All Our Blooming RESPONSIBILITY
SUSTAINABILITY POLICY
At Jacqui O, our purpose is to create the world’s most breathtaking wedding, event and occasional florals, bringing natural beauty to our clients. We aim to connect people and the environment through planet-friendly designs and build relationships by delighting our clients, suppliers and freelancers through our authentic, knowledgeable, truthful and caring approach. Our aim is to balance people, profit and planet, as sustainability is at the heart of our business.
Nature has always been close to our hearts at Jacqui O. From spending hours sitting under a tree on the family farm observing and sketching flowers as a child, to founding a rooted, sustainable business that brings clients’ dreams and celebrations to life by creating unique and mesmerising floral arrangements for their weddings, our work ultimately involves bringing nature to our clients by creating sensuous arrangements, for memories to cherish forever.
What we are doing now…
It is part of our mission at Jacqui O to drive sales through ethical and beautiful, planet-friendly products, at the same time as contributing to a greener world as it’s our responsibility to be the keeper of beauty as we depend on the earth for our profession.
Here are some of the things we are currently doing to be an authentic, caring business:
OUR FLOWERS
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'Bee friendly, Bee Kind': Luxurious, locally grown blooms that nurture nature
In 2017 we launched our ‘Bee friendly flowers’, forging strong working relationships with other businesses we trust in Cheshire and sometimes in Lincolnshire and Cornwall. As well as eliminating air miles, buying locally reduces our waste as the flowers do not come wrapped in plastic, with elastic bands. Our ‘bee friendly’ blooms have also provided food and a habitat to a vast variety of wildlife in rural Cheshire before we use them in our luxurious arrangements. We actively encourage our clients to choose this range as the Cheshire blooms are picked fewer than 10 miles away.
In 2024, 55% of our clients who value sustainability and cherish the environment chose our 'Bee Friendly' flowers, embracing designs that are as kind to the planet as they are beautiful.
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‘Best of both’: Sourcing the very best flowers grown near and far
In 2019, we proudly introduced ‘Best of Both’, our commitment to sourcing the finest flowers from near and far. Today, 90% of our blooms are locally grown, depending on seasonal availability, while the remaining 10% come from trusted international suppliers who uphold exceptional growing, working, and environmental practices.
Our partnerships with specialist growers ensure the most exquisite blooms, celebrated for their sweet fragrances and irresistible textures that beg to be touched. Adding a truly personal touch, we also nurture some of our favourite flowers and foliages in our very own secret garden. Here, fragrant herbs like rosemary and mint, whimsical meadow grasses such as ‘bunny tails,’ and romantic peonies thrive. These homegrown treasures are exclusively reserved for our luxury weddings, offering a touch of magic to our artistic creations.
This garden is more than a source of beauty; it’s my personal sanctuary—a place of tranquillity where butterflies flit, bees hum, and the songs of blackbirds and robins fill the air.
In 2024, 34% of our clients embraced our ‘Best of Both’ range, making ethical floristry choices that celebrate sustainability and thoughtful design.
'We were so lucky to find Jacqui for our wedding flowers! Not only is she exceptionally talented, as can be seen in her wide and varied portfolio, but what sealed the deal for us is that she also has an ethical mindset and offers a 'bee friendly' collection, which was in line with our ethos for the wedding'
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‘All around the world’: Importing flowers from ethical growers who care
When sourcing flowers internationally, we prioritise growers committed to sustainability and social responsibility. We only import from countries adhering to rigorous environmental standards, such as MPS A+ certification, ensuring minimal environmental impact, ethical practices, and support for local economies.
Sustainable Practices Include:
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Rainwater Reuse: Many growers use rainwater for irrigation, preserving freshwater resources.
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Renewable Energy: Solar-powered greenhouses, with surplus energy shared with local communities.
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Biological Pest Control: Utilising natural predators and protective mesh mitts to minimise chemical use.
Grower Highlights:
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Bredefleur (Netherlands): Operates energy-efficient greenhouses powered by 4,000 solar panels, with 100% rainwater irrigation and wild insect pest control.
