How did I get here? It's been a journey ...

About Me – A Journey of determination, passion and love!

Let me tell you my story—grab a cup of tea, it’s a bit of a ramble! My journey began part-time at the original Down to Earth florist in High Lane. It was the 1980s, and this gorgeous little shop was run by an amazingly talented couple who were ahead of their time in floral design. Under their encouragement, I pursued my City & Guilds qualification, all while working for a whopping £20 a day!

Flowers had been my passion since I was a teenager, but life took me on a different path after school. Fate brought me back when I was 31 and looking for part-time work. I fell head over heels for floristry all over again. A few years in, I started working with Interflora Services, demonstrating, designing, and helping modernize their packaging and product ranges. I traveled the world—from China to India, Germany to France—sourcing beautiful items for florists and developing innovative designs.

This led me to a role in Holland, working with a supplier for Marks & Spencer. I was part of the team that created their iconic flower box bags and developed other packaging and sundries for the UK market. Alongside this, I ran a small company importing packaging from India and China for UK growers, and I was lucky enough to collaborate with incredibly talented people like Jane Packer, who inspired me endlessly during my time working in New York and M&S Baker.

After years of jet-setting, living in Holland part-time, and even opening a little gift shop in New Delhi near a temple (teaching locals European-style wrapping—what an experience!), life took an unexpected turn. I fell head over heels in love back home and decided to leave the hectic travel behind to focus on my family.

But my creative spark didn’t disappear. We bought a run-down barn in the middle of nowhere—complete with cows and sheep—and I set about renovating it while studying for a diploma in interior design. My love for interiors was sparked during my travels when I’d visit home décor halls at trade shows. Over time, I combined my floristry expertise with my growing passion for interiors, opening a shop, working with top suppliers, and even styling show homes for estate agents and builders.

Eventually, life brought me full circle. When the Down to Earth florist came up for sale, I jumped at the chance to return to where it all began. It was run down, but I was determined to bring it back to life. Eleven years on, I’ve weathered the ups and downs of recessions, Covid, and everything in between. But my love for creating beautiful flowers and helping people bring their visions to life—whether in florals or interiors—has never wavered.

Now, I’m excited for the next chapter. As we rebrand Down to Earth, I’m expanding further into home interiors and garden furniture—combining everything I love under one roof. Watch this space as we launch fresh products and concepts in the coming months. I can’t wait to share what’s next with you!

With Love Bev and my fur baby Beryl xxx