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‘Camp Mother’ is a term that the owner of Orewa Beach Flowers, Joanne Reeve, is well accustomed to.
The Orewa Sea Scout leader was part of the team that won the Camp Standards with 100 per cent, at an Auckland regatta recently. To win with such distinction is a reflection of Joanne’s attention to detail, which is also evident in her new business in Hillary Square.
Although Joanne has an IT background and has a Diploma of Business Computing, she has always found enjoyment in flowers.
“I started floristry as a hobby and knew I would one day open up my own store,” she says. “I trained with Kerry Mitchell who has more than 30 years experience and then took a part-time position at Fabulous Flowers in the Whangaparaoa Plaza.”
When Joanne decided to open Orewa Beach Flowers, she invited Kerry to manage the shop.
“We cater for all types of flower needs from small bouquets to specialising in weddings,” Kerry says.
“We love to upcycle and re-purpose and have a vast collection of crafts which are 80 per cent NZ and locally made.
We stock a large range of flowers including a beautiful collection of silk flowers.”
The new shop is spacious so customers can move around and “smell the flowers”.
The store has been a labour of love for Joanne and her family. Her partner, son and stepson have all pitched in and helped design the store, and Joanne has even appointed her 12-year-old son as “merchandising manager”.
The women plan to offer night classes in flower arranging, starting at the end of this month.
“It’s a great way to share what we know and help locals learn about flowers and bouquets.”
