Why did you decide to be a florist? 

I fell into Floristry! I was looking for a Saturday job, started in the local florists at 13 years old, and never really left the industry after that. I did go to university and gained a BA Hons in Media, whilst continuing to work in flower shops.  I had a one-year break where I got a desk job in a local newspaper, but it didn’t take me long to realise where my passion was so went back to my roots and opened my own shop in 2002.  

How did you start? 

I’ve been a florist for 33 years, 22 of those being owner of Flowers by Karen.  My job gives me huge satisfaction and I love how varied each day can be. I have been lucky enough to have had many opportunities within our industry and worked along some amazing designers. 

Being part of design teams for large installations has given me so much confidence and I learned so much which was transferable to my business and ultimately my employees. I am now an Ambassador for OASIS® Floral Products, and a Council member of the Good Florist Guide.   

What’s the best part of the job? 

My favourite part is having the opportunity to share emotional connections through flowers. We have tried really hard over the past 22 years to build connections and relationships with our customers, and it is wonderful to see them return again and again.  We have had families who have used our services for their wedding, for the birth of their children and for the loss of a loved one.  It’s really lovely to see that we have built a meaningful relationship with them, and they trust our business.  

What’s the worst part? 

Not really sure there is one, I feel very lucky to be able to do what I love every day.  

Why do you think National Florist Day is important?  

It’s an opportunity for all florists no matter how big or small to shout about their business and the Day to celebrate and promote to their own customers.  To be part of a celebratory and collaborative industry voice to celebrate and promote to our customers is amazing.   

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

Get involved, and become part of a collective celebration, Florists all over the UK will be flying the flag for National Florist Day and using it as an amazing opportunity to promote their own businesses to their customers. 

Why should someone consider a career in floristry? 

Job satisfaction is a huge bonus when working with flowers, knowing that what you have created has made someone smile or made their day a little bit easier.  A career in floristry doesn’t have to just be retail, shop work. There are so many opportunities out there for people who want it.