Katy Jensen has spent the past 25 years honing her skills as a florist, first as an apprentice, next as the co-owner of a bustling floral boutique in Ayr, and since 2016 as the Owner/Founder of PICK A POSY, creating unique floral creations for individuals, small weddings and events.
Tell us about yourself and PICK A POSY.
I have been working in the floral industry for 25 years, first as a casual after-school job at what was then Treena’s Blooms and Health in Ayr, before leaving school to join the team full-time as an apprentice florist. When Treena decided to retire a few years later, I teamed up with my sister and bought the business, changing the name to Dotty Daisy Flowers.
During this time I was also raising two young children, with my husband working FIFO, and for a while I lost my passion for flowers. We decided a change was needed, so I sold my half of the business, we moved to Townsville, and I got to enjoy some much-needed downtime with my family.
My love of flowers was always there though, and it didn’t take long before I missed creating. I started PICK A POSY in 2016 fitting out a room downstairs at home and began supplying local cafes and boutiques with my signature posy jars and bouquets, as well as taking online orders and offering local deliveries around Townsville. I also started taking on small weddings and events which kept me very busy.
What has been the most challenging aspect of starting/owning PICK A POSY?
The biggest challenge for me would have to be staying organised, and remembering to take photos and keeping on top of social media can also be challenging.
Also trying to set boundaries so that family time is separate to business.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
Working from home can get a bit lonely so I often find myself talking to my dogs or even myself. Also working late at night when everyone has gone to bed the red wine comes out just to keep me motivated.
Speaking of dogs, I have two cocker spaniels, Doug and Alice, that love to sleep all day and are excellent escape artists! They love the beach, so if you’re down near Soroptimist Park and see two dogs running amuck on their own, let me know!
What is the best piece of career or business advice you have ever received?
Don’t underestimate the value of your skill and to not worry about what other people are doing, just create your own way.
Being different makes you unique.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for PICK A POSY?
Now that my kids are older and I can spend more time working on the business, I’m hoping to give my processes a bit of an overhaul and get everything set up and running smoothly.
My main focus at the moment is to continue building my brand and making floral creations for my clients. I’m also designing a series of packages to suit small weddings and events, with more details to be announced next year – watch this space!
Please follow PICK A POSY on Facebook and/or Instagram for updates, and head to my website for any online orders or enquiries.
Main image – Katy Jensen, Owner/Founder of PICK A POSY.
Images Credits – All images supplied.
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