Wild Willy’s Plants & Flowers has been lifting people’s spirits since it opened in 1975. Vanessa Bishop took over the business almost 5 years ago; it’s a perfect fit for someone who is extremely personable and absolutely adores flowers.

“I was thrilled with the BIA asked me to take on the task of tending the planter just outside our front door, near the bench,” says Vanessa. “I loved the idea of creating a cheerful space where people could sit and contemplate, or gather with friends for a chat.”

Vanessa’s approach to the planter is very much like what happens inside her shop. She likes to work with seasonal elements to create something beautiful and natural, adding in a touch of the unexpected too. “The beauty of the planter often draws people into shop; we hear how much they appreciate its wild, fresh look throughout the summer.”

When not beautifying our community’s streetscape, Vanessa and her capable team can be found harnessing natural beauty to create fresh arrangements, hand-tied bouquets, terrariums and more; all are designed with the intention to inspire.

Vanessa says it really feels like a privilege to be a part of the events of people’s lives, including births, graduations, weddings, birthdays, celebrations of life and even the ‘get out of the doghouse’ moments too. “What I love most about this job is taking the time to really connect with every single customer, to understand how we can provide the best possible experience. We always try to be conscious of who the flowers or plants are for and I try to channel the client’s emotions as I create something special for them.”

Eager to share their unbridled enthusiasm for flowers, Wild Willy’s hosts bilingual fun and educational Little Florist birthday parties, suitable for children aged 5 and up. Workshops for adults (or parents & children) are also on offer – pop into the shop to find out about the lineup for this spring and summer including vintage spring botanicals and a summer garden-party themed event.

If you’ve lingered for a moment to admire the planter Vanessa tends with care, or sat on the nearby sunny bench to enjoy a coffee, we’ve got great news: a second planter and additional bench are being installed to make Wellington and Huron even more of a flower-filled haven.

For more fresh FINDs from Wellington West, check our website!

Keyword tags: WWBIA, Wellington West, Ottawa, flowers, gifts, fresh flowers, plants, terrariums, birthday parties, classes, flower arranging, flower shop, oasis, creative, design, bouquets