Plymouth florist is one of the best in the UK

From left to right: Fiona Pannell, Louise Pannell, Helen Smith and Andrea Jones at H.Watts florist in Oreston
-Credit: (Image: Katie Oborn)


A Plymouth florist has been nominated for two prestigious awards at regional and national levels. H.Watts Florist, which has been part of the Oreston community for over 70 years, has been named as one of the top-four wedding and event florists of the year across the whole of the UK in the British Florist Awards.

They have also been shortlisted as one of the top-three South West finalists in The Wedding Industry Awards, with results being announced in November.

Owners of the florist shop, mother-and-daughter duo Fiona Pannell and Louise Pannell, are excited to have finished in the top-four two years in a row now in the British Florist Awards, this year in the 'wedding and event category'.

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Their 2023 nomination came as a surprise, but this year, with continued support from the community, the recognition feels even more special.

Fiona said: “The team is elated, and it is truly well deserved for their dedicated hard work, creative skill and for their true love of the work.”

The crew is composed of florists Louise, Andrea, Helen, and Mollie, with Fiona and Jane on reception, and Alan and Phil as delivery drivers.

The business has upheld its family-run charm for decades. Kath and Harry Watts initially established the business in 1953 as a fruit and vegetable shop, expanding to floristry later on. H.Watts Florist has passed through a few different hands before Fiona and Louise, longtime locals, took ownership.

The front of H.Watts florist in Oreston has kept the original signage, giving the shop a timeless feel
The front of H.Watts florist in Oreston has kept the original signage, giving the shop a timeless feel -Credit:Katie Oborn

“I’m so proud of the way Louise has stepped up to take charge of the business,” noted Fiona. Her daughter, Louise, who is the head florist, is 'over the moon' for both herself and the team.

As head florist, Louise is responsible for guiding customers through the entire process, from initial consultation to the very moment the flowers are delivered.

Customers are guided through design options, budget expectations, and style ideas by the florists with care. A workshop room and a consultation room allow for an intimate, personalised experience for customers, which Fiona deems vital to their business.

She prides the floristry’s attention to detail, and their commitment to ensuring customers get exactly what they are looking for, whether that’s vase arrangements, bridal bouquets, or personal sympathy tributes.

Hand-tied, natural bouquets tend to be the most popular design throughout the year. And during the festive season, there is a significant increase of baskets and wreaths. Arrangement styles are diverse at H.Watts Florist, and the passionate team strive to use and celebrate seasonal flowers in their designs.

With the results for the award set to be announced in November, the anticipation is strong. Fiona and Louise remain humble despite their recognition. Their main priority is to continue providing unparalleled support to the public through “the beauty of flowers".

Fiona added: “We are part of a close-knit local community and are fortunate enough to have supportive and loyal customers who have celebrated these nominations with us. The smiles and gratitude of our customers - both returning and new - helps to make all the hard work worthwhile.”