TALENTED florist and hardworking single mum Melanie Woodyard always knew she wanted to own her own florist business one day.
It was late last year when that dream came true.
Growing up in Wattle Glen, she started a colourful career as an apprentice in Melbourne CBD, to working in country NSW to moving to Doreen – Ms Woodyard had seen it all.
“I remember picking lilacs at 4am in country NSW with my boss at the time. I would be under the ladder catching the flowers and bundling them up for market,” she said.
Ms Woodyard said that the best thing about her job is making people smile.
“The best thing is helping people who can’t be there for a certain event – it makes people so happy seeing a bunch of beautiful flowers from their loved ones.”
The creative florist also loves sourcing new materials and ideas.
“I love going to the Melbourne Markets in Epping – I like to see what’s in season, bringing it to the store and sharing it with my customers.
“I really believe in shopping local and supporting business in our area, my gift cards are hand made by a Mum and Neighbour duo in Doreen, Coda Creations”
Ms Woodyard wanted her own store after 15 years of working for other florists.
“I saw a shop open on Hazelglen Drive next to the Flair Lounge Hairdressers – and all of a sudden things fell into place.”
Ms Woodyard said she now has more time for her kids, as she can work her hours around school drop off and pick up.
“It’s been going well so far – I just need to keep it going,” she said.
“With Valentine’s Day around the corner as well – I just have no idea what to expect.”
After a difficult separation in 2016 Ms Woodyard has found her feet again.
She bought herself a vintage caravan to take her kids camping.
“The kids love it, I do it all by myself now – towing the caravan, setting up camp and packing everything away.”
Ms Woodyard is looking forward to what the future holds and helping her community spread the love this Valentines Day and everyday after that.
