Amidst farmers markets and studio time, a unique art form is blossoming, capturing the ephemeral beauty of flowers and preserving them for ongoing adoration. At the forefront of this craft is Eli Koepfer, the creative force behind Terrarium de Fleurs.
Originally from Romania, Koepfer's journey to Reno was serendipitous, guided by her husband's career. Before diving into the art world, she navigated the challenging landscape of job applications and interviews, a process ridden with anxiety and uncertainty. During this period, she freelanced with established marketing clients, but it wasn't until she stumbled upon a few TikTok videos on flower pressing that her artistic passion was truly ignited.
"I was always drawn to art and creativity," Koepfer reflects. "But my marketing background helped me reach the right audience and begin to sell my art."
After Koepfer began producing resin jewelry and wall art, she signed up for the Riverside Farmer's Market on a whim, with the help of her husband and her father. The supportive community of vendors and attendees (who show up rain or shine) became a cornerstone of her success. Her Instagram following has since grown to 16,000 and counting, with posts documenting her artistic evolution and even the story behind her business's name—a nod to a music playlist curated by her husband.
Entirely self-taught, Koepfer often turns to platforms like YouTube and TikTok, immersing herself in the world of flower preservation.
In September 2024, she transitioned to embracing the floral business full-time and featuring local suppliers wherever possible. Terrarium de Fleurs now offers a diverse array of creations, from resin pendants and handmade paper greeting cards to the meticulous preservation of wedding bouquets in custom-made frames. The process involves deconstructing, drying, flattening, and artfully reconstructing each arrangement with utmost care. While roses are popular choices, they are notably time-consuming to press, requiring attention to each petal. White roses, in particular, demand additional effort, as Koepfer paints and recolors each one to ensure longevity. Her personal favorite is pressing greens, which offer a varied texture and depth to her compositions.
To share her passion and skills, Koepfer conducts workshops, inviting others to explore the art of flower preservation, providing necessary materials and guidance, ensuring participants leave with a tangible piece of art and a newfound appreciation for the craft.
Koepfer's dedication to continuous growth is evident in her willingness to experiment and innovate. She believes that trying new things is essential to maintaining her drive, passion, and engagement with her art. "I love everything about what I do," Koepfer shares, acknowledging that returning to a traditional job would be challenging after immersing herself fully in her creative endeavors.
Through Terrarium de Fleurs, Eli Koepfer not only preserves the fleeting beauty of nature but also cultivates a community where art and life intertwine.