Exciting New Beginnings: New Website & Plans for 2025

Hey lovely people! I’m so excited to share some big news with you all. It feels like the perfect way to kick off a fresh chapter.

First things first, if you’re reading this, then welcome to my brand-new website! It’s been a bit of a journey getting here (technology and I don’t always see eye to eye), but I’m thrilled with how it’s all come together. There are still a few tweaks to make, but honestly, it already feels like home.

What’s New?

The new website isn’t just a digital space, it’s a reflection of what’s ahead. Here’s what you can expect:

• Easy workshop booking: You can now check out all the upcoming dates and reserve your spot in just a few clicks. The first workshop is live here! • Inspiration gallery: Have a browse through photos from past workshops and get a little creative inspiration. • Regular blog updates: I’ll be sharing tips, stories from the farm, and behind-the-scenes peeks to keep you feeling inspired. • Email updates: I’m aiming to send out a newsletter every couple of months with flower availability and workshop updates. Make sure you sign up at the bottom of the page!

I really hope this new space makes your experience even better. But that’s just the start. 2025 is shaping up to be a year of growth, creativity, and connection, and I can’t wait to share it all with you.

Reflecting on 2024: A Surprising Twist After Storm Darragh

Looking back on 2024, one unexpected highlight has to be the wreath workshop in December at my own home. It wasn’t exactly planned that way. Storm Darragh had other ideas! Just a couple of hours before the workshop, the original venue lost power. Cue mild panic, frantic phone calls, and a quick decision to move everything to my kitchen.

And you know what? It turned out to be the best workshop ever. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, and the informal setting made it so much easier to connect with everyone. We shared stories, had a few laughs, and created beautiful wreaths together. It reminded me why I love what I do.  Bringing people together to create in a relaxed and supportive space.

So, for 2025, I’m planning to run more small group workshops from my home. Here’s why I think you’ll love them:

• A relaxed, welcoming environment. Just a cozy space where you can feel at ease and let your creativity flow. • Personalised attention: With smaller groups, I get to spend more time with each of you, making sure you leave with something you’re proud of. • A sense of community: You’ll meet others who share your love for flowers, crafting, and all things creative.

There’s something magical about gathering around a table, sharing stories, sipping tea (or maybe a festive mulled wine!) and creating something beautiful together. I’m really excited to offer more of these workshops in 2025.

Community Connections & Local Flowers

Another highlight from 2024 was supplying the Lisburn store Sonas Coop with weekly flowers. Julie at Sonas has been an absolute gem, looking after my blooms so well. The feedback from customers has been so lovely, and I’ve loved getting to know more people in my local community.

I also got back to my roots in community horticulture, working with New Leaf Compost as part of their community team. We delivered workshops to schools, charities, and local groups across Lisburn, sharing the joy (and know-how) of gardening. It’s been incredibly rewarding, and I’m looking forward to continuing this work in 2025. In fact you can expect to see more of this side of my work on social media too. I want Mrs. Bloom to be a space that celebrates all aspects of growing, from flowers to food to community projects.

How You Can Get Involved

I’d love for you to join me on this journey. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

• Florists: If you’re a local florist looking for seasonal, sustainably grown flowers, please get in touch. I’d be delighted to supply your blooms. • Community groups: If you’re part of a group interested in gardening workshops or facilitation, let’s chat! I’d love to collaborate and bring more gardening joy to our community. • Everyone else: If you have any questions or just fancy saying hello, you can reach me through the contact form on my website. I’d love to hear from you!

Thank You!

I honestly can’t thank you enough for your support. Whether you’ve come along to a workshop, bought flowers, shared a post, or sent a kind word my way – it all means so much. You’re the reason I get to do what I love.

Here’s to a 2025 full of growth, creativity, and community. Let’s keep growing together!

With love,

Ann (aka Mrs. Bloom)