Jemma Khan

Which course did you study at Tallulah Rose Flower School?

I studied the four-week career course in November 2020. It was a strange time, and the course was nearly cancelled due to lockdown. Thankfully, we were able to go ahead, as it was classed as education.

What did you most enjoy about the course?

Ahhh, this is so difficult because I honestly enjoyed every minute. The elements that stand out most are the complete creative freedom we were given and the relaxed, gentle style of teaching. It really helped build my confidence. I never felt like I was doing something wrong, if something didn’t look quite right, there would be a gentle tweak and a thoughtful explanation as to why. The opportunity to work with such beautiful flowers was fantastic, and the range of arrangements we created really helped me build my portfolio.

What has been your most memorable moment since leaving the course?

There have been many, but the ones that really stand out are often tied to moments of growth. Launching my first website, Forage, was a proud moment, it felt like a huge achievement because I did it all myself. The course gave me the confidence to believe in myself and just go for it. Working at Chatsworth House was another highlight. It had been a dream of mine, and doing it made me want to work at more historic and high-end venues.

What is the best part of having your own floristry business?

Creative autonomy and the flexibility to work in a way that suits me, especially important with a young family. Although, if you ask them, they might say I’m a bit too obsessed with the business!

Are you seeing the financial return in your business?

Honestly, now, after four years, I’m finally starting to see the financial rewards. But it’s been hard. The early years are all about building your portfolio and investing in your business. You need a lot of tools, materials, and continuous learning. It definitely doesn’t stop once the course ends.

What’s the best piece of advice Rachel gave you?

“All colours go together” and to look outside for colour inspiration. Of course, some colour combinations work better than others, but hearing that really helped free me up creatively.

What advice would you give your younger self starting out?

Say yes to everything and it will always work out, also, what you see is so different to others, so don’t be so hard on yourself.

What part of being a florist do you enjoy the most?

Creating designs and researching the flowers I want to use. I especially love working on large-scale installations, they’re where I feel most in my element. I do have one pet hate though… wrist corsages!

Was there an opportunity that springs to mind that Tallulah Rose gave you the confidence to pursue?

The course gave me the confidence to go for it as a wedding florist. There wasn’t one specific opportunity, but it was the push I needed to start taking myself seriously. I’d studied floristry at college before, but I didn’t feel confident enough to do someone’s wedding until I completed the course at Tallulah Rose.

What is your favourite British flower and why?

You can’t ask this question, it’s too hard! But if I had to choose, I’d say hellebores. There’s just something magical about them. I love their gentle droop and those muted, delicate tones. Spring flowers in general are always my favourites.

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