My Story: A Lifelong Bloom in the World of Floristry

My name is Valerie Guest, and floristry has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember. Today, I have the privilege of serving as President and Events Officer of the Northumberland and Durham Area and the Chairman of Ferryhill, Sedgefield & District Flower Club, a role that allows me to combine my love of flowers with my passion for community, creativity, and shared learning.

My journey began in the lively world of floristry retail, where I ran successful flower shops and learned the delicate balance between artistry and customer care. Those shops were more than businesses to me—they were warm, colourful havens filled with fragrance, inspiration, and the joy of helping people express their feelings through flowers. Every bouquet I created carried a little piece of my heart.

As time went on, I felt called to share my knowledge more widely. Moving into demonstrating and leading workshops opened a whole new chapter. My demonstrations became opportunities not just to teach techniques, but to tell stories—blending humour, history, and heartfelt enthusiasm. Through workshops, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless hands as they discover the magic of transforming stems and blooms into expressions of joy, remembrance, and celebration.

In my role as President and Events Officer, I strive to be both a steady guide and an encouraging presence. I work to foster a strong sense of community while keeping creativity at the centre of everything we do. Whether I’m coordinating events, supporting members, or welcoming newcomers with warmth, I aim to help our club flourish in every sense.


Every bouquet I’ve crafted, every workshop I’ve led, and every event I’ve helped bring to life has been part of a lifelong journey rooted in beauty, connection, and shared passion. I’m grateful for every moment—and the floral world continues to enrich my life in ways I could never have imagined.