Wear It Like A Florist

Grab your spades – the Chelsea Flower Show is back for another year of show-stopping, cuting-edge designs and of course…lots and lots of flowers!

The return of one of our highly anticipated events also brings with it the desire to rediscover nature and get green-fingered! But, it’s not simply the urban environment or the exciting floral arrangements that are growing our inspiration this year. In fact, it’s the hard-working horticulturists working behind the scenes who got us thinking about other driven gardeners…

Do you remember last month, when we showed you the real heroes who make a difference to ordinary life? Well, this time we’re switching things up (while staying on the floral theme) and focusing on inspirational florists. To honour them, we’ve gifted them with a floral dress to match their passion!

So, without further ado, let’s meet them!

Shelley, Chalfont St. Giles – ‘Holly & Ivy’

Can you tell us a little bit about your business?

When I was fifteen I got my first Saturday job in a florist – I loved it! Not being very academic I knew I’d go down the creative route. So, when I left school, I went to college one day a week to study Floristry and worked the rest [of the time] in a shop.

I can honestly say I never dreaded going into work – even the greyest of days would be surrounded by colour. So, when I had my two gorgeous boys, I knew going back to neing employed by someone wasn’t going to work. But, I couldn’t quite give up the flowers, so ‘Holly & Ivy’ was formed! Nearly two years down the line, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made!

What’s your favourite occasion to make a bouquet for?

Weddings – I love every aspect of them! I feel flowers can add so much ‘wow’ to such a special day, and can be tailored to reflect the couple: each wedding is bespoke. You end up having quite a close bond with them too, especially if flowers are a big part of their day. It’s a very satisfying feeling when you’ve flowered a wedding.

My favourite flowers are very typical English country garden roses, hydrangeas and peonies!

How does the piece you’ve chosen make you feel?

I feel wonderful in my Yumi dress! The floral pattern and style [feels] like it’s been made for me: the fit is perfect. I feel elegant and don’t want to take it off! I may even wear it when I do my next wedding.

Georgie, Katie, Maria and Sam, Bristol – ‘Roots Floral Designs’

Georgie

Can you talk us through your daily routine?

Most days start the same, we get to the shop for eight. Luckily, we order the fresh flowers the day before to be delivered straight to the shop, so we don’t have to be up before dawn at the flower markets. We set up the show by creating the plant display outside using reclaimed crates, bicycles and other found objects to create height and interest.

How does the piece you’ve chosen make you feel?

I love the colour and shape of mine. It’s much more feminine and delicate than most of my wardrobe, and perfect for the weather we are having! I am looking forward to styling it up for a festival I am going to next week.

Katie

Can you tell us a little bit about your business?

Most of the week I work in an office. I love the time I get to spend working here learning Floristry – it’s such a beautiful contrast to sitting at a desk. I love how no two bouquets are the same and how the flowers, colours and foliage change with the seasons, always giving you something new to work with!

How does the piece you’ve chosen make you feel?

For a girl who almost exclusively wears monochrome, the print really works for me. Wearing a maxi dress always feels more special than my everyday choices! I love the movement and added drama the length brings to my overall silhouette!

Maria

What’s your favourite flower?

My fave flower is a garden rose: big, blousy and wild!

How does the piece you’ve chosen make you feel?

Outside of work, my jumpsuit can easily be dressed up or down and is so easy and comfortable to wear! I love the tie detail at the neck and it has pockets![!!] I’m going to wear it all summer long!

Sam

Can you tell me a little bit about your business?

I have been a florist for twelve years and had the shop here for five. Floristry is what I needed when I lost my creative head – it’s keeps me balanced.

How does the piece you’ve chosen make you feel?

My dress is easy to wear and makes me feel ready for action.