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Introducing Amanda, of 'Distinctly Floral'

21/1/2016

 
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One of the things I love about my job, is that I get to meet so many different people - not just our lovely customers, but also some wonderful suppliers too.  I really would love for you all to 'meet' Amanda, of Distinctly Floral.

Amanda was kind enough to take time out of her busy schedule, to answer a few questions for me, so you can get to know her:

Tell us a little bit about what you do:
 
We are a bespoke wedding and event florist that loves designing individual and striking floral arrangements.  We like to  spend time getting to know our couples and finding out more about their likes and dislikes; we then turn their ideas into a perfect reality using the highest quality flowers combined with our ever expanding treasure trove of accessories.  Our aim is to make each couples’ day unique and truly beautiful.  Nothing is too “wacky, too much trouble, or too small.  We’re never bored, dismissive or anything other than energised and excited about our weddings (sometimes a little over-excited).  We have fun as a team and believe we provide the best of all worlds...we are passionate about our flowers, we’re perfectionists, our knowledge is unsurpassed, and above all, we are completely professional and trustworthy.
What was the last picture you took on your phone?
The last picture I took on my phone was of Highland Cattle on a dog walk.  They’re such stunning creatures and the colours looked beautiful.
What's your motto, or favourite saying?
I’m often heard to say “be careful what you wish for”, or “onwards and upwards”.  Not a motto but both apply in lots of situations.
What does a perfect day look like to you?
A perfect day would involve flowers, dogs, walks, wine, cake and David Attenborough…so perhaps a walk in a bluebell wood with the dogs and David Attenborough followed by afternoon tea with a glass of wine.  Can I go now?!
If you could witness any event, past, present or future, what would it be?
I have never considered what event I’d like to witness…I never look back so I will have to give a very “touchy feely” aspirational answer which is that I would love to witness an end to the pointless wars and violence that we’re witnessing at the moment.  Probably a bit of a Miss World answer, but seeing World Peace would be truly amazing.
What skill would you like to learn?
I’d love to learn to fly a plane

What do you feel most proud of?
I’m so proud of building a business that continues to bring happiness to so many people.  I work so hard to make everything perfect and very individual for each and every couple and I am beyond happy when I get the feedback that it was everything they wanted and more.
Why did you choose your profession?
My profession chose me!  I worked at a very senior level in international companies in the Finance Sector and didn’t have the chance to use my creativity.  My husband bought me a Masterclass with the late Jane Packer who truly inspired me to go on further and do more and more training.  When I had an opportunity to exit the very stressful role I was in with some additional finance, I took the chance to give it a go and see whether I could make an alternative career.  So from high Finance, designer clothes, a large salary and sports cars, I’m now elbow deep in bleach, cold water and fabulous flowers, wearing old and cheap clothes, earning below the minimum wage and driving a van….and I couldn’t be happier!
How do you spend your free time?
In my very rare spare time (I am a workaholic), I walk my dogs, read, do some wildlife photography where possible and bake.
What are your favourite three books, and why?
It’s impossible to choose just three books as I’ve read thousands over the years in all genres.  I’m a bit of a bookworm and am reading autobiographies at the moment.  But there are two books that have been read several times and will be read again and they are Brideshead Revisited (Evelyn Waugh) and the Horse Dancer (Jojo Moyes)… the latter is a hark back to my equestrian background and has me in tears every time.
If I could browse through your music collection, what would be your guilty pleasure?
I’ve just gone back through all the music on my phone and nothing qualifies as a guilty pleasure really.  I love music and listen to everything from Florence and the Machine, Catfish and the Bottlemen to Ella Fitzgerald, Van Morrison, Caro Emerald and everything in between.  So I’ve dug deep and included two songs that really make me dance around the kitchen which annoy everyone around me…they are “Can’t Speak French”  by Girls Aloud and The Ketchup Song – Las Ketchup (I’m a sucker for a dance routine!).

Please do take a look at the Distinctly Floral website, or find them on Facebook 

Amanda link
22/1/2016 06:41:32 pm

I was honoured to be asked to provide some answers for Chic n Cheerful's blog. Most of us just add links to our websites but true to the personal and unique approach that is so archetypally Chic n Cheerful, they've made it so much nicer. Having met Dianne and Grant many years ago, it's a joy to watch their business (and family) grow. I've already had a fabulous crafternoon tea and can't wait for the opportunity to book Pixie for a garden party. Dianne and Grant will make your event perfect and will always go that extra mile, so don't be at all worried about booking them straight away....you won't be sorry! Come along to Bluewater wedding fair on 29th - 31st to say hi to them (and me if you like too!)


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