Meet Philipa Day, the abstract painter turned florist and collaborator of our AW19 campaign.
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN GROWING UP?
I always wanted to be my own boss, I dreamed of having my own little creative space where I would sell art and make people coffee. I’ve modified that dream a little but providing a creative service people love is a great feeling.
WHY DID YOU BECOME A FLORIST?
After years of painting abstract art I decided to put my creativity into another craft - I became obsessed with English gardens and nature and this is where I found floristry.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE WORLD?
My allotment - I chose a small plot in a hidden allotment in front of a deer sanctuary in Essex. It is a truly beautiful, peaceful place. I absolutely love it there. As well as being able to grow my own flowers (the dream) it also provides a perfect break away from city life - much needed as a contrast to London living.
HOW HAS YOUR BACKGROUND INFLUENCED WHO YOU ARE TODAY?
Hard work and family have been a key part of my background - my dad was an amateur artist when he was younger but became a black cab driver to provide for my mum and his three children (including me the youngest) - he often says that he is living his dream through me doing my own thing. I have watched him work 13 hour days for years and whenever it gets hard I remember how lucky I am to have the opportunity to do my own thing.
WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?
Being on your own! I always had a social life, I worked in hospitality for years to get money for my paint materials so and I was surrounded by charismatic people a lot of the time and at Uni and school before that. It would be great to be in an environment where you were surrounded by like minded people - I think I would be much more productive - but that’s not the reality when you’re starting your own small business.
BEST ADVICE YOU'VE EVER BEEN GIVEN?
Believe in yourself. Simple but sometimes so hard.
HOW DID YOU FIND THE EXPERIENCE OF COLLABORATING ON THE SET DESIGN FOR MARLOW'S AW19 CAMPAIGN?
I loved it! It was so fun being creative with other creators, Chloe allowed me to have complete control over the floral side of it and I feel it worked so well and was very natural. The flowers and Chloe's beautiful products worked like a dream! It has inspired me to delve into the floral styling route.
WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS?
Being happy and doing what works for you.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE?
‘You are far greater than you know, and all is well’ - Kahlil Gibran - my boyfriend always says it to me when I’m struggling!
FAVOURITE INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT TO FOLLOW?
@templeofleaves - I adore this account, I love the use of colour and every post will fill your mind with inspiration!