THOSE OF US THAT FLOWER; THE 2026 ANNUAL GATHERING

Vase and hellebore with hand-painted backdrop from Sarah Pitt Studio

The light’s returning, February arrives tomorrow and I’m reporting in for the first time this year with my takeaways from an inspirational day spent at this year’s @flowersfromthefarm conference. 

There are always many things to take on board and implement on return but the greatest for me was from @joshua_sparkes hearing about habitat creation, the biodiversity he’s reintroduced to parts of North Devon and his role as part of @collectiveatwollsery. A mountain of incredibly inspiring things we can all do on our own flower farms big or small. I am particularly pleased to be given permission to let the weeds off and do something useful with them.

Florence and James @Petalon gave a refreshing, hilarious and honest account of the story of their business. From London, bikes and flowers to a ‘derelict acre’ in Devon and navigating the impact of headlines, the reality of promoting a business on social media, certifications and customer comprehension. ‘Go where your people are’ and ‘block out the noise’.

Lovely to hear from @milliiproust and @parisalma and the journey to making their business fit. ‘Follow your curiosity’, ‘don't copy’ what’s nearby and navigate accordingly. I really enjoyed hearing about trying out everything, figuring out where your real passions lie and doing what’s necessary it.

@simonlysett our brilliant host reminded us all perfectly; we're all making our way in flowers; project your messages kindly. 

Thanks to the hardest working and loveliest Jenny at @Halliesphere who is exhibiting at the conference again this year with one of my backdrops from  @sarahpittstudio and to Andrea @wild_meadow for helping me set up. The stand looks beautiful!

Wonderful day. Back at work and mentally implementing lots, as always!

Severn Valley Flowers brand photoshoot