Dancer steps into rewarding new career as creative florist

Stacey Hartley launched her own floral business 18 months ago and it has already become a blooming success.

The 32-year-old from Hartford showcased her creative work at the RHS Tatton Flower Show.

Stacey said: “I wanted a change.

“I was a dance teacher and choreographer. I’ve always been involved in musical theatre performance.

“I have always been inspired by the garden and I love flowers.

“My aim is to show the power and beauty of being immersed in flowers.

“I went to the Tatton flower show last year and was determined to come back this year as an exhibitor.”

Stacey believes that flowers have a huge impact on our mental health and wellbeing.

Her display entitled ‘A Sense of Change’ celebrates the many stages people experience in life, including moments of change we often fear.

Paige Jones stages a performance at Stacey Hartley's exhibit at the RHS Tatton Flower Show (Image: Newsquest)

The exhibit highlights how, when we use the combined might of our senses, we can rise to any challenge, adapt and find a way to bloom.

A bench cocooned in a garland of country garden flowers sits beneath dried flowers cascading down from an overhead rack.

The hanging installation also holds fresh flowers out of water that will dry naturally during the course of the show.

“Time in nature has a big impact on us as a florist and educator,” said Stacey.

“I really want to express and show that immersing yourself in flowers in your house or garden is hugely beneficial.”

Stacey studied at Flower School and has continued to develop her own unique style.

“The more you do, the more you create,” she said.

“I don’t want flowers to feel contrived. I want people to know there is no right or wrong way, it is interpretation.”

Stacey runs creative workshops and has been inundated with bookings.

“Making flower bands has been very popular,” she said. “I have had a lot of hen parties.

“So far this year I have taught almost 100 people how to create beautiful flower crowns.

“People who don’t think they are creative are surprised by what they can do.

“Everyone’s design will turn out different. Some will be neater, others wilder, it depends on your personality.

“I love giving people two hours when they can forget about everything and just be with nature.”

Stacey has been hosting summer floral workshops at Stonyford Cottage Gardens and Garden Centre in Oakmere.

“I love seeing people enjoy themselves,” she said.

“I only use British flowers.

“To use flowers and nature for a beautiful therapeutic experience gives to much to us all.

“I want to continue spreading floral joy by giving people a space to come and have some creative wellbeing.”

For more details visit Stacey Hartley Floral on Facebook.