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I cannot think of a single occasion where flowers would not be gratefully received as a loving, symbolic gesture. Whether it's the fragrance of an old-fashioned rose or just looking at an array of vibrant gerberas, I can't help smile, and there isn't a dull day that cannot be brightened by them - even if it's a single stem in a vase picked from the garden.
SAY IT WITH FLOWERS
It is so rewarding to be able to make someone's day more special with flowers, something that Hilary's Four Seasons florist in Abergavenny is used to doing. "We love bringing a little joy into someone's life," explains owner Hilary Cooke who, together with her husband David and daughter Charlotte, has been running the business for the past five years.
The family live in a village close to Abergavenny, which is ideal for the early starts that are common practice in the floristry business. It also means that David, who makes the flower deliveries, is familiar with the local territory, as home and office deliveries keep him busy.
Their customers come from Cardiff, Swansea, Hereford and the Valleys for Interflora deliveries, gifts and bouquets for the home; and with a string of Interflora awards, gold medals and even the RHS Chelsea young florist of the year award won by Charlotte, it is no wonder that people travel from as far as the Midlands and London for their stunning floral arrangements.
Hilary explains that it's their passion and knowledge of floral design and their exacting attention to detail and quality that sees clients coming back for more. "We are a professional and creative bunch," she says, "and we work really closely with them to make sure that their brief is met, particularly when designing for events and weddings."
To that end, Four Seasons has found a new niche within the Asian community. Asian weddings are big business and flowers, specifically, are of real significance, with lavish, vibrant displays and garlands. Hilary and the team are in their element here because this gives them opportunities to express their creativity with unique and stunning displays.
Flowers are a good omen in all wedding ceremonies, and Asian brides and grooms take it to another level to invoke good fortune and luck. Often the brides wear fresh flower garlands in their hair and on their wrists. For example, Hindu wedding ceremonies generally take place under a hooded canopy or 'mandap' with the bride and groom taking centre stage for many hours.
Traditionally, the pillars and the canopy are adorned with flowers and garlands, creating a masterpiece within its own right. Flowers are literally the hallmark of Asian weddings which is a true reflection of their vibrant and diverse culture.
The celebratory party that then follows creates a need for floral displays and arrangements on the tables, which gives Hilary and the staff even more scope for creating exquisite centrepieces. Hilary always endeavours to source any exotic or special flower varieties required for the wedding theme, including seasonal flowers or traditional marigolds and roses.
Looking to the future, Hilary, Charlotte and their two assistant florists Stacey and Kelly are excited about the potential for new creative ventures. Certainly they wish to expand their niche into the Asian wedding market; yet to continue serving the local community with innovative designs and cheerful flowers for everyday.
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SISTER MAGAZINES
 
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