I’m hugely inspired by nature and the changing seasons. My floral designs are always abundant in foliage and texture and I take inspiration from the shapes and colours found in nature. My style is very natural and ‘English country garden’; I adore creeping vines and movement in my designs…”
Jemma Khan, Founder, Jemma Khan Studio
Jemma Khan runs her floristry company from the north west of England and services the surrounding area. Here we discuss Jemma’s entry into the business, her favourite blooms and her plans to expand her brand across the United Kingdom…
C&B: “Jemma, congratulations on being include in our CITY & BEACH CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW SERIES 2025; how did you first launch yourself into the floral design business?”
JK: “I grew up on a working farm and spent most of my childhood outside in nature. When I started my family, I took the leap into floristry, first going to college, and then on to the Tallulah Rose Flower School. That was the stepping stone to setting up my business…”
C&B: “Which are the most popular flowers and arrangements that your clients request, particularly for events and weddings?”
JK: “Almost always roses and peonies when they’re in season – I’m always a pusher for Hellebores and Ranunculus though!”
C&B: “How do you ensure that your floral designs reflect the personal style and preferences of your clients?”
JK: “I work very closely with my clients from the very beginning. It’s so important to me that I get to know them, how they met, their engagement story, where they like to eat, or what they do for fun. By knowing these details, I can weave some individuality into their designs. A lot also depends on the venue they’ve chosen; the look and feel of the flowers will be very different for a barn wedding compared to a stately home. I speak regularly with my clients and we’ll meet at the venue to bring their vision to life…”
C&B: “Could you walk us through your design process, from consultation to the final arrangement?”
JK: “At the enquiry stage, I send my couples some helpful documents, including a seasonal flower guide, and they send me an inspiration image. We then have a 45-minute consultation to get to know one another, talk through the elements they’re looking for, and how they want the day to feel. We work out what’s important to them and their ‘must-haves’. From there, I create a bespoke proposal and mood board to help bring the vision to life on paper. Once they’ve booked, we share a private Pinterest board, and I begin digitally designing their floral arrangements. This is a new step in my process, and I’ve found it really helpful for me, the couple, and anyone working with me on the day. I don’t work to specific stem counts, I prefer to have a good idea and then get creative. I find this gives a more organic and natural feel to my designs and makes the final piece stand out…”
C&B: “What are the challenges you most often face as a floral designer, and how do you overcome them?”
JK: “Mechanics and heat! A lot of engineering goes into creating some floral designs, and working out the mechanics can be complex. The pieces need to be stable and sturdy, and sometimes they even need to be moved mid-event, so that has to be factored in. Heat is another challenge. I don’t use floral foam and try to rely on fresh water as much as possible. When it’s really hot and the flowers are in direct sunlight, it can be a struggle, especially when creating arches!”
C&B: “How do you source your flowers, and are you able to prioritise local suppliers in your area?”
JK: “I use a mixture of British and Dutch flowers. I adore British blooms and love to use them where possible. I also work with a couple of excellent Dutch suppliers whose quality is fantastic…”
C&B: “What is the most memorable project or event, so far, that stands out in your career as a floral designer?”
JK: “I have so many, it’s hard to choose! However, one that stands out is working at the beautiful Chatsworth House last year. Not only was the venue an absolute dream, but the brief was stunning too. We used spring flowers in a green and white colour palette, which worked beautifully. All the vessels we used were in keeping with the venue and complemented the stonework perfectly. The couple were a dream to work with and gave me complete creative reign, which is always so helpful. I’m very lucky that many of my clients allow me to do this…”
C&B: “Do you ever have time to attend the RHS Chelsea Flower Show? What do you like about it, and does it impact you business?”
JK: “Unfortunately, no – this time of year is always very busy for me, so I’ve never had the time. One day I’ll make it! I adore the show from what I see in the media, and I’m constantly in awe of what is created. I take a lot of inspiration from the sustainability techniques and love learning more about plants and how to incorporate them into floral design. Chelsea Flower Show definitely inspires me creatively…”
CONTACT: http://www.jemmakhanstudio.com
