We were pleased to be returning to Tatton, a successful show for us each year. Normally selling a lot of our outdoor living products on our stand, we tried something different this year. Our colourful stand was made up of many varieties of beautiful silk flowers with little critters found amongst the blooms. As well as our inert wildlife, we were often visited by the foolish bee hoping for some nectar. In fairness to the bees, we do get a fair few humans giving our silks a good sniff too!
Our Stand At Tatton
A constant for us was our positioning in the show, perfectly situated in the ‘Flower School’. Being in here allowed us to interact with other businesses in the industry, we even did some mini interviews! We took part in running workshops in a lovely open space, watched demonstrations and talks on the stage next to us and had lovely customers to talk to everyday. The sun blessed us with its presence for the beginning of the week but our spirits weren’t dampened (unlike our clothes) because all of the other loveliness. Walking into the tent each day greeted by an array of plants directly in front of us, screaming to be bought, teamed up with fresh flower wall designs leading into large scale designs. What could be upsetting about seeing gorgeous flowers every day?
The Tatton Team
Our stand and our lovely team are so well known here, a lovely sentiment to feel at home. The team this year was made up of the normal staff from the Manchester store; Nadine, Sue, Andrea and Kerry but also joined by Ophelia (me) and Tracy from Bristol. We generated more attention this year with our flower crowns worn gracefully on our heads. We even got on the telly, BBC news loved the crowns! With a massive bunch of peonies in hand the lovely ladies walked around the show. Speaking to everyone at the show, the ladies let them know where we could be found.
Guaranteed to make the audience laugh while learning was Tracy, demonstrating all week she created some gorgeous designs. My favourite was the bike which is just perfect for a wedding! Keeping the audience engaged with her skill set and bouncing off of Dennis Van Wonderen in conversation was a sure reason for her large audience. I delved in floristry in an attempt to help Muir with a buttonhole workshop. I learnt a lot but not yet mastered the skill of floristry, however have learnt to ‘pull and twist’.
We all had so much fun and so thankful for all the lovely people that bought products or just came to say hello. Until next year Tatton, we can’t wait to return!