Meet the Maker - Rachel, The Petal Girl
March Meet the Maker: Meet Rachel, The Petal Girl
Hi, I’m Rachel, the florist behind The Petal Girl, and I’m so excited to share a little more about my journey, my love for flowers, and what you can expect when you step into my floral world!
How Did I Become a Florist?
After spending most of my career in a corporate role, I was craving a creative outlet. I decided to explore something different and enrolled in an introductory floristry course—and that’s where my love for flowers truly blossomed. As I honed my skills and freelanced for other florists, I realised this passion was more than just a hobby. In 2018, I took the leap and launched The Petal Girl, and I haven’t looked back since!
My Floral Inspiration
Nature, the changing seasons, and the stunning colors they bring are at the heart of everything I do. I love experimenting with different colour palettes and floral ingredients, allowing the beauty of each season to guide my designs.
In 2019, shortly after becoming a florist, I established a small flower farm where I grow many of the flowers I use in my arrangements. Being part of Flowers from the Farm, I’m passionate about using British-grown flowers wherever possible. It’s incredibly rewarding to have a deep connection with the flowers I work with—from seed to bloom and beyond.
Embracing Everlastings
One of my favourite aspects of floristry is working with flowers throughout their entire lifecycle. Many of the blooms I grow are dried and preserved, allowing me to create everlasting designs that bring the beauty of nature into interiors. There’s something magical about giving flowers a second life, allowing them to be enjoyed long after their peak bloom.
————————————————————————
A Little More About Me
What inspired you to become a florist and start The Petal Girl?
I’ve always been drawn to flowers—their colours, delicate details, and the way they can instantly brighten someone’s day. What started as a creative escape quickly grew into something more, and in 2018, I decided to turn my passion into a business. Now, I get to create floral magic for weddings, events, and beyond, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What’s your favourite flower, and does it have a special meaning to you?
It’s so hard to choose just one! I’ve always loved daisies for their cheerful simplicity. But lately, I’ve been smitten with corn cockle—it’s delicate, wild, and effortlessly beautiful.
What’s the most memorable floral arrangement you’ve ever created?
There have been so many, but one that stands out was a wedding bouquet filled with soft pastel blooms, trailing ribbons, and wild, garden-style touches. The bride wanted something natural, romantic, and a little undone. Seeing her face light up when she held it for the first time was pure magic.
What’s one tip for making flowers last longer at home?
The simplest trick? Change the water daily! Fresh, clean water keeps flowers vibrant for longer. Also, trim the stems at an angle every couple of days and keep them away from direct sunlight or fruit (which releases ethylene gas that can cause flowers to wilt faster).
Favourite way to spend a day off?
A cosy morning with a cup of tea, followed by a long walk to soak in nature’s beauty. I also love pottering around antique shops, hunting for vintage finds and unique props for my floral designs.
————————————————————————
Want to Stay Updated on My Floral Adventures?
If you’d like to follow along with my latest floral creations and upcoming workshops, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. I’d love to have you join me on this floral journey!
The Petal Girl - Colchester, Essex & Suffolk Florist
Photography: Siobhan Johns Photography