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10th Anniversary for New Beginnings - Bungay Florists

As floristry is inextricable from births, deaths and marriages, Susan and John Curtis chose the name New Beginnings as the appropriate name for their florisry business in Bungay's Earsham Street.

Now celebrating it's 10th year the shop has steadily progressed and taken on a Dutch influence. Not surprising since the partners have great admiration for the way the worlds leading floristry country go about their trade. Not only do Susan and John make frequent buying trips to Holland they have also bought an apartment in the Hague; John has learnt how to speak Dutch; and Susan has often represented England in floral competitions in the auction grounds at Honseldyke.

This intimate knowledge of the Netherlands, especially from flower and plant marketing aspects, has been invaluable. Orchids, for example, can be bought direct from the growers. An almost clockwork delivery system has been devised so that the finest quality products can be bought and delivered to New Beginnings in their most perfect condition. Naturally English flowers are obtained from seasonal growers.

East Anglia is,in fact, one of the best areas in the country for flower producers, so spring flowers in particular are superlative. Although New Beginnings has stretched a few of its own roots into the Netherlands, Susan is passionate about life in her own Suffolk border town. A rewarding commitment to the local community has involved many civic appointments such as Mayor; President of the Chamber of Trade, councillor, Town Reeve and Foeffee. "It's such a lovely little town, we love working with the people here."

The freshness and quality of the flowers and plants are what really sets New Beginnings apart. Supplier contacts have been built up over many years and reliability means hand-picking all stock personally. The couple have not wasted their combined fifty years in the floristry trade. Constantly improving standards and seeking new innovations is the ethos behind this flourishing success story. This plus a large slice of unceasing hard work.

Despite an early start, around 4.30am (3am on wedding days!) Susan still finds enthusiasm to be right there at the leading edge of design and presentation. The continental approach is evident in the shop where there is an open Dutch market style theme. You could say "designer rustic". An old tin bath forms a centrepiece feature. The room is full of vibrant colour and atmosphere.

The Pot 'in' Shed is a fairly recent addition to the shop offering a stylish range of accessories such as vases, glassware, candles and so on. Flowers and pot plants can be sent worldwide via the Teleflorist network, probably the most economical, professional way to send a personal message. Flowers have an almost magic language of their own. If you want to say it...send them!

For those really big occasions however New Beginnings really comes into its own. Wedding flowers demand superlative attention and you can be assured of the best at New Beginnings. All the senior staff of Susan with Claire (shop manager) and Lorraine have extensive knowledge and can advise with creativity on all aspects of bridal work. Immaculate timing is all part of their dedication so your flowers for your perfect day will be one thing less to worry about.

Similarly New Beginnings are involved in funeral work on a daily basis. Susan can show clients an exclusive portfolio of designs and has a sympathetic manner to address this most distressing time. Private consultations at clients homes are often preferred and Susan and her team are very willing to visit at client's convenience. Of course an efficient florist needs a keen worker behind the scenes and Rosie, in the nerve centre, is always busy keeping the containers and stock in immaculate condition.

No wonder then that many local restaurants and hotels are frequent customers. They know the value of flowers for completely changing the mood of a room. It need not be of Mr and Mrs Beckham proportions, something tasteful for a few pounds can equally work wonders. It is all down to artistry -and that's where New Beginnings come in. More information can be found on their web page or why not call in to the shop and see for yourself? Alternatively you can call them on 01986 896404.

www.bungay-suffolk.co.uk