This week’s Friday Feature is the truly lovely Tracey from Wild Soul Flowers. Tracey’s many creative talents have seen her small business evolve over the years, from designing pieces for weddings to running an online shop, but one thing always stayed constant – an intuitive ability to create gorgeous things that connect with people. Now, having recently followed the pull towards a different creative path, she creates that same emotive magic as an artisan florist.
Let’s get to know more about the wonderful creative woman behind the small business…
Yes, creativity has always been part of who I am. As a child I loved making things, I would sit for hours drawing and painting, animals were a particular favourite. My nan taught me to sew, knit and bake and I knew I would always have fun when I was with her. I come from a creative family, so that instinct to create has always been there.
Absolutely. It keeps me grounded and present, it allows me to express things I don’t always have words for and I feel incredibly lucky that my work is something I genuinely love.
I was made redundant in 2010 after working my way up to studio manager in a local design firm. I decided to try freelancing “for a bit” and here I am 16 years later still working for myself. My business has evolved over the years, from wedding design to paper goods, running an online shop, and now working with flowers.
It feels intuitive and soulful to me. I’m not traditionally trained so I come at it from a design point of view, instinctively, through shape and colour. I love being able to create something that can help in moments of emotion, joy, love, celebration and grief. And as much as it is lovely to be surrounded by such beauty day in day out it’s not really about the flowers, but about the person I am making them for.
That it’s easy or just faffing about making something look pretty! Floristry is physically demanding, time sensitive and emotionally involved work. You’re often working long hours in the cold, doing a lot of heavy lifting and holding space for people during some of the most meaningful moments in their lives.
I’d love to create more intimate, in person experiences like workshops or small gatherings that bring together creativity, flowers and wellbeing. Spaces where people can slow down and make something beautiful with their hands.
Not perfectly and I’ve learned that’s okay. My aim is to be there for my children while also honouring doing something I love and feel proud of. I try to work in a way that supports family life rather than overwhelms it, and I’ve become much better at listening to when I need rest.
Confidence and valuing my work has been a big one. I’ve had to unlearn the habit of playing small and learn to take up space creatively and professionally. After having my children, I lost my way for a while, but more recently I’ve been pushing myself to get out of my own way. I’m good at running a business and I’m good with people and with age I think it’s something I’m learning to own.
Definitely ups and downs. Some days creativity flows easily, and other days I question myself. Since retraining as a florist, imposter syndrome has been a regular companion, but I’ve learned to keep going anyway and trust that growth often comes with discomfort.
To continue building a business that feels aligned, gentle and meaningful, one that allows me to create beautiful things, connect with others and still leave space for my family, life and joy.
Tracey’s love of creativity and connection shines through in everything she says and does. It’s clear that, for her, it’s about far more than ‘just flowers’ – and that ethos flows through to everyone she creates for.
If you’d like to find out more about Tracey’s flower services or workshops, head to her website: wildsoulflowers.co.uk – or for behind the scenes content, take a look at her Instagram: @wildsoulflowers
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