The floral styling guru talks about setting up her cosy HQ in Singapore's hippest neighbourhood, her future plans and more.
Making ourselves at home in Charlotte Puxley’s Tiong Bahru studio, we can’t help squealing on the inside at the bounty of fresh flowers scattered around the space, waiting to be turned into gorgeous, untamed bouquets. Here, the London native works with swift fingers and a well-honed eye for colours and textures to make stunning boho-chic floral arrangements for parties, high-end restaurants, corporate events and weddings. Part of the team behind Kate Moss’ bridal bouquet, she spent five years working with flowers in London, before bringing her refreshingly modern yet romantic aesthetic to Singapore. We sat down for some tea and got to know all about her new workspace, her motto for success and more…
We absolutely love your new studio space – and this street; why did you choose this area for Charlotte Puxley Flowers?
For me, the quiet and calm aura that surrounds Tiong Bahru’s well-preserved streets is like no other in Singapore.
It’s pretty magical in here; how would you sum up the vibe?
Natural! I wanted my space to be cosy and a reflection of what we do best, so I’ve kept the decor fairly simple and rustic with bushels of blooms and my quaint collection of vases sprucing everything up.
How would you describe your style of floristry?
I’d say it’s roughly based on all things wild and wonderful, and elegant in an unruly way. My arrangements reflect the natural beauty you would stumble upon in an English countryside, but adapted to the tropics.
Your creations are incredible, yet affordable; how do you manage that?!
It’s a combination of getting to know and understanding people’s budgets, and scouring the markets to find flowers with the most value and wow factor. Working and adapting with what’s in season is the most exciting part.
When did you know this business was becoming a success?
When I got a cheery yellow van to transport my creations in – it was a momentous day when I could finally make such a big-ticket buy, and it makes me smile every day!
What were the challenges with getting started in Singapore?
Forms – there’s just so much paperwork to be done and, I must admit, I’m not the best at meticulously filling them out.
What would you have done differently?
I would’ve shipped more quirky, interesting vases from the UK. They’re much cheaper over there and it’s always nice to have as many unique options to play with. I will get more soon!
Any advice for someone who wants to set up a small business in this country?
Know exactly what your goals are, then recite them to yourself at least six times every day until you reach them.
What’s next for Charlotte Puxley Flowers?
I’m aiming to get a newly-revamped website up and running at some point, as well as start a flower farm of my own in Malaysi
Quick fire round! In Singapore, what’s your favourite…
Bar? Kilo Lounge.
Coffee shop? Plain Vanilla Bakery.
Hawker centre? Maxwell Food Centre.
Posh restaurant? Odette in National Gallery. Okay, I have yet to eat there, but I did the planting for it and absolutely love the concept!
Place to shop? Carousell and all the rubbish dumps for second-hand furniture.
Place to unwind? Any bookstore!
Charlotte Puxley Flowers, 79 Chay Yan Street, p. 9863 3510, e. [email protected]
