Nicky Timberlake and Shannon Mitchison opened the doors for the first time to Lottie’s Florist Ltd on Saturday, January 24. The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Portsmouth were on hand to cut the ribbon to the new store on Allaway Avenue and they were not the only ones to come out in support.
The two friends who met when working alongside each other at Forever Together Funeral Care, were blown away by the response as a large crowd gathered for the opening.
Nicky said: “There has been a big build up to it but the reaction has been amazing look how many people have turned up. It’s very overwhelming.”
The sentiments were shared by Shannon with both of them delighted to have finally opened after picking up the keys at the start of December. She said: “It’s amazing to be open. It’s brilliant, loads of people have turned up to support us. It’s been an amazing day.”
Given Nicky and Shannon’s history in the funeral industry, they have a lot of experience with funeral arrangement but that is not the sole focus of Lottie’ Florist Ltd. The new store can also cater to a number of needs including tributes, weddings and bouquets.
Find pictures from the official opening of Lottie’s Florist below:
1. Lottie's Florist
From left, directors Shannon Mitchison and Nicky Timberlake, Lord Mayor of Portsmouth Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson and Lady Mayoress Helena Cole at the opening of Lottie's Florist. Picture: Chris Moorhouse (240126-26) | Chris Moorhouse
2. Lottie's Florist
Lottie's Florist officially opened on Allaway Avenue on Saturday, January 24. | Chris Moorhouse
3. Lottie's Florist
Sammy Williams and Hayley Gordon at the opening of Lottie's Florist. | Chris Moorhouse
4. Lottie's Florist
Theresa and Ian Grant and Tillie Mae at the opening of Lottie's Florist in Paulsgrove. | Chris Moorhouse