Next up in our gang of loveliness is Willow & Thyme run by the awesome Joules (below left) and aided by the fab Mel (below right). Joules actually did the flowers for our own wedding and we’ve loved her ever since. She’s truly a part of the Huntsmill family! She creates utterly beautiful floral magic and is a wonderfully warm and friendly person to boot. Please read her ace Q&A below.
Tell us about yourself
Hi I’m Joules and I am just a little bit bonkers about flowers and a sucker for a love story, hence why I became a specialist wedding florist. I have 4 gorgeous children, 1 patient and very lovely husband and 2 black Labradors who are a very big part of our family. I love our beautiful countryside and being outdoors so can often be found foraging to find that extra special touch for your wedding flowers. I couldn’t do all I do without my right-hand flower guru “Mel”, this year we have dusted off our running shoes (which have been a little neglected) and have promised to rediscover our fitter selves, wish us luck!
Why did you want to become a wedding florist?
Floristry has been the creative adventure I craved after I left behind my job in London about 10 years ago to spend more time with our children. It’s a busy, life but so rewarding, every day is different and every wedding unique, I love it all.
What is your style?
I like to think that my style is loose, natural and romantic. I love to use seasonal blooms and incorporate flowers from the garden & hedgerow whenever I can. I am very passionate about my bridal bouquets and strive to create the most perfect bouquet every time, each one unique and reflective of your personality. If we bring a little tear to your eye when we arrive with your blooms, we know we’ve nailed it! We also like big installations and a challenge to create something a little different; ask away as anything (mostly) is possible.
What advice would you give couples when choosing their wedding florist?
Choose a florist whose work and style you admire and don’t forget to check out whether your venue recommends them and what reviews they have had from previous couples. Ultimately just go with your gut instinct and choose a florist you feel a connection with and with whom you will enjoy planning your wedding, after all it should be the most fun you will ever have!
What makes you happy?
Being out with our dogs and embracing the outdoors. I am running with our youngest lab this year and there is nothing quite so exhilarating, I just wish I could keep up!
If you could be someone else for a day, who would you be and why?
Dame Julie Walters, she is such a fabulous actor and an inspirational woman.
What do you love most about your job?
Being a part of the joy and happiness on the morning of a wedding and feeling like I have made a difference. I also love the freedom and creativity; my dream phrase is “just do what you do best Joules, we trust you completely!”
What trends are you loving at the moment?
As far as trends are concerned, I would say embrace them but stay true to yourselves and let your own personalities shape your wedding. For 2019 I think we will still see lots of hanging installations for that wow factor, masses of foliage, wild & informal florals and gold/copper accents.
Why should our couples choose you?
I always take the time to really get to know you so I can ensure your wedding flowers reflect your personality but I promise I will never lose sight of the fact that it is your wedding and it has to be right for you.
What’s your drink of choice?
Tea, it has to be tea but I do try to drink lots of water with a slice of lemon to keep hydrated when I’m really busy. I may also be prone to the odd glass of wine, but after my work is done!
Who is your dream celebrity wedding couple?
Lady Gaga and Christian Carino are planning to marry this year; I mean it’s surely going to be an utterly bonkers wedding!
See more of Willow & Thyme here:
Instagram @willowandthyme
Facebook @willowandthyme
Twitter @WillowandThymeJ
Pinterest @jawrigley
You can find contact details for Willow & Thyme and all our preferred partners here. They’re a lovely bunch so please take a look!
Thanks !!!