Meet the team
For 77 years, our store at 512 Pollen Street has served the Thames community. I took over Flowers On Pollen 18 months ago from Heidee and Jacqui, and before them the Gwynne family ran their florist and gift store The Garden Room here for over 60 years. You’ll still see Sue Gwynne and Jacqui Russell in-store at busy times, sharing their knowledge and laughter.
I’m lucky to have my creative sidekick Breezy (Bre Barker)—florist, cake maker, dance teacher, nail tech, and tattooist – whose artistic flair and customer care are second to none. My husband Mike keeps projects, gardens, coffee, and supplies flowing, and our wider support crew – Sue, Hayley, Jax, Krissy, and Bethany—step in with extra 💪 whenever needed.
How long have you been in the flower industry?
I am a (relative) newcomer! I worked in corporate communications and design research for over 20 years, I do have a creative background, am a printmaker, publisher and turned florist (by way of a midlife crisis floristry course 2 years ago!). What started as a love of gardening and creating with my hands has grown into a passion for helping people mark life’s moments with flowers.
What is your favourite Freeda flower to work with?
Tough question! I am a big fan of stock (especially spray) when its available – but also love your Lisianthus.
What is the best part of being a florist?
It’s a privilege to share in people’s special times. Whether happy or sad occasions, we have so many moments of tears and laughter with our customers – and I am grateful. Feeling those feels and being a conduit for ensuring others feel loved, remembered, and celebrated is an awesome way to spend your day.
What is your favourite season for blooms and why?
As a flower buyer its hard to go past summer when there is so much to choose from and the prices are good. But (for sentimental reasons) I am a sucker for Magnolia blooms and my heart sings when they are out late winter early spring.
what do you love about partnering with freeda?
We value the service we get from the Freeda team. Your integrity and care for your customers are excellent. And (as we are in a growth phase), the fact that you’re happy to be flexible on our standing orders as we need extras (often at short notice) is brilliant. We also think you grow (really) good product. When I bought Flowers on Pollen, the business was sourcing Chrysanthemums from two suppliers, and I consolidated to you as your Burwood Chrysanthemums are head and shoulders above the others. Finally (and importantly), we appreciate that your business is looking to grow and diversify your offer to florists (and flower buyers) your continuous improvement approach makes you a great partner for our business. We are aligned with a lot of shared values!
