A YORK business which started with a barrow in High Ousegate last century is celebrating a second expansion in three years.

York Fresh Flowers has moved into Melrosegate from its former premises in Fishergate.

York Press: The new premises is much larger than the former Fishergate locationThe new premises is much larger than the former Fishergate location (Image: Kevin Glenton)

Owned and run by Paula Squires, accompanied by husband Simon and three part-time staff, the new shop is thought to be seven times the size of its old footprint.


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Simon said: "This feels like a bit of an achievement after starting from a market stall in York.

"My first stall was at 16 selling sweets."

The new premises' size means an expanded range in store which runs alongside the business' online offer.

The business is also adding candles and giftware to its existing range of cut flowers, bouquets, indoor and outdoor plants and pots.

Paula said: "I'm all self-taught in floristry, apart from a couple of night classes and our daughter Jodie is involved in flower arranging too."

York Press: The range is expanded and includes giftware and cardsThe range is expanded and includes giftware and cards (Image: Kevin Glenton)

One of Paula's most unique commissions was a bouquet in the distinct lime green and chocolate of an Aero bar in memory of a former Rowntree’s employee.

York Press: A one-off design from York Fresh FlowersA one-off design from York Fresh Flowers (Image: York Fresh Flowers)

The Fishergate site was the business’ first bricks and mortar location when it moved there in the autumn of 2020.

Simon has kept the barrow running since 1998 – it’s now near Bettys in St Helen’s Square - and provides help at the new location.

York Press: Lots of choice amongst the bouquetsLots of choice amongst the bouquets (Image: Kevin Glenton)

York Fresh Flowers now operates from a site in the east of the city in Melrosegate, which used to be Patricia May Florists.

And the business is proud to say it works with Interflora, a worldwide brand which says bouquets will be fresh, handcrafted and supports bespoke requests for favourite colours and flowers.

Wholesalers in Gilberdyke in the East Riding of Yorkshire or Leeds market are amongst York Fresh Flowers' suppliers.

The florists' most frequently sold items are traditional bouquets.