Brigitte creates seasonally inspired floral art using flowers that are British-grown and locally sourced. She teaches her floral style and ethos to florists and flower enthusiasts from her home studio and her online flower school, and is also a columnist, writer, photographer and podcast host.
Gardening came first, and came early.
“For me, there is something fundamental, vital almost, about being outside, immersed in nature and the countryside. My childhood memories are filled with sunny days, exploring the Suffolk fields and lanes that I grew up surrounded by. Picking primroses or watching the swallows lining up ready to begin another long journey, catching newts and smelling the sweet scent of my mum’s wallflowers.”
She grew up in a family of dedicated amateur gardeners — great aunts, grandparents — though her mother was the strongest influence.
“I honestly can’t remember when I actually started to garden but throughout my adult life gardening has been my relaxation and sanctuary. I lived in Scotland for a few years in my twenties and in the summer, I would be gardening until it was dark, around eleven at night. Basically, while there is a scrap of daylight still to be had you will find me outside! I have made countless mistakes and continue to do so… I think gardening is a lifelong learning curve. But the joy I get from having my hands in the soil, watching the wildlife and nurturing new life from specks of seed is immeasurably satisfying.”
Growing flowers for cutting changed how she worked. Following the rhythms of the season, rather than ordering to a brief, is what made her move away from floristry.
“I am no longer a florist but more a floral artist, using what nature provides as the season gently progresses to make arrangements that celebrate the magic of the moment in my garden.”
Attracting wildlife
Her advice for a garden with more life in it starts with what you stop doing: no chemicals, no pesticides.
“Let nature balance it all out for you — she really does know what she’s doing. But there are of course countless other ways to encourage wildlife to flourish in your space. Compost your waste and feed your soil with natural, preferably organic products. If your soil is healthy everything else follows. Provide a small pond for birds and insects, frogs and newts. An old bucket will do and the creatures you attract will sort out your slug problem for you and pollinate your plants too. Leave your grass long… Give up the mower! And if you can’t give it up completely then leave some areas to grow wilder and longer. Be a bit more messy in your gardening. Embrace the self sowers and wildflowers.”
She also leaves the autumn cut-back undone. Insects overwinter in plant skeletons, and birds feed from the seed heads.
“Basically, just be gentle in your gardening practices and enjoy the wildlife that will come as a result.”
Starting out
“Just start… You only need a windowsill. If you have a balcony that’s great; if you have three acres, well lucky you, get out there! But you only need a windowsill to begin to love and learn the art of gardening. Sowing a seed, nurturing it and then enjoying the dancing flowers, beautiful leaves or deliciously edible fruits you’ve brought to fruition… This is exciting, addictive stuff and so satisfying. You don’t need fancy equipment, lots of space or any prior knowledge. You will learn as you go along especially from your mistakes. Gardeners are a generous bunch, sharing plants, seeds and advice so it doesn’t need to be a costly hobby. Have a go and see where it takes you!”
