Why did you decide to be a florist? 

To be creative every day and to handle the most beautiful products in the world. I’ve always enjoyed working in retail and can’t imagine doing anything else now! 

How did you start? 

It was 16 years ago and started after studying business and management. I fell ill and was unable to complete my degree and I had to cancel my university place from my hospital bed. It was pretty devastating. During a year of surgery and recouperation, I decided to dip back into something I had dabbled in during my school years, where I had been on the local Church flower rota!

I found a fantastic college course in Wiltshire and signed up! I completed my Level 3 & 4 over the following two years and opened my shop in Glastonbury between the two years, it was a baptism of fire! I’ve had the shop for 15 years now, and I’ve loved every minute of it! 

What’s the best part of your job? 

Touching the most precious moments in peoples’ lives; from births to marriages, from farewells to new homes, we mark the milestones with beautiful flowers. 

What’s the worst part? 

Navigating the difficulties all small business owners face; from accounting to marketing, but they’re fleeting growing pains in comparison to the joy flowers bring. The other issue is the allergies many of us have to deal with; my hands really suffer. A doctor told me I should change career, but let’s be honest, that’s never going to happen! 

Why do you think National Florist Day is important 

It’s an incredible moment to celebrate the passionate, talented hard-working people, the incredible flowers and combined beauty this synergy puts out into the world every single day. 

What would you say to another florist thinking about getting involved in NFD? 

Join the family! Be part of something bigger than just you and your business. We all need to celebrate and support one another, now more than ever. 

Why should someone consider a career in floristry? 

It’s completely addictive, intoxicating and fun! No two days are ever the same and nothing gives you a thrill like creating something from scratch, over and over and over.