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Alexandra Farms (Colombia): Employs eco-friendly pest management and supports local craftsmanship with reusable, hand-sewn mesh mitts for roses.
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Marginpar (Africa & Europe): Implements water-saving technologies, composts flower waste, and actively supports workers with fresh water, schools, and community initiatives.
Through partnerships with such growers, we ensure that our imported flowers not only meet the highest sustainability standards but also contribute positively to local communities and the planet.
In 2024, 6% of our clients chose our ‘All Around the World’ range, embracing ethical floristry that honours sustainability and social responsibility while staying true to their creative vision.
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‘FRESH & FAUX’ fusing silk and fresh fragrant florals to reduce waste
We’ll be honest – sourcing is complex. As eco-conscious consumers, we would love to always buy local. But different flowers need different environments to flourish so this year we have introduced silk flowers into our designs, which can be used when some items aren’t in their natural growing season, they can also be reused at multiple events to save money for the client and also reduce our stem wastage.
In 2024, 1% of our clients chose our ‘Fresh & Faux’ range, celebrating sustainable floristry and reducing waste without compromising on their vision.
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Potted Plants & bulbs that can be reused, shared and love
From time to time, we use plants or hydroponic bulbs in our floral installations and tablescapes so they can be nurtured, reclaimed and reused for future events. They can easily double up as living keepsakes for you and your guests after the big day too.
CREATIVITY AND DESIGN
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Using and exploring sustainable techniques and compostable design
We rely on our expert knowledge to employ sustainable practices and techniques in our designs, using our creativity to find alternative methods since 2017. For weddings, we incorporate materials like water, chicken wire, moss, compostable oshun pouches and twig structures to create beautiful, eco-friendly bases, especially for larger installations and funeral designs. Wherever possible, our designs are fully compostable, ensuring minimal environmental impact. We even still have some of our chicken wire structures which have been used in 100s of weddings.
We also embrace recycling and reclaiming components, with clients kindly returning items such as recycled plastic containers and chicken wire for reuse, further supporting our sustainable ethos.
In 2024, we proudly introduced our sustainable funeral flowers, with all but one design this year crafted using compostable and biodegradable materials. This reflects our commitment to honouring both loved ones and the environment, ensuring every tribute is as eco-conscious as it is meaningful.
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Enjoying, Sharing or Donating wedding flowers after the event
We believe the ceremony flowers should be repurposed so their natural beauty can be enjoyed for a little longer, while reducing the environmental impact on the world. We actively encourage our clients to take their flowers home to enjoy, are the love with their guests or we can donate their blooms to a local hospice, care home. Once our beautiful blooms have reached the end of their life, we encourage clients to dry and press a few selected stems as a keepsake.
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Avoiding waste when planning floral masterpieces
We always consider and plan the quantity of flowers and foliage we expect to use in our designs very carefully. This helps to cut down on any green waste for composting or recycling, as we hate waste. Jacqui grew up with her grandad always saying “waste not want not”. Our floristry vessels and props continue to be reinvented for our clients’ weddings and events and every dent and mark has its own story. Guided by a sustainable design ethos, we strive to:
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Refuse what isn’t necessary.
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Reduce excess.
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Reuse what we have.
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Recycle where possible.
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Compost the rest.
Every detail reflects our commitment to reducing waste while creating timeless floral artistry.
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Preloved Styling & Reducing Candle Waste
Each year, an estimated 40 tonnes of candles are discarded into landfills—a shocking amount of waste that could be reused. Recognising this, we introduced our Preloved Candles service in 2017, offering clients beautifully repurposed candles for their events. These preloved candles not only exude a unique charm but also contribute to reducing our environmental impact by being passed on to the next thoughtful client.
In 2024, we took this initiative even further by partnering with The Recycled Candle Company, ensuring that our used candles are given a second life. After illuminating your special moments, candles that have reached the end of their journey are sent to be recycled into stunning, repurposed creations. Last season alone, we recycled an impressive 2kg of candle waste—small steps making a meaningful difference.
