of roses and fielding the annual “Do you have anything under $40?” requests, he made time to sit down with us.

Marty runs a tight ship. He believes flowers take time. He believes quality matters. And he definitely believes you should stop apologising for leaving it until the last minute. Beneath the no-nonsense exterior (and the world-class ranunculus colour-matching skills) is someone who genuinely cares about his craft, his customers, and this little pocket of James Street we’re lucky to call home.

When we popped him in the latest Calexico Man looks, (and gosh doesn’t he scrub up well I might add!)  he didn’t miss a beat already mentally on a post-Valentine’s escape in linen and loafers, somewhere coastal, spritz in hand, no one asking for “the cheapest bunch.” Even florists dream of holidays.

You’ve been on James Street for over 25 years. What’s kept you relevant — and the first stop for flowers?

“I’m one of the originals on James Street — over 25 years now. I think I’ve built a reputation for being no-nonsense, very direct and loyal. I say what I mean, I stand by what I do, and I look after my clients.” - Marty

Valentine’s is your biggest week of the year. What’s it really like behind the scenes?

“It’s a logistical challenge. We’re essentially trying to do two weeks’ worth of work in one day. It’s all about making sure everything happens exactly when it should.

Of course, it’s organised chaos and that’s part of the fun. This is my 27th Valentine’s, so the romance part left a little while ago… LOL.” - Marty

You see love in all its forms. What flower best captures modern romance?

“The easy answer is roses. They’re the diamonds of our industry.

But I love seeing clients choose something that reflects a personality, a favourite colour, or something a little different and unexpected. It’s about the time and thought that goes into choosing something for someone special.” - Marty

Trends change. What’s one floral style that will always be timeless?

“One flower type, en masse. The flower itself doesn’t matter — it’s about abundance. Masses of one variety create impact.

It works beautifully with hydrangeas, peonies or roses. Simple, generous and timeless.” - Marty

What do you love most about being part of the James Street community?

“The community is everything, whether it’s the other retailers and restaurants, the staff from those businesses, or our loyal regular clients.

I’ve done weddings for clients and now we’re creating formal flowers for their kids. Watching families grow up like that is a real privilege.” - Marty

We’ve styled you in Calexico Man — what’s your off-duty uniform when the apron comes off?

 “Pretty casual and pared back. Linen is a favourite and I don’t iron it at all. I don’t care if it looks crushed.

And a great pair of shoes. I do love shoes.” - Marty

Marty is proof that perfectionism and petals go very well together.

He may raise an eyebrow at your flower indecision, but he’ll also hand-wrap the most beautiful bouquet you’ve ever seen. That’s just how he does things - properly, thoughtfully, and with over two decades of muscle memory behind every stem.

Next time you walk past James Street Florist, don’t be shy, step inside. Say hello. Ask a question. Try not to panic-order.

He’s part of what makes James Street special - and we’re very proud he’s ours.

This Valentine’s Day, we’re raising a very well-earned glass to one of the originals. A man who’s helped shape the rhythm, beauty and bloom of our street.

And if he smirks when he reads this?
We’ll take that as a standing ovation. 🌹

Nicky Xx