Poppy Emuss
Which course did you study at Tallulah Rose and when?
I completed a 2-Week Career Change course in the Summer of 2019. I already had some exposure to the floral world in Australia, working as a floristry assistant where I learnt lots but I didn’t get much opportunity to arrange flowers, ever, therefore lacked confidence. This Tallulah Rose Flower School course was perfect and encouraged me to get creative, learn technique, practice, and gain the confidence to kickstart my business.
What did you enjoy most about the course?
I loved the freedom in creativity – we were encouraged to select our own flowers and get stuck in. Each and every one of us worked with a completely different style; no two pieces ever looked the same. Also, it goes without saying, Rachel & her incredible teachers were fabulous and continue to offer us ongoing support, which has been invaluable as my business has grown.
What was the most important thing that you learnt?
That there really are no rules when it comes to creating – be authentic, confident, and more importantly enjoy it. Obviously, there is a lot to learn. Skill and technique plays a big part, and then there are the flowers (and there are lots!) but in terms of aesthetic, to just get stuck in, have a go, don’t be afraid and practice, practice, practice, especially in those early days!
What makes your floristry business unique?
I work with a very natural style however feed in a modern aesthetic to my designs. I work very closely with the seasons and love to include lots of texture, you’ll always find foraged hedgerow ingredients alongside luxury roses in my designs! I enjoy playful modernising with intentional flower placement and reflexing of flowers in my designs. This blend of natural and contemporary elements creates arrangements that feel both timeless and current.
Is there an opportunity that springs to mind that Tallulah Rose Flower School gave you the confidence to pursue?
Tallulah Rose Flower School helped me unlock the confidence to take a leap and believe that I too could set up a successful flower business (alone), and guided me more towards wedding work.
What is your favourite British flower?
Chocolate cosmos, zinnias and dahlias will always be favourites, I can’t choose one!
What was your first big break or most memorable moments so far?
Having the opportunity to work at some of my favourite wedding venues, such as Syon Park, Kew Gardens & Wisley all as my own business, and some incredible venues working as part of a team for other florists. These venues are places I’d always dreamed of working at, and being able to create florals in such stunning locations feels like a real privilege.
What are you doing now?
I now juggle my business as a working mother while expecting another baby towards the end of the year. I have found wedding floristry to be a perfect job to pair with motherhood (although life is very chaotic), allowing me the flexibility to take on work around my childcare, I am able to take on as much work as I feel I can, and ensure that I have enough support from my wonderful team.
Describe a typical floristry day…
I visit the New Covent Garden Flower Market from time to time, but mostly have flowers delivered to my doorstep or collect from local growers. Each day is different, however when a job is approaching I tend to do my computer work at the start of the week (ordering and planning, prepping mechanics) then flowers arrive or are collected from local growers and conditioned a few days before, then arranged typically the day before an event, the van packed and then anything large scale built on site on the day.
What’s been your highlight to date?
Being in a position to finally be able to build and work from my home studio – I hopped from my parents’ kitchen, to stables, to a remote farm building… but now I get to work from the comfort of my home! Beyond this, seeing my business grow has been incredible. Each wedding I create still feels like a privilege, and knowing that couples trust me with such an important day never gets old.
What advice would you give to a new student starting out?
Stay passionate, be as consistent as possible – this helps to solidify your brand and build trust in potential clients. Also remember this is meant to be fun, enjoy your journey – it may take some time to get going but the satisfaction is worth the wait once the ball starts rolling. The confidence will come with practice!
Click here for more information about Poppy Wild Floral
