It’s getting tough out there. This prolonged wet weather has had an effect on the flowers, but it’s more evident to me in the strain on Rachel and Ash. We grow enough flowers here to cover ourselves and can supply everything we’ve committed to, but it’s certainly a lot tougher than it was last year.
Crazy to think how we prayed for rain back in March, ‘be careful what you wish for’ springs to mind. We always knew building a business around the British weather would be a challenge, but this is certainly testing our metal now. My heart really goes out to all the British growers and other small businesses that are finding it hard. I've heard some sad stories from farmers, marquee companies and boat yards alike. Guess umbrella sales are up.
As the florist here, I don’t get too involved in the growing side, but I’ve learnt so much over the last few years I really appreciate what goes into each flower I use. It’s hard to see a lot of Rachel and Ash’s hard work come to nothing because the weather has been so unkind.
Thankfully, there are a lot of flowers in the garden and the ones we can use are looking as radiant as ever. Here are a few colourful shots:
Flower crown of nigella & sweet william and a bridal bouquet of nigella, sweet william, sweet peas, alchemilla and apple mint.
Bridal bouquet of roses & knautia and a bridesmaid bouquet of roses, peonies, stocks and alchemilla.
If you are planning to come along to our open day on July 15th (1pm to 5pm) maybe you'd like to join me in a sun dance?
Jo Wise