The Bloom Foundry, Tunbridge Wells

FUNKY FLOWERS & ANTIQUES

We love this Florist and Antiques Shop on St John’s Rd, Tunbridge Wells, which is an eclectic mix of all things floral with a twist of antique and interior treasures thrown in. No surprises, then, that it won The Best Florist in Kent, as voted by you in the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2021.

Over 15 years ago, owner Lucie Merkl studied floristry at Hadlow College but then had to put her floristry dreams on the back burner when she discovered she was pregnant with the eldest of her three boys. She then started antiques dealing online to begin with before branching out to selling to other dealers and at decorative fairs.

So it was only natural that when Lucie eventually opened her flower shop it would also include the stunning interior items she sources – and every piece in her store has a story to tell. The Bloom Foundry is the perfect marriage of Lucie’s love of collating gorgeous antiques and her funky floral talents.

WEDDING FLOWERS & WORSHOPS

Lucie is one of our go-to girls when we want to gift our friends flowers. She also runs a selection of brilliant workshops throughout the year (like wreath making at Christmas) – and creates stunning wedding flowers too.

You can’t miss the shop, which opened in 2019, as it’s coral pink. Here you’ll find beautiful fresh seasonal flowers from Cornwall, fresh plants or faux plants, easy-to-care-for house plants and stunning silk flowers. All surrounded by unusual antique items – from cabinets and prints to pots and vases.