TAFE NSW Graduate, Carmen Well’s Morisset business isn’t just blooming it’s booming. So much so that with her team, she was awarded Sydney Markets Fresh Awards Florist of the Year.

Since graduating from a Certificate III in Floristry in 2011, Ms Wells has opened her floristry business, Bella Floral Boutique, has serviced hundreds of weddings and events, won florist of the year and employed two other TAFE NSW graduates.

Ms Wells has combined her experience from a previous career as a bank manager, with her floristry skills to create a successful business and a space to encourage others to learn and be creative.

“After having worked in a career that was quite regimented with regulations and dealing with facts and figures, I felt I need to get in touch with my creative side. Being a florist is so satisfying, it’s my job to make people’s day.”

Two TAFE NSW students have undertaken work placement through the business so far with a third starting in early 2022.

“I take on TAFE NSW students for work placement to inspire further learning and help others hoping to enter the industry. I have always been a big believer in continued learning and showing students what being a florist is really like,” Ms Wells said.

Despite many industries and small businesses taking a hit as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the floristry industry has seen a major spike in demand as Australians opt to send their loved ones bouquets during tough times and in the lead up to Christmas.

TAFE NSW Floristry Teacher Lynda Coburn suggested a Certificate III in Floristry offered a good start for those hoping to enter the industry.

“Carmen is one of our many career change success stories. Our high-quality practical training delivered by industry qualified teachers, is the perfect combination to equip our students with the latest techniques and ensure they graduate with the skills and confidence to meet the growing needs of industry.”

As for florist of the year’s pick of the bunch for Christmas table decorations, “natives, they last so long and are beautiful even when they dry,” said Ms Wells.

For more information about courses at TAFE NSW or via TAFE Digital, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Sarah Lievore, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au