Together, we're proving that even the smallest acts of sustainability can create a lasting impact
WASTE & RECYCLING
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Embracing recycling: every beautiful thing has a story
All our green waste is separated from any cardboard and recycled or composted and returned back into nature. Any large boxes from flower deliveries are returned to the wholesalers for re-use. Any flowers delivered in water vessels are saved and reused in our installations and floral creations over and over again. We look to everyday objects for inspiration in 2021 at RHS Tatton flower show Jacqui used recycled plastic milk bottles as her vessel and the honeycomb shelving was made from recycled garden decking as she looked to grow more bee-friendly flowers in her garden. In 2022 our exhibition was about clearing the fallen branches in the local communal green and using them as a chicken wire armature alternative.
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Saving every drop of water we can
We conserve water wherever possible, by using any excess to water our own gardens. Jacqui harvests rainwater from her home studio to fill her floral buckets and water her plants when possible as every little helps.
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Reducing emissions one footstep at a time when delivering
Our delivery routes are carefully planned to ensure the most direct route is used and reduce fuel emissions. A few of our ‘illustrious’ bouquets and donated wedding flowers were emission-free delivery in 2024 as they were delivered on foot.
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Cutting out paper from our daily life
We have streamlined our floral journey we only send electronic copies of documents to clients, and enquiries and orders are entered into our order system to eliminate paper waste and help us to be more efficient.
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Holding meetings online, reducing car emissions one meeting at a time
Our client's floral journey and experience are important to us our consultations and review meetings are held online to avoid unnecessary car travel and give the gift of time back to our clients.
‘Jacqui O is more than a name – it's a symbol of dedication, inspiration, and tireless service to the community. Her contribution to the Monton Jingle Mingle was through the lens of both tangible and intangible pieces of beauty.
Despite the event being outside her very own community and straddled by the reins of a stringent budget, Jacqui brought forth an aesthetic splendour, which became the focal point of the church event - the lichgate. Her ability to weave seasonal glory out of limited means showcased her talent and creativity in an inspiring light.
What set Jacqui apart was her commitment to sustainability, as a conscious florist. She used local, seasonal plant material, diverting from the mainstream use of imported flowers, to reduce the carbon footprint and encourage locally sourced alternatives.
Her practised 'green thumb' serves as a beacon of hope, showcasing that beauty and sustainability could go hand in hand.
Her altruistic approach shone brightly as she took time to coach the volunteers throughout the installation process. Jacqui's calm and conscientious demeanour ensured everyone had a rewarding experience. She didn't just direct, she connected with everyone, ensuring their contribution was valued and rewarding.
Thus, Jacqui O isn't just a florist but a sustainable warrior, spreading awareness about local and seasonal alternatives. She's talented, inherently joyful and an embodiment of inspiration, bringing about a change in her community through her actions and words. She's not just appreciated but deeply revered for her contribution and the positive ripple effect it creates.’
Marie Hargraves
Lead Volunteer Monton Mingle
PEOPLE & COMMUNITY
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Tree-planting restoring the wild
We have planted over 40 trees, one for every wedding with our UK partner, www.thefutureforestcompany.com, to restore native woodlands and wildlife habitats in areas destroyed by humans. Each couple received a personalised e-certificate of their tree, and the public has the right to roam. This gives our clients and the public time for forest bathing; it’s the simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees; observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and well-being in a natural way.
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Investing in our floral community
As a growing business, we don’t just have a responsibility to look after our planet. It’s on us to give back to those around us too. That's why we support the floral designers of tomorrow for the last four years we have provided work experience to the students studying in the local horticultural college as they start their journey in the flower industry. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where we exploit people’s talents to allow them to thrive and develop their ethical floristry skills.
