Blossoming Creativity: Jules’ journey as a Florist after Illustration degree

Growing up, Jules Hefferon had always been creative. Although he was “unsure of which direction to go in”, It didn’t come as a surprise when he chose to study BA (Hons) Illustration at the University of Central Lancashire as he felt that this would be the natural path for him to take, knowing for certain that he eventually wanted to work in a “creative hands-on industry”.

After Jules graduated, the pandemic had hit and work opportunities were limited so Jules decided to make good use of his time by undertaking a Floristry course at a local college. “This gave me practical floristry skills which fit well with my design and illustration background honed at UCLan and enabled me to get into my first professional floristry role”, he said.

Over time, Jules gained knowledge in a wide variety of floral arrangements by working with several florists in various settings and for various occasions. Whilst working with others, Jules always made sure to weave in his own personal practice, which developed his confidence and individual floral style.

Despite having never envisioned himself as a Florist, Jules said his time at University helped him develop knowledge and design ideas and gave him the confidence to make the most of his personal style and branding, leading him to open up his own business, Floryn Flowers.

His duties not only involve being a Florist and a floral designer, he also manages his business social media accounts, deals with logistics, takes wedding and funeral consultations, and captures all the photography and imagery of his designs. He said: “My creative background has given me the freedom to develop and focus on my own personal style and move away from more traditional floristry to offer something a bit different. My focus in on artistic, contemporary, organic, and sustainable floral design.”

Jules is thankful for his time at the University of Central Lancashire as he believes it helped propel his current career. As a creative person, Jules was fond of the “wide range of fantastic facilities” he had access to. He said: “As an illustration student I had access to the photography studios, darkrooms, and printmaking facilities which I really valued. The tutors were also a key memorable component of my time at University; they were hugely supportive and inspirational so much so that I keep in touch with them today.” In his final year of study, Jules entered the D&AD New Blood awards and was thrilled to win a One to Watch award.

Jules is proud of what he’s achieved, and some moments have stood out to him. He said: “The first time I created a couple’s wedding flowers goes down as a great achievement for me. Being in sole charge of the whole process from consultation to design and set up was something I felt nervous about. Fortunately, the wedding was successful and the couple loved my work. It gave me a great boost of confidence and showed me that I am a capable florist.”