A FLORIST in Thornbury whose petal power helped place her shop among the best in a national competition is now counting on people power to help her win.
Jolies Fleurs, located in St Mary Shopping Centre, has been nominated as best retail florist of the year in the country.
The independent shop is among 26 businesses nationwide who are bidding to be crowned in the British Florist Association awards 2023.
Owner Jo Preece, who has been running the business for five years, said she has already been 'blown away' by the response from customers and supporters.
“I'm super super excited and just a little nervous about the nomination,” she said.
“It's quite a prestigious award in the florist world.
“We are blown away by the support so far - being the only florist within the Bristol and Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire area to go this far is really humbling to be honest.
“At a time when the business of floristry could be considered a luxury - at Jolies Fleurs we find that both regular and new customers are really supportive of my little independent business.
“I’m five years in and loving every day!
“Being creative with my team brings joy to not only us but each customer we work with.
“To us it's all about the smiles… and golly wouldn't our smiles be huge if we could make the final cut!”
The competition is organised by the non-profit British Florist Association, which was founded to help all UK florists and the industry "thrive."
Jolies Fleurs is known for its gorgeous handmade displays.
Its shop window featured a spectacular display ahead of the Coronation earlier this year, including an arrangement in the shape of a crown made of over 400 real flowers.
The shop sells a range of bespoke, bouquets, arrangements and wedding and remembrance flowers.
You can vote for Jolies Fleurs here - tinyurl.com/56pj386n
Voting closes on September 21 at 12pm with finalists revealed on September 26 and winners announced on October 14.
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