Florist opens shopping centre shop and plans behind-the-scene glimpse for 'wonderful customers'

Michelle Johnson, founder of Floral Glory, officially opened her doors at her new premises in Old Square Shopping Centre in Walsall on Saturday having moved from nearby Stafford Street.

Her move comes just before thousands of members of the floricultural industry come together on National Florist Day on June 8 – the first of its kind celebration will champion 'all that is wonderful' about flowers, floristry and the skilled florists themselves.

Michelle, a former social worker turned bespoke florist, is set to share her personal journey with flower fans alike in a 'Meet the Maker' showcase, which will be happening every day from now until June 8.

During the week, the 'flower magician' will be sharing stories about flowers, tips on how to make them look special, host events in and around her shop, and plan local activities, giveaways and competitions, as well as designing a unique bouquet of the week in celebration of the first ever National Florist Day.

She said: "My slogan from the begging of my career in floristry has always been to 'live every moment in full bloom', which means so much including embracing the wonders of flowers at every given opportunity, to celebrate life in spite of daily struggles, make the most of who you are and do it boldly and brightly just like a blooming flower and give yourself permission, space, grace and freedom to reach your fullest potential, whatever that may be and wherever it may lead.

"Do you, and do it blooming well!

"We florists are lucky to have the most wonderful customers who support us and have an appreciation of what we do, so we wanted to show them the behind-the-scenes stories of how the magic happens; how we turn flowers from here and abroad into the messages they want to send to friends and loved ones and why we speak Latin.

"There is so much more to the flower industry than people think so it will be amazing to invite customers to explore and even get the chance to experience a day in the life of all things 'flowerful'. It's an amazing job!"

Founder of National Florist Day, and editor of The Florist Trade Magazine Caroline Marshall-Foster added: "There is there something magical about working with flowers, and florist shops are often at the heart of every community.

"Not only purveyors of beautiful blooms but engaging with everyone, across all ages and often seen as a safe place for a drop in and chat. Add in the fact that there is simply no occasion where flowers can’t convey a message.

"National Florist Day is the industry’s way of sharing that fabulousness and showing the public that there is so much more to flowers and floristry than meets the eye. That behind every bloom is an army of flower magicians waving their wands to create floral goosebump moments every day of the week."

Michelle was one of the very few florists invited personally by Caroline to attend the official launch of National Florist Day at the Dorchester Hotel in London last week.

She was also selected by BT Global to have a two week advert worth £3500 run on their digital street hub located in Walsall Town Centre.

Her success does not end there – Michelle has partnered with jewellers H. Samuel to style their Walsall store window for a bridal campaign. She will be installing a floral window display to showcase an array of wedding bands for prospective couples.