Jen’s business is blossoming with the purchase of Gosforth Florists
Posted: 30th October 2024
by Gwen Jones
After a change of career five years ago, Jen Hutchison, trained in floristry alongside her Mum. In 2021, they started their own Wedding and Event business, Jones and Jones Flowers, and just three years later, have now purchased Katherine’s Florist on Gosforth High Street, with the help of EMG Solicitors’ Commercial Property team.
Owning her own florists was only ever a dream for Jen, but as her business flourished and new opportunities arose, it started to become a possibility. Jen explains:
“We started the business from our dining room table, and as we grew, we then rented a storage container before moving to a premise on an industrial estate in Morpeth. We were servicing around 40 weddings a year, and a personal career highlight was winning a Silver-Gilt medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2023. I always had it in the back of my mind about opening a florist, but I never imagined we would do it!”
When Katherine’s Florists came up for sale, she saw the fantastic opportunity and with the encouragement of family and friends, decided to call Gwen Jones, Head of Commercial Property at EMG Solicitors. Jen said:
“A family member highly recommended EMG Solicitors and the Gosforth office is very convenient as it’s local to me and just down the road from the florists.
I thought commercial law would be intimidating, especially as I hadn’t bought a business before, but Gwen and Rebecca were fantastic and helped take the pressure off. They broke the process down and simplified each step. They listened to me and I felt like I could ask them whatever I needed. It was perfect having Rebecca on hand, always there when I picked up the phone.”
Along with the premises, Jennifer continued the employment of over 10 existing colleagues and purchased company assets including vans, to get the florists up and running straight away. Jennifer added:
“Gwen and Rebecca were very supportive and helpful throughout all stages, and really advocated for me. I received additional advice from employment solicitor, Graham Shannon, to help with documentation and HR policies. We are very proud to be keeping the existing staff.”
Jennifer is also studying to be a Master Florist, the highest qualification available. When asked about her hopes for the future, she answered:
“In the next year, I hope that new and previous customers will be using our florists, enjoying our creations and trusting us with their most precious occasions. Future plans will include new branding to add our own personal touch, and I’d like to sell cards and gifts too.
A healthy work/life balance is very important and I’d like our staff to be happy with their new management and proud of the direction that we’re going to take the business.”
Gwen Jones, Head of Commercial Property added:
“A huge congratulations to Jennifer and Blair. We pride ourselves at EMG on providing excellent client service and helping clients achieve their wildest dreams. It has been a privilege working with Jen and Blair and we are looking forward to hearing how the business progresses. I’m also sure we will be regular visitors and customers of the shop – it’s beautiful!”
Katherine’s Florists is open for business in Gosforth High Street. If you’re considering purchasing or expanding your commercial premises, please contact our Commercial Property team on 0191 500 6989.