Our Story
East Cape Protea & Fynbos is set on the Cliffs of the Kap River, at L’Aquila Lodge.
Here we have a dedicated venue, with spectacular views and bespoke natural surroundings offering a blend of elegance and nature unlike any other.
The versatility of the venue makes it a stunning location. which can be hired for any function from a wedding to a corporate workshop or private birthday party.
Whilst specializing in Protea and Fynbos we offer a wide selection of all blooms grown by our farmers here in the wild and beautiful Eastern Cape and transform every bloom into a well crafted exquisite floral design that bring elegance and emotion to life.
Each creation is designed with care, capturing the essence of nature and the unique spirit of every occasion.
Our Philosophy
Our philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for nature and a love for the artistry of flowers. We believe every bloom has its own story, and we take pride in working thoughtfully with the seasons to create arrangements that feel authentic and alive.We are dedicated to sustainability – sourcing locally whenever possible to reduce our carbon footprint and strengthen our community. By supporting local growers and using eco-friendly materials, we aim to protect the environment while sharing the natural beauty of South Africa’s flora with care and purpose.
Susan Read
The Owner
For Susan Read, flowers have always been part of life’s rhythm – from childhood days spent in the garden to a career that has spanned more than a decade in floral design. Her journey began with a simple love for nature and the quiet joy that comes from working with her hands, turning stems and petals into something beautiful and meaningful.
Over the past eleven years, Susan has honed her craft, learning the art of balance – between colour and texture, structure and wildness, elegance and authenticity. In 2021, her dream took root with the founding of East Cape Protea & Fynbos, a floral studio inspired by the landscapes and natural beauty of the Eastern Cape.
For Susan, every arrangement is a reflection of her journey – grounded in passion, guided by experience, and inspired by the people and places around her. She continues to hand-select each bloom with care, working closely with local growers and embracing sustainable practices that honour both the environment and her community.
What began as a love for flowers has grown into something much deeper – a way to share joy, tell stories, and celebrate life through the simple, timeless beauty of nature.
Our Approach
At East Cape Protea, the day begins in the early hours of the morning with every farmer and grower hand picking each bloom to ensure the freshest, most beautiful flowers for our designs. Every stem is carefully chosen for its quality, colour, and character, reflecting the natural beauty of our Eastern Cape surroundings.
Working closely with local growers allows us to source sustainably and support our community, while maintaining the high standard our customers have come to love. Back at our studio, every arrangement is crafted with care and creativity, blending texture, balance, and colour to bring each vision to life.
