Meet the team
T H E S T O R Y B E H I N D W E S T M A L L I N G F L O W E R S
Hello, I’m Nikki Meader, and I’d like to share a bit about the journey that led to the creation of West Malling Flowers. My story is one of returning to my roots, embracing a lifelong passion, and building something truly special with my family in the heart of Kent.
Growing up, flowers were more than just beautiful arrangements in our home; they were part of our daily lives. My mother was a florist, and my father was a greengrocer, so I was surrounded by nature’s vibrant colours and scents from a young age. Despite this, my initial career path took me in a different direction, I trained as an accountant. However, it wasn’t long before the pull of the floral world brought me back to what I love most.
In 2011, after years of honing my skills and knowledge, I decided to take the plunge and opened West Malling Flowers. It was a significant moment, not just for me, but for my entire family, who have been involved in the florist trade for over 40 years. What started as a small, local flower shop has blossomed into a thriving business, serving the community with beautiful, carefully crafted arrangements that bring joy to every occasion.
But West Malling Flowers is more than just a business to me; it’s a deeply personal venture. Every bouquet and arrangement is created with care and attention as if it were for a dear friend. The shop reflects not only my passion but also the collective efforts of my family and our fantastic team, who work tirelessly to bring our customers' visions to life. I’m incredibly proud to say that our hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. West Malling Flowers was honoured
with the title of BFA Retail Florist of the Year in 2015 and 2016, a recognition that still fills me with pride.
Beyond the shop, I’ve also had the privilege of serving as the Chair of the British Florist Association since 2018. In this role, I’m committed to supporting our industry, mentoring the next generation of florists, and contributing to events like the BFA FleurEx trade fair, which has become a key date in the florist calendar.
In addition to my work with the BFA, I’m passionate about giving back to the local community. Whether it’s through charity days or special events, West Malling Flowers is always eager to lend a hand and make a difference where we can.
Nikki
Russell
The Man, The Myth, The Legend
Known affectionately by some as "Flower Man," Russell is the backbone of West Malling Flowers, always on the move and making things happen. While Nikki might have a few other names for him (we'll keep those between us!), there's no denying his dedication and energy. From early morning deliveries to late evening errands, Russell is the one who ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Whether it’s maintaining the shop, building relationships with local businesses, or simply spreading positivity wherever he goes, Russell is the ultimate "can-do" person. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his commitment to our customers and community is unwavering. He’s also our resident snack provider, keeping the team fuelled with a steady supply of delicious treats.
If you happen to see Russell out and about in the van, don’t forget to give him a wave he’s always ready with a smile and a friendly word!
Shelly
The Creative Force Behind Our Stunning Displays
Shelly has been an integral part of West Malling Flowers since the very first day we opened our doors 14 years ago. As our longest-serving team member, she has truly taken root here, becoming a cornerstone of our shop's success and a beloved figure amongst our customers.
With an eye for detail and a flair for design, Shelly’s floristry skills are nothing short of exceptional. Whether she’s working with fresh blooms, silk, or dried flowers, her arrangements always stand out. Her loyal customer base is a testament to the artistry and care she brings to every creation. Many local businesses depend on Shelly for striking reception designs that leave a lasting impression, and her role in our team is absolutely invaluable.
Shelly is also the creative mastermind behind all the beautiful displays you see in and outside of our shop. Her passion and dedication shine through in every arrangement, making West Malling Flowers a truly special place.
Sian
Our Wedding and Events Visionary
Sian is a dynamo of creativity never letting the grass grow under her feet. As our Wedding and Events Manager, she’s the driving force behind some of the most stunning weddings and events in the area, consistently turning dreams into reality with her fresh, modern ideas.
Whether she’s crafting daily bouquets, designing breath-taking wedding arrangements, or hosting one of our popular floristry workshops, Sian brings passion and enthusiasm to everything she does. She especially loves working closely with happy couples, ensuring that every detail of their floral vision is perfectly realised on their big day.
In addition to her work in the shop, Sian has built a loyal following with her workshops, inspiring others with her skills and creativity. Outside of work, Sian enjoys spending time with her gorgeous little boy, who bring as much joy to her life as she brings to our team.
Bex
Senior Florist and Bespoke Funeral Work Specialist
Becca, one of our Senior Florists, has a true talent for creating the prettiest arrangements that can light up any room. If peonies are on the order, you might catch her doing a few celebratory star jumps after all, they’re her absolute favourite flower!
After taking some time off to welcome her beautiful little boy, Becca has returned to us, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. In addition to her stunning floral designs, she now takes the lead in our bespoke funeral work, handling each piece with the utmost care and sensitivity.
When she’s not crafting beautiful arrangements or spending time with her family, Becca loves to unwind with a well-deserved spa day. We’re incredibly lucky to have her as part of our team!
PAULA
Our Thoughtful Florist with a Creative Touch
Paula is a valued member of the West Malling Flowers team, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a genuine love for floristry. Having started her career as a florist at just 16, her passion for creating beautiful arrangements has always been at the heart of what she does.
After taking time away to raise her two wonderful children, Paula returned to floristry with a renewed enthusiasm, embracing once again the creativity and joy that working with flowers brings. Her calm approach and eye for detail shine through in every bouquet she creates.
Paula’s passion is truly infectious, and her thoughtful nature makes her a much-loved part of the team. We’re so pleased to have her bringing her experience and creativity into the shop every day.
BECCA
Our Floral Powerhouse
Becca is one of our talented senior florists and a key part of the West Malling Flowers team. She has a true passion for all aspects of floristry, from weddings and gift work to thoughtful funeral designs, and brings skill and care to everything she creates.
