FLORIST, AUTHOR & DESIGNER
In this episode of "Life in Charms," Annoushka Ducas has the pleasure of speaking with Willow Crossley, often referred to as the UK's Queen of Flowers. Willow shares her enchanting journey from her idyllic childhood in Wales, filled with outdoor adventures and creativity, to her vibrant career in floristry and design.
The conversation begins with a delightful discussion about Willow's first charm, a whimsical baked potato charm. , featuring a dimpled surface reminiscent of a not-so-perfect potato. The charm is split open, resembling a baked potato, and adorned with little brown diamonds along the split, symbolising the way a potato might get slightly burnt. Inside, it holds a citrine stone representing butter, and if space allows, a tiny Welsh dragon, reflecting her roots. This charm beautifully encapsulates her childhood memories and love for comfort food.
As they delve deeper, Willow reminisces about her upbringing, her artistic mother, and the challenges of raising three boys in a digital age, all while trying to instil the same outdoor spirit she enjoyed as a child.
The discussion then shifts to Willow's early aspirations, which included dreams of becoming a policeman, owning a sweet shop, or being a fashion designer. It was at London School of Fashion, that she discovers her passion for fashion promotion rather than design. Annoushka and Willow explore her journey through internships at prestigious magazines, including Vogue and Harper's, and her eventual pivot to floristry, sparked by a eureka moment while writing her second book, "Decorating with Nature."
Willow's story is one of resilience and creativity, as she navigated the challenges of motherhood and mental health, including her experiences with postnatal depression and a recent ADHD diagnosis. The conversation highlights her successful online magazine, The Seedling, which features a variety of topics from fashion to lifestyle, and her collaborations with various brands, including the memorable opportunity to work on Meghan Markle's wedding flowers.
Throughout their conversation, Willow's warmth and honesty is evident, making it clear that her journey is not just about flowers but about finding beauty in life's complexities. Annoushka and Willow explore the materials used in her charms, including the use of mother of pearl for her Copydex charm, which is designed to resemble a pot of Copydex glue, featuring a gold frame and tiny rubies for the label. The charm also includes a briolette moonstone that moves, adding a playful touch.
Join Anoushka as she explores Willow's life in charms, filled with creativity, love, and the pursuit of happiness.
