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Surrounded by an array of elegant, beautifully-arranged flowers and plush antiquities is a world away from Julie Duncan’s former life as a pharmacy owner.
She knew setting up her business, Myrrh & Co Florist, would be a huge project, especially given she was starting afresh in a new city, but it was a challenge she had always yearned for.
Faced with an empty nest, the ever-increasing buzz and energy of Mount Maunganui appealed to fast-mover Julie, who shifted from Opotiki after 30 years in the sleepy coastal town, and her new location balanced the calm and serene therapeutic aspects of her newfound floristry work.
“I wanted a change and a lifestyle that offered me more choices like arthouse movies, more yoga and exercise options and a chance to start the business,” explains Julie. “I’ve always loved flowers and I’d done a lot of wedding and event staging for friends and family, so this seemed like a natural transition.”
Despite having a few concerns, Julie crossed her fingers and threw herself into it head first.
“I was mildly freaked out about the whole business thing – whether it would it work,” says Julie. “While I’ve always loved and ‘done flowers’ I’d never actually bought and sold them, so I had a hell of a lot to learn.
“I think I’ve been successful as I have a point of difference,” she continues. “I’ve created a uniquely beautiful space where my customers can enjoy a relaxed and opulent shopping experience.”
Julie’s plans for the future include finding ways to increase her online presence and developing close relationships with funeral directors to provide a meaningful service around bereavement flowers.
Click through for A Photo diary: A typical week for Julie.
“Most mornings are busy; I check orders then arrange to pick up the stock I need, make bouquets and serve customers – I spend quite a lot of time chatting with my clients! I unpack stock, change water buckets and do deliveries.”
“Some days I go out to local growers to collect fresh flowers in the morning, other days I receive deliveries from Auckland in the afternoon. Whatever the day, I’m always on the go!”
“I often get up early for flower markets, make myself a coffee and check over my list for the day”
“Having a lot of boot space is essential for all those flowers.”
“I’m often travelling around the North Island to visit clients and events so I usually hook up my phone with Bluetooth and use maps.”
“My favourite part of the job is creating bouquets and chatting!”
Planning a bold move of your own? The Mitsubishi ASX is the perfect partner in crime. Test drive one at your local dealership today. mmnz.co.nz
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