Known for her speed and efficiency, Becca is like a machine in floristry, working quickly without ever compromising on quality. Her calm and organised nature helps keep everything running smoothly, even during our busiest periods.
Before returning to her love of flowers, Becca worked as a cabin crew member, and her professionalism and attention to detail shine through in her work every day. She is an invaluable member of the team.
LELDE
Our Creative Spirit of the Seasons
Lelde is one of our senior florists, bringing with her a wealth of experience and creativity. She trained as a florist in her home country of Latvia and has been living in the UK for over 15 years.
Her passion for floristry is rooted in creativity and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of flowers. Lelde especially loves the changing seasons, drawing inspiration from the colours, textures and materials each one brings.
With her artistic eye and thoughtful approach, Lelde creates designs that feel both natural and unique. We’re delighted to have her as part of the team and look forward to seeing her creativity continue to shine.
LISA
The Organising Force Behind the Scenes
Lisa has been with West Malling Flowers since the very beginning, helping us open our doors 14 years ago. Originally taking a break from her successful career in Recruitment, Lisa quickly became an invaluable part of our team. Though she returned to recruitment for a few years and later took time off to raise her beautiful daughter, we’re thrilled to have her back with us once again.
Lisa’s role in the shop is vital she’s the one who keeps everything running smoothly and ensures that we’re always organised. In a bustling florist shop where creativity can sometimes lead to a bit of chaos, Lisa’s knack for tidiness is a unique and much-appreciated strength. Her attention to detail and ability to stay on top of everything makes our work environment not only more efficient but also more enjoyable.
We’re incredibly grateful to have Lisa’s steady hand guiding us, and we can’t imagine the shop without her.
GRACE
Our Budding Florist with a Sparkle
Grace joined West Malling Flowers in the summer of 2025 and is currently studying floristry at Capel Manor College, combining her education with hands-on experience in the shop on a part-time basis.
She has a real love for flowers and is always eager to learn, developing her skills day by day while gaining valuable experience in a busy retail environment. Grace is naturally friendly and great with customers, bringing a warm and welcoming presence to the shop.
Alongside her growing floristry skills, Grace is also our star cleaner, keeping everything looking its best behind the scenes. We’re proud to support her journey as she continues to grow and flourish in the industry.
Lacie
Our Budding Florist with a Big Heart
Lacie is our apprentice florist, currently working towards her Level 2 floristry qualification remotely with Sheffield College while gaining hands-on experience in the shop.
She’s a fun-loving and enthusiastic member of the team, always ready to get stuck in and help wherever she’s needed. From supporting day-to-day floristry to working behind the scenes, Lacie plays an important and much-appreciated role in keeping everything running smoothly.
With her natural way with customers and eagerness to learn, Lacie is developing her skills every day. We’re proud to be part of her floristry journey and to watch her confidence continue to grow.
FREYA
Our 24/7 Flower Fairy
Freya is the lovely face behind our stand within Parkfoot Garage, where our flowers are available to purchase 24/7. She carefully wraps and prepares all the flower bunches and bouquets that keep the stand looking fresh, full and ready for customers at any time of day.
A close friend of Nikki, Freya first stepped in to help during a busy Mother’s Day, and never really left! Since then, she has become an important part of the team, helping us extend our flowers beyond the shop and into the local community.
With her care and attention to detail, Freya ensures that every bouquet on the stand is beautifully presented and ready to brighten someone’s day, whenever they need it.
Jen
The Spreadsheet Wizard Behind the Scenes
Jen joined the West Malling Flowers team at just the right moment, swooping in to save the day when paperwork was piling up and things were starting to feel a little overwhelming. Since then, she has become the backbone of our administrative operations, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
With a talent for spreadsheets that far surpasses what most florists can imagine, Jen has an incredible ability to turn numbers and data into something that actually makes sens, ensuring our accounts are always in perfect order. Her expertise in finance and organisation is invaluable, allowing the rest of the team to focus on what we do best: creating beautiful floral designs.
Following time away on maternity leave after welcoming her baby boy, Jen is now firmly back at the heart of the business, keeping us all on the straight and narrow and making sure the business side of things is just as well cared for as the flowers we work with.
Rosemary
The Sunshine of West Malling Flowers
Rosemary is much more than one of our delivery drivers. Whether she’s helping customers, lending a hand to the florists, or keeping us all energised with endless cups of tea and her legendary home-made cakes, Rosemary is always there with a smile and a kind word.
Her unwavering positivity and "look on the bright side" attitude are infectious, even when life throws challenges her way. Rosemary’s resilience and sunny disposition make her an integral part of the West Malling Flowers family. She’s helps make things runs smoothly while bringing joy to everyone she meets.
We’re incredibly lucky to have Rosemary on our team, and her contributions, both big and small, are deeply appreciated by all of us.
Jodie
Our Award-Winning Floral Star
Jodie is Nikki’s niece and an award-winning florist in her own right. She first trained with us after leaving school, developing her skills and passion for floristry right here at West Malling Flowers.
Since then, she has gone on to build her own successful floral event business, creating beautiful designs for weddings and events. Despite her busy schedule, Jodie still returns to support us during our peak times, bringing her talent, experience and calm professionalism back into the shop.
It’s always a pleasure to have her working alongside us again, and we’re incredibly proud of everything she has achieved.
Lou
The Smile Behind the Shop
Lou is a great friend of Nikki’s and the smiling face behind so many of our busiest days. She joins us during peak times, bringing with her a huge personality and a genuine love for helping people.
With a natural warmth and enthusiasm, Lou has a real gift for guiding customers, helping them choose the perfect flowers with confidence. Whether it’s a thoughtful gift or a special occasion, she makes every interaction feel easy and enjoyable.
Her energy, positivity and willingness to help make her a much-loved part of the team, both by us and by our customers.