Seven years ago I took a deep breath, left the security of a blue chip company and plunged into the exciting world of freelance design.
My job is now as varied as picking branches of tea from a plantation in Kenya for use in a bouquet to arranging flowers for a photo shoot in South London. I never switch off from looking for new ideas and find inspiration from the most unexpected places. It can come from the chaotic way that nature mixes her colours or from the carefully chosen shades of a fashion colour palette. I remember once catching sight of some beautiful coloured shoes whilst walking through the Souks in Marrakech, needless to say I quickly scribbled down my sketches and notes. The shoes inspired a summer bouquet in shades of pink and red all wrapped up in sky blue and grass green tissue paper.
It's not only colour that inspires new designs, quite often a seasonal flower or foliage will work its magic and give a whole new look to an arrangement. Flowers like clothes also work well with accessories. A splash of colour from a wrap of organza or tissue paper transforms a bouquet as a stylish belt or scarf transforms a dress.
I am fortunate that with my work comes travel. As well as the magical Kenya this can be trawling the flower auctions of Holland, visiting the interior shows in Paris or checking out the latest flower shop in Berlin. My job has also taken me to Ireland, Italy, South Africa, Morocco and the States.
Two years ago I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to launch my own branded range. The range features some of my favourite flowers and colour combinations along with coordinating accessories. The designs are distinctive, colourful and stylish. They are great for birthdays, anniversaries or even just to say thank you and they all arrive beautifully arranged and ready to enjoy.
The positive effect of flowers is two fold. They can transform the human spirit whilst at the same time lighten the mood in an otherwise lifeless room. They are followers of fashion and take their lead from both the catwalk and home interiors. It is a truly wonderful experience to be given a gift of flowers.
THE DETAIL
- City and Guilds in Floral Art.
- Currently living in North West London with my 2 beautiful girls aged 11 and 14.
- I was employed by a well known high street store for 8 years to design their flower range and left in 2001 to go freelance.
- Since becoming freelance I have designed flower ranges for a number of major multiples in the UK.
- I have been commissioned to work on various projects for magazines including Essentials, Waitrose Seasons, She, Sunday Express S magazine and Ideal Home.
- My products have been featured in the Observer, Sunday Mirror, Ideal Home, Marie Claire and the Evening Standard.
- I have taught floral design
- My work also involves flowers projects for weddings and parties.