Meet talented local florists to help plan your big day HAND-PICKEDbunch NICOLA WRIGHT, OWNER THE WRIGHT CHOICE How long have you been a wedding florist, when did your passion begin? I’ve been a florist for more than 25 years and I’ve wanted to be one for as long as I can remember! I found an old primary school book a few years back showing my drawings of a flower shop with me behind the counter. The statement read ‘Nicola aged nearly 9, I want to be a florist’. I started to work as a Saturday girl in a beautiful flower shop from the age of 14. I became a junior when I left school and worked my way up to management over the years. I was very fortunate to have worked for an incredibly talented florist and businesswoman. Their creativity, passion and skills inspired me to be the florist I am today. They pushed floristry to another level, and I never stopped learning from them. They encouraged me to attend college, to learn about the trade both behind the scenes and front of house and helped me get my qualifications. I was pushed out of my comfort zone, encouraged to think outside the box and inspired to do incredible things with the amazing team I lead. With my own passion, creativity and determination, these two ladies inspired me to achieve my goals and some of my most memorable, proudest moments were thanks to them. I’m thankful for what I’ve been taught over the years and never stop learning. There’s always something new to learn and the ways in which things are done never stop changing. I grow and evolve with every creation and am even more passionate now than when I started. I absolutely love what I do and with my holistic approach I know my creations bring so much joy not only to me but to others as well ‒ I couldn’t imagine my life without flowers. What’s your favourite floral element of the wedding day to create? I’d have to say the table arrangements. Whilst I absolutely love bridal party flowers and all the beauty of the bouquets/buttonholes I feel that everything flows from the tables. They are the first thing you see when you walk into the venue and give the most impact on the day. I feel that flowers add value to your event; and really notice when corners are cut or attention to detail is missed. This doesn’t mean you have to overstretch your budget but focus on doing what you can well. I love the look on people’s faces when they walk in to see how beautiful it all looks. The displays are a great icebreaker, a talking point for your guests, especially for those who may be socially awkward, struggle to make conversation or simply just don’t know anyone on the table. No need for an awkward silence or eye contact when you can avert your attention to the flowers – for me they do more than just sit there looking pretty. I love them because they enhance the day, make people feel good, you can add personal touches and meaningful blooms, plus you can give them to special guests to enjoy after the wedding! How can couples ensure their choices are sustainable during a time when everyone is conscious of their green credentials: For anyone trying to be more sustainable with their choices perhaps look to hire your glassware/accessories as they are always being re-used – less for you to have to personally store and transport too. Perhaps look at pre-loved items in charity shops and online. Not only saving you a pretty penny but pre-loved is re-loved. Choosing items you can re-use or gift after ensures its life doesn’t just have to end at the end of the night. Speak to your suppliers about contacts they may know too as we are a network of experience and knowledge. I know it’s hard to choose, but do you have a favourite flower? There are so many beautiful varieties to work with. I love each season for what it brings. Daffodils are what I buy for myself as they make me feel happy and a reminder that spring is on its way. I’m in my element when I get to work with different textures and colours and feel this is really when I get to work my magic. Scented flowers, fragrant foliage and plants have the power to improve our mood, reduce stress and help ease anxiety helping you feel calmer and more relaxed. Just one more reason to love what I do. Never underestimate the power of flowers! The Wright Choice, Oxted, Surrey 07881 703 135 | www.thewrightchoiceflowers.co.uk FLOWERS 53
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