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Sharing our knowledge of sustainable flower-arranging techniques
We’re passionate about spreading eco-friendly practices throughout our community. From waste reduction to responsible sourcing, we engage with florists, flower arrangers, and students to promote greener methods that lessen environmental impact. Through workshops and demonstrations, we showcase possibilities like foam-free arranging, upcycling materials, and selecting locally sourced, seasonal blooms. By empowering others with sustainable skills, we’re cultivating a future in floristry that embraces both creativity and environmental care.
Client Testimonial:
'Great Big thank you to you Jacqui! ......... The whole demonstration was so different to perhaps what was expected! The arrangements were beautiful with fabulous flowers, looking perfect and even more lovely on closer inspection! we all had such a good time! Thanks for all the time and thought you put into making it so special, You are fabulous! Can you tell I’m wowed! and inspired. I’m doing the advent candle in Church tomorrow ( without oasis).'
It’s moments like these that truly make our sustainable journey worthwhile.
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Collaborating with Thursd: Championing Sustainability in Floral Design
Blog writing and collaborations with Thursd a global platform that connects floral industry professionals and enthusiasts. Through this partnership, we showcase and promote sustainable practices in floral design, inspiring creativity while fostering eco-friendly innovation. Thursd is a hub for sharing trends, ideas, and expertise, and I’m thrilled to contribute to shaping a greener, more sustainable future for floriculture.
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Coaching and mentoring others supporting them to be the best
We are committed to creating an inclusive community where we exploit people’s talents to allow them to thrive and develop their skills. In 2022 our stylists were encouraged to try their hand at floristry, it was lovely to see them develop their skills. We believe our freelancers deserve a wage which meets everyday needs that’s why we pay above the recommended living wage.
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Giving a little love to causes close to our hearts
Each year, we dedicate time and resources to support a charity close to our hearts. In 2022, we donated an ‘illustrious’ bouquet valued at £288 to raise funds for Nantwich Town Disability Football, which provides inclusive football sessions for people of all ages and disabilities.
In 2023, our charity focus was Cheshire Roses, a Nantwich organisation supporting women with cancer. We hosted a complimentary ‘Flowers & Me’ workshop, aiming to bring joy and aid the healing process, as studies show flowers have a positive impact on mental health. We also donated a £65 Christmas table centrepiece raffle prize to Nantwich Buddies, raising funds for their community initiatives.
This year, in 2024, we donated 10 hours of our time to Monton Unitarian Church, decorating their Monton Mingles events in the Summer and at Christmas. The funds raised from our involvement support the preservation of the church’s treasured stained glass windows and local community initiatives.
It’s an honour to contribute to these causes, helping make a difference where we can.
What will we be doing next?
At Jacqui O, it’s our responsibility to be the keepers of natural beauty, as we are dependent on the earth for our profession. We aim to be a leader in inspiring clients with breath-taking, sensuous florals and a first-class wedding journey, so we are constantly investing in our sustainability journey, seeking ways in which we can build on our knowledge and create designs without causing further harm to our planet.
Here are some of the things we are committed to working towards:
OUR DESIGNS
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Moving to recyclable packaging one wrap at a time
As our stock of existing cellophane wrapping depletes, we will move to wrapping our ‘illustrious’ gift bouquets in recyclable paper.
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Return, Reuse, Renew: Embrace the Revolution for a Sustainable Tomorrow
At Jacqui O, we believe sustainability begins with small, thoughtful actions. That’s why we want to build awareness of our Return, Reuse, Renew initiative, designed to give vases, containers, and accessories a second life. With every returned item, clients help us reduce waste and embrace a greener future—one vase at a time. As a thank-you for this eco-conscious effort, participants receive a £5 discount on their next purchase. Our hassle-free collection service during deliveries makes it easier than ever for clients to contribute to this revolution. Together, we can shape a sustainable tomorrow and foster a community of care for our planet.
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Using sustainable & compostable materials in our approach
We plan to move all our Christmas wreaths to compostable willow frames and decorate them in a more sustainable manner, for example, using fewer accessories and making those that we do use more natural, such as replacing wire binding with string.
To further reduce our environmental impact, we want to continue to actively encourage our wreