Ren MacDonald-Balasia of Renko Floral is known for her exquisitely vibrant, and at times otherworldly flower arrangements that often blend foraged elements with cultivated botanicals. Ren's artistic approach emerged organically from her experiences growing up in Hawaii, where “the landscape was also my family,” she recalls. In addition to being always immersed in the lush nature around her, Ren was also immersed in a creative, artistic community from an early age. Her mother a painter, her father a filmmaker, and her grandmother, perhaps the most significant influence of all, is a writer who Ren describes as experimental and inquisitive.

Contrary to the idyllic image of life in Hawaii often portrayed in the media, life for locals can be challenging. Ren’s family and community knew how to create and experience beauty within their own means, a skill that has profoundly shaped her creative approach, including her foraging practice.

She starts by walking around to see what draws her attention, looking for what appears fresh and vibrant—perhaps something seasonal or, if she’s lucky, something she’s never seen before. She mentions a recent find: strawberries on a long stem with shades of acid green, pink, blush, and orange. “I don’t generally have any other starting point because I feel like that’s the most organic way to come up with something … I have to find excitement in that one thing first.” Once she has that first spark, she lets the colors and shapes inspire her vision.