Elaine Parkinson
Which course did you study at Tallulah Rose and when?
The four week career course completing Feb 2015.
What did you most enjoy about the course?
The head space to be away from home for that length of time, in the stunning city of Bath, in Rachel’s beautiful school room being immersed in the world of flowers with like minded people. it was a special time and I would love to do it all over again.
What was the most important thing that you learnt during your time at school?
Be true to yourself and your own style. After a very rigid City and Guilds course learning ‘the rules’ Rachel soon taught me that there are no rules and to put your own personality into your flowers.
What was your first big break?
Within a month of returning from the school I had set myself up as a sole trader and had my first big wedding three months after which was very nerve wracking. It was such an amazing feeling though when everything went so well and I had an incredible response to the flowers.
What are you doing now?
I have converted an old stable on the farm where I live with my family into a very rustic workshop and I have set up a cut flower patch and erected a poly tunnel. I am focussing mainly on weddings and intend to incorporate plenty of natural, home grown flowers into my designs.
Describe a typical floristry day?
One of the best things about this job is that there is no ‘typical day’. From wedding consultations and quotes, to sourcing and cutting flowers, to scouring seed catalogues, in addition to actually hand on design work no two days are the same.
What’s been your highlight to date?
Having a brief TV appearance was definitely a highlight, receiving a trowel from Monty Don at RHS Tatton after creating a cut flower shed with some amazing flower friends. Prima magazine ran a feature on my business last year focussing on Christmas designs which was very exciting.
What advice would you give to a new student starting out?
enjoy every minute and don’t feel constrained. Floristry can take you in so many different directions but if you want to set up your own business don’t underestimate the amount of time it will take up and the additional skills you will need to acquire along the way, photography, sales, marketing, social media…..
Visit Elaine’s website to read more about her success…. Felicity Farm Flowers
