AN AWARD-winning florist based in Kingsclere will be celebrating its 20th birthday this month.
Staff at Sonning Flowers will celebrate the milestone on Friday, April 12 with lots planned including surprise gifts for customers and a new birthday gift bouquet range.
It was founded in April 2004 and now has a team of 12 people working across Basingstoke, Reading, and Newbury.
Owner Heather Reilly became part of the Sonning Flowers' journey more than a decade ago. Her love for floristry started at age 14 after a week’s work experience at a florist.
Heather said: “The pandemic meant our shop doors closed temporarily and a large number of weddings and events were postponed. Some aspects of the business were put on hold, but our website became our shopfront and our gift bouquet ranges flourished.
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"This kept us busy throughout the pandemic and it's without a doubt why we are still standing today. I will never be able to thank our loyal customers for the continuing support they have given us, particularly through the pandemic."
Heather loved floristry from the moment she walked through the door and knew this is what she was destined to do. From starting as a Saturday girl at Sonning Flowers 13 years ago, to obtaining her level 4 City & Guilds Qualification in floristry aged 19 and in 2018 she then became the proud owner of the company.
In 2021, after 10 years on the high street, Sonning Flowers moved out of Reading town centre to a countryside workshop in Kingsclere.
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Highlights in Sonning Flowers' story so far include providing floral arrangements for the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show and winning National Wedding Florist of the Year in 2022 at the Wedding Industry Awards.
Heather added: "This was an all-time high for me and still gives me goosebumps to this day, it’s a moment I will cherish forever.
"None of this would be possible without the support and loyalty of all of our customers, wedding couples and also my fantastic team. Thank you so much for supporting us and cheers to the next 20 years."
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