Budding Middlesbrough business blooms in nick of time

Mar 9 2010 by Iain Laing, The Journal

A MOTHER and daughter have teamed up to see their plans for a florists shop blossom in time for Mothering Sunday.

Karen Simpson and Jane Rogan have opened Matilda’s Florist on Grange Road in Middlesbrough just in time to start selling for one of the flower market’s biggest days of the year.

Their flower shop – which boasts flowers of all shapes, colours and sizes for all occasions, including weddings and receptions – has come about thanks to a partnership between Karen and Jane and entrepreneur Matt Daniel.

Matt, who studied business at Northumbria University and has already established a successful catering business, Jacksons, is looking forward to the new challenge.

He said: “I’m delighted to announce the opening of Matilda’s.

“Jane and Karen are the flower experts and run the shop on a day-to-day basis, while I manage the business side of things, including the marketing and finances.

“Together I think we make a great team and, hopefully, we will be able to make a name for ourselves as a top florist in Middlesbrough.”

Karen, who nurtured her entrepreneurial ambitions when worked at Danby’s florist in Hebburn on Tyneside for three years, said: “It’s fantastic to be working with my daughter Jane doing something we’re so passionate about.

There has been lots of hard work put into it so far and it’s great to see the shop fully stocked and finally opened in time for Mother’s Day.”