Student Stories

Florist – Sprig Botanica

Anna Johnson

What course did you study and when?

Two Week Career Change Course

What did you most enjoy about the course?

What I enjoyed most about the course was the emphasis on creativity as the core component of learning.

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

Since then the most significant experience for me was my first wedding. Creating the arrangements myself without the aid of other more experienced florist was nerve racking but ultimately taught me I could do this.

Where are you currently on your floristry journey?

I recently opened my very first shop, bringing together flowers, textiles, art, and a curated collection of things I love.

Describe a typical day in your floristry life?

This summer has been all about bringing my shop to life. Discovering new brands, designing bouquets, and building my website alongside wedding work.

What was the best piece of advice Rachel gave you?

Rachel’s most valuable advice was to trust myself and remember that starting a business can be simpler than it appears.

What makes your business unique?

Flowers are always carefully selected. I love combining different textures and colours that you may not find elsewhere. Everything in the shop is reflective of my taste and there is a sense of my personality in the store. There are influences from my home in Scotland, places I’ve travelled and beautiful pieces I love.

What advice would you give to a student starting out?

Trust the process and embrace creativity, don’t be afraid to experiment and follow your own ideas. Sometimes it doesn’t work but you won’t ever know unless you try.

What do you enjoy most about having your own business?

Owning a shop gives me the opportunity to fully explore my creativity, without the boundaries of working for others.

What is your favourite British flower and why?

Hellebores will always be one of my favourites. The first sign of life after a long cold January where I’m from.

Click here to find out more about Sprig Botanica