our standard

IF NOT NOW, WHEN?

Melanie Harstad is the heart and soul of House of Harstad. A former attorney with a distinguished 25-year career, Melanie’s journey from corporate success to creative entrepreneurship is as inspiring as it is authentic. Growing up immersed in nature, she was profoundly influenced by her father, Larry Dahlberg, a legendary fishing guide and global celebrity in the angling community. Melanie’s early experiences in the wilderness taught her resilience, creativity, and the magic of the natural world.

Custom Preserved Arrangements

TAILORED TO YOUR UNIQUE VISION

At House of Harstad, we believe in creating pieces that reflect your personal style while embracing our signature blend of bold naturalism and refined luxury.

Through personalized consultations, Melanie works intimately with each client to select the perfect composition of preserved florals, drawing inspiration from your interior palette, architectural elements, and lifestyle aspirations.

LEARN MORE

KIND WORDS

""I wholeheartedly recommend Melanie at House of Harstad! A true artist, she masterfully curates floral arrangements that are nothing short of breathtaking. Drawing inspiration from her childhood spent immersed in the beauty of nature and wildlife, Melanie artfully pairs exquisite florals to craft stunning works of art that resonate with life and vibrancy."

Customer Name

"House of Harstad isn’t just florals—it’s storytelling in bloom. As someone who typically leans into neutrals, I’ve found myself unexpectedly embracing color—drawn in by the layers, textures, and meaning woven into each preserved piece. I now own several of her works, including the Romeo & Juliet book arrangement, which sits on my library shelf like a story in itself—timeless, poetic, and quietly powerful. Some were bespoke, made for my vases. Others from her ready-made collections. All of them require no care—just presence."

Ashley Benson

"I've had the pleasure of gifting several of her meticulously designed pieces to my clients, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The use of preserved flowers ensures these elegant creations endure for years, serving as lasting reminders of my heartfelt appreciation. For anyone seeking unique and meaningful gifts that embody both beauty and sentiment, Melanie's creations are truly exceptional choices."

Customer Name

"My clients were thrilled to take the bouquets home and even reached out to me for her number to place orders for themselves. Melanies creativity and knowledge of botanicals are next level.I am so grateful for her unique approach to arrangements and find my discerning clients reaction to the arrangements said it all Truly fabulous!"

Customer Name

"Melanie has a rare gift: she intuitively creates pieces that feel made just for you. Her designs don’t just decorate a space—they invite you to feel, to remember, to dream. The entire process is a return to wonder—a little whimsical, a little magical, and entirely joyful. For anyone who values thoughtful brands, meaningful design, and timeless beauty—House of Harstad is a treasure."

Dixie D'Amelio

"I first collaborated with Melanie on a 40th birthday gift for a dear friend. I had brought a Baccarat vase and we spent the afternoon together, talking, laughing, and reflecting on who the gift was for. She asked thoughtful questions, learning not just about my friend but about me too. We explored the look, the feel, the mood we wanted to create. But it was Melanie who made the magic happen. What she designed was effortless and elegant, classic, couture, and deeply personal. The process felt like a gift in itself."

Customer Name

"Melanie's work is truly exceptional. I had hired her to make floral arrangements for me for my business to gift my top clients as a gift with purchase . The flowers she used in my clients bouquets were exceptional and very creative, a mix of feminine and the unexpected . For me and my business I wanted something truly unique and out of the world gorgeous and Melanie delivered ."