Saturday 6 May was always going to be a big day for Shane Connolly.
He was planning to mark a significant birthday but the go-to royal florist gladly put his party plans on hold when he was invited to play an important in a national celebration.
He has masterminded the floral backdrop for images that will go down in history.
Born and brought up in west Belfast, this floral designer is no stranger to royal events and national celebrations.
He arranged the flowers for the wedding of King Charles III and Camilla, the Queen Consort in St George's Chapel, Windsor, in 2005.
In 2011 his services were called upon again for the wedding of the Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales at Westminster Abbey.
Homegrown products
His cut-flower philosophy chimes perfectly with the long-established eco credentials of the King.
Mr Connolly will only use flowers and foliage that are seasonal and local and for the Coronation; this material will be sourced from every part of the UK.
For the Royal Warrant holder, the event is an opportunity to showcase the beauty of what can be grown in these islands.
"A big event like a wedding or a coronation can get across to people that you don't have to be too clever," he told BBC's Gardeners' Corner programme.
His cut-flower philosophy chimes perfectly with the long-established eco credentials of the King.
Mr Connolly will only use flowers and foliage that are seasonal and local and for the Coronation; this material will be sourced from every part of the UK.
For the Royal Warrant holder, the event is an opportunity to showcase the beauty of what can be grown in these islands.
"A big event like a wedding or a coronation can get across to people that you don't have to be too clever," he told BBC's Gardeners' Corner programme.
'You are dealing with a family'
