Botanical Press

Meet Bonnie, the creative hands and heart behind Botanical Press - transforming meaningful flowers into beautiful, handmade keepsakes that preserve memories for years to come.

Bonnie is also a local mum and one of those genuinely kind souls who pours so much heart, care and creativity into everything she does. We’re so excited to shine a little light on her wonderful small business this Small Business Saturday.

Tell us about your journey from the business idea to launching the business. 

Before I was a mum, I was an art teacher. A year in I missed making so much I didn't recognise myself. I just needed a creative outlet. I like to make things with purpose, so when we got invited to a friend's wedding and I made her a plaster Botanical tile from her bouquet, and then Botanical Press followed.

What's been your biggest achievement since starting your business?

I think one of my most humbling commissions I have ever been asked to make, was to preserve some funeral flowers. I made a vase, Coasters and candle holders. It was all made for a little boy who had lost his mum. His dad asked for these to be made so that he would have something tangible for when he began to understand the concept of her passing.

What inspired you to start the business?

My children, my want to contribute financially but still be available for my kids. It has become even more important now more than ever,  that I can be available as 3 out of my 4 children are neurodiverse, one of which suffers with anxiety and stops them from being able to regularly leave the house.

What does the future look like?

With the recent purchase of my very own kiln, I am starting to explore more sculptural pieces. I have recently created a menorial sculpture. And I am now in talks with a local school to create a large community art installation.

You will also find me at Pembury Girls Guides for their Christmas fair on the 14th November. 

BRIGHTON

St Augustine’s Arts and Events Centre on the 21st Nov 

Lewes Town Hall, on the 5th December.

Alongside other workshops.

What message would you like to send to our community of small business owners?

I think we should all pause and look at all we have achieved. I was a little girl dreaming maybe one day I would sell art and people would love and enjoy it... and now it is starting to happen. We should be proud of how far we have come!

Follow them here: @bonnieflashmanpayne