Business is blooming for an Ipswich florist who is celebrating her success by opening a second branch in the town centre.
For more than 15 years Emma’s Florist, in Nacton Road, has delighted people in east Ipswich – and now shoppers can visit her new store in St Peter’s Street.
Now in its second week, the shop – in The Saints – will open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Originally from Essex, owner Emma Felgate trained in floristry for four years at Writtle College.
She launched her independent business at the age of 21.
“It is really exciting,” she said. “Now is a busy time for us – it is the peak period for weddings.”
Describing her journey, the mother-of-two added: “I had worked for so many other florists I was experience and ready to start. The last two businesses I was working for I was managing.
“I wasn’t worried. I think other people were scared for me.
“I came to Ipswich for my husband and we opened in Nacton Road.”
The pair have two young children – one is six and the other just a year old.
Husband Neil worked very hard to prepare and decorate the new shop, Mrs Felgate added.
“He and the family have been very supportive.
“I couldn’t do it without him.”
The business owner heard about the shop being available from Lynn Turner at Cake and Catwalk, she said.
“I fell in love with it straight away,” she said. “It is so pretty.
“Neil has painted it and made the benches. Lucy Rush, who has been with me for six years, is the shop manager.”
“It is such a busy time, it has been a bit mad. But it is completely worthwhile.
“The customers have been lovely, coming in and sharing it on social media.
She added: “Everybody in The Saints community have been welcoming too.
“I am really pleased, the response has been amazing.”
A couple of florists have moved out of the town centre in recent years, she said, and they were looking to grow the business.
This weekend, Mrs Felgate is bringing together the community to celebrate her milestone.
“We have our family fun day – to celebrate 15 years – at Trinity Park this weekend, on Saturday,” she added.
“It is a massive event, with 40 stalls, a bouncy castle and slime making as well.”
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