Paula Turpin
Which course did you study at Tallulah Rose and when?
I initially enrolled on the Online Career Change Course in October 2020, at school a year later for a ‘Tallulah Takes Over’ with Elspeth from Blume; then I was fortunate to do a work experience week with the school at Town Head Floral Retreat Summer 2022 – I loved it so much I attended as a student the following Autumn for the Ultimate Intimate Wedding Hideaway and in 2025 Sustainability with Creativity Day at the Garden Museum.
What did you most enjoy about the course?
The Online Career Change Course was pure gold. I knew I had the talent to work with flowers but didn’t want to study full time in a restrictive traditional sense, and when the course became available during the pandemic, it was an absolute no-brainer for me. To have total flexibility and access to lessons and resources 24/7 really made the learning stress free. Rachel held regular zoom calls with all the other students giving that total sense of belonging and ‘Tallulah’ support and friendships that have continued long after we qualified.
Where are you now on your floristry journey?
I rebranded in April 2023, focusing on Weddings, Farewells and Events, I freelance regularly for another amazing Tallulah and enjoy the creativeness and fun that brings! I also have a small allotment where I grow my own flowers, tailoring them for my clients and for future work.
What is the best part of having your own floristry business?
Having the freedom to stay true to my ethos and individual style.
What’s the best piece of advice Rachel gave you?
To keep being authentic and stay in my own lane.
Why is floristry important to you?
I just love flowers! To be able to create designs using flowers that some have never seen before, to really personalise each arrangement for my couples or for bereaved families and describe the flower choices, meanings or scents and to be so passionate about what I do, it’s so fulfilling.
Is there any opportunity that springs to mind that Tallulah Rose gave you the confidence to pursue?
I’ve always been a confident person, but I think that training with Tallulah Rose gives that added push to be ultra creative, go with your instinct and keep learning and growing, some opportunities work, some don’t – the Tallulah confidence comes when you take what you’ve learned and just go for the next one!
What makes your business unique?
My style is natural, wild with added aromatics – there’s no better compliment when your work is recognised for its individuality. It’s evolved over the years but fundamentally when you place your trust in Florence & Wild the experience will speak for itself. I pride myself (as I’ve done all my working life), in giving the best personal service with exceptional flowers sourced from trusted suppliers.
What is your favourite British flower and why?
Oh, that’s a tough one. It’s like asking you to pick your favourite child. Can I do this by season instead? In Spring I love the delicate ruffles of Ranunculus but especially butterfly varieties, they add so much depth and their longevity and subtle colour changes are so beautiful; Summer has got to be Zinnia! Such a strong cut flower, I love using them in varying stages, queen lime red is my ultimate favourite; Dahlia’s just do it in Autumn, I love pom poms for their cuteness and Chat Noir is my sublime fancy; and Hellebore double varieties bring wonder to Winter, they are such a statement flower.
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