by sarah • July 3, 2015 • Suppliers
Hello and welcome to our third ‘supplier focus’ blog, which lets you see the people behind the companies that we recommend. This month is the turn of the fabulous florist ‘Green Earth Flowers’.
Green Earth Flowers was formed by Laura Taylor in 2006, after her successful career working for a contemporary furniture design company in London. Laura retrained in floristry and delights in going above and beyond for her clients in the creation of contemporary designs with top quality sourced flowers. Green Earth Flowers has been included in the ‘Good Florist Guide’ for the past three years, and it is no wonder when their striking designs and personal service are the core foundation of their business.
See what Laura had to say when asked your questions……
What is your company motto and/or mission statement?
Mission statements aren’t really our thing, but I would say that the flowers are definitely in charge in our world. The natural materials we use always dictate the final designs that we create – we always try and work seasonally and with nature, rather than overly manipulating or controlling the flowers too much, resulting in a very natural, rustic and loose style which we have become known for.
How did you get into your profession?
I’ve always been a creative person, and studied architecture at university. After working in London for a contemporary furniture design company for about 5 years, I decided to move back up north, with the aim to start my own creative business. Flowers and gardens had always interested me, so I took the plunge and went back to college to study floristry. After gaining some hands-on experience in other shops, the opportunity to open my own place came along, which was almost 9 years ago now.
What motivates you to work hard?
Most people don’t realise the amount of work that goes into “playing with flowers”! It’s actually a very unglamorous job, but you become involved in some of the most significant events in people’s lives – romance, weddings, births, celebrations, deaths. Being a part of that is so special, and to know that you have made someone happy with your flowers is amazing. I think the most touching thing is when a bride cries (in a good way!) when you present her with the bouquet you have created just for her – it’s a very special moment and makes all the hard work worthwhile!
Professionally, what is your proudest accomplishment?
Keeping going! My shop is in Poynton village, and a few years ago the whole place was engulfed in roadworks for over 2 years, as well as being in a recession. Although with hindsight it was all worth it and has transformed the place, at the time it was very tough to keep the business going – all the local businesses suffered and it was the hardest thing I have ever had to do.
I’m also proud to have developed my own style over the years, and found the confidence to realise that not everyone gets what we do. There are so many different styles of floristry out there, and so many different customers with different tastes – fortunately the vast majority of our brides and grooms come to us because they love our flowers, and we feel so privileged to be part of their special day.
What is the best thing about working with Heaton House Events?
Heaton House Farm is a unique venue, and every wedding we have done there has been totally different. Having such a blank canvas to work with allows couples to put their own stamp and style on their wedding day so it can truly reflect their personalities. Flowers can play a massive part in setting the tone and style for a wedding, so it’s always good to be let loose on a venue like HHF!
Do you have a top tip for clients?
What was your first job?
Silver service waitress while at sixth form – a good start in customer service experience.
Do you have a party trick?
Not really, but I am very good at making macarons!
That’s Laura founder of Green Earth Flowers. Thank you for the great tips you have given us Laura and it’s brilliant to see where your wonderful customer service stems from (pardon the pun).
If you’d like to take a look at our list of talented recommended suppliers, then head to our website at https://heatonhousefarm.co.uk/weddings/your-supplier-directory/ and click on the category you are looking for. Or alternatively for inspiration, follow us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Pinterest.
For any advice on coordinating a wedding, general or corporate event then head to the Heaton House Events website to talk to our award-winning team.
Keep reading our Heaton House Farm blog for the next instalment of the ‘Supplier Focus’, as we bring you one of our recommended cake makers!