About Nadine

Welcome, I’m Nadine.

After 30+ years in this beautiful industry, my passion for floristry is deeper than ever — especially as I work to help redefine what it means to be a florist in today’s world.

As a proud Sustainable Floristry Advocate, earth-conscious design and sustainable practices are the threads that run through everything I do.

I believe sustainable thinking supports a thriving future — for people, businesses, and our precious natural environment. And in an industry so deeply rooted in nature, shouldn't we be leading the way?

From within my ivy-entwined greenhouse on Dharawal Country, in the NSW Southern Highlands — a place my family and I cherish deeply — I connect with students, members and mentees through both online courses and in-person events.

It’s here I guide passionate florists on their journey toward creating a floral business that’s not only successful, but soul-aligned, sustainable, and truly their own.

The path that led me here

My first flower memory is of sitting on my grandmother’s potting bench, tucked inside her glasshouse, surrounded by orchids. I remember thinking, “These flowers must be so special… they have a whole house made just for them.”

That quiet wonder has stayed with me ever since — a thread that’s guided me through every chapter of my floral life.

From formal training, to opening my first shop Wildflower at 23, selling it 10 years later to focus on weddings and events (while raising two beautiful babes), and then returning to the classroom — this time as an educator — to ignite what became a 17-year teaching career.

Each step has brought me here, to this moment — where it all comes together in The Ivy Institute.

I understand the many challenges and models we explore as florists. I also understand the heart of this work — how it connects us to nature, allows us to express beauty, and can become a meaningful, sustainable business when rooted in authenticity.

The Ivy Institute is my offering to you — the designer, the nature-lover, the florist ready to grow something of their own, in full bloom and on purpose.

Ways we can work together

Working alongside florists — whether you're just starting out, already established, or growing from the field as a farmer florist — truly lights me up.

I love supporting creatives like you to find the clarity you’ve been craving, expand beyond your business goals, and elevate your skills — not just in design, but in how you run your business.

Because while artistry is at the heart, building a business that’s profitable, sustainable, and aligned with your values? That’s where the real magic happens.

Curious about how The Ivy Institute can support and inspire you? Take a moment to explore our vast array of Resources, Courses, Events & Mentoring packages, or if you’re ready to dive in and see how we can work together, I’d love to connect. Click the Let’s Chat button below to book your free connection call.

LET'S CHAT

Our Values | Mission | Impact

At The Ivy Institute we adhere to our values of being a Sustainably & Ethically driven business with a strong focus on sharing this ethos though education, practical application & messaging. We have a Bring Floristry Back to Nature approach within our design education encouraging purposeful design with respect for the wellness of the planet. We promote community over competition & create a space of shared wisdom & equality. We believe in the power of partnering with other business that share the same values to strengthen & spread the word.
Our mission at The Ivy Institute is to honour our values as a purpose led and earth conscious business and are driven to create positive & lasting change within the floral based industry through our Mission & Impact. Our Founder Nadine Brown approaches her career with a never stop learning attitude ensuring her members & clients are receiving the latest design & business guidance along with helping others to create a business that is aligned and reflects their own values.
Through our values & mission we aim to lead the way in Sustainable & earth conscious floral design & business practices. We also actively work with each & every client who we mentor & educate to create a business that is sustainable in every way, economically, environmentally & ethically.
Our give back program for:
2022 - Reforest Now - donating $5 for every booking and Greenhouse member.
2023 - Offering 3 x Scholarships for The Ivy Institute’s membership offering The Greenhouse valued at over $1200 each.
2024 - Monthly ‘pay what you feel’ Community Classes in the Ivy Greenhouse. FREE seasonal online masterclasses & more to come….