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I’m Katie-Louise, the founder of Florence & Lavender.
My business journey began in 2019, driven by a deep love for the countryside, farming, and wildlife. I always adored anything countryside related but found it often came with a hefty price tag. More importantly, I noticed a gap in the market. There was little in the way of truly personal, countryside inspired giftware. So, I set out to change that. My vision was simple: to create beautiful, personalised country artwork with the highest quality British sourced card which captures the charm of the countryside.
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With just £50 and an abundance of passion, Florence & Lavender was born at my kitchen table. Many long nights and early mornings followed, fuelled by determination and the dream of building something truly special. It was, without doubt, the hardest yet most rewarding decision I have ever made.
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Just a few months into my journey, the world faced an unforeseen challenge, the covid outbreak. Launching a business in the midst of a global pandemic was daunting, but against the odds, Florence & Lavender continued to grow. Now, five years on, I am incredibly proud of how far the business has grown.
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My work has been recognised in prestigious publications, including TATLER, VOGUE, COUNTRY LIVING, HOUSE & GARDEN, THE LADY, THE INDEPENDENT, THE WORLD OF INTERIORS, and BELLA...a true honour for a small business with humble beginnings.
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In September 2023, I was thrilled to be named Best Country Home Décor Company 2023 – UK by The Perfect Gift Awards, hosted by Luxe Life magazine. Furthermore I was blown away to be awarded with Wildlife Animal Artwork Specialist of the year 2024. This recognition means the world to me, reaffirming my dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and heartfelt design.
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You can also spot me on the Country Living Shop & Not On The High Street! Florence & Lavender is also part of Jarrolds store folk - where you can order a selection of my work - fondly known as the Selfridges of Norfolk!
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What about Katie-Louise?
Beyond Florence & Lavender, I’m a proud mum to my wonderful 13 year old son, who often lends a hand during the school holidays, whether it’s sticking postage labels on parcels or packaging your orders!
I’m also a self-confessed crazy chicken lady, with five little feathered companions who love to wander into my office unannounced (they’ve even made an appearance in a few of my designs!). A true country girl at heart, nothing brings me more joy than exploring the countryside in my wellies, with my cheeky pup by my side.
When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me enjoying the Suffolk coast with my family, kayaking on the Norfolk broads or enjoying my love for ceramics creating something out of clay!
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How does your business impact the environment?
All of the archival grade card I use is of the highest quality available and I source it direct from the UK from a small producer in the Lake District. It's also important to me that I use environmentally friendly packaging, therefore all of my packaging can be recycled. I also use a delivery service which is the most eco-friendliest delivery company in the UK.
To cut down on paper waste you will receive your invoice via Email.
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Love & best wishes...
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Katie-Louise
Florence & Lavender
Bailey my beloved Border Collie who I sadly lost in 2023. Who was a source of great comfort during those early first months when I began Florence & Lavender. He would sit by my feet during the long nights whilst I attempted to get this business off the ground. I miss him dearly.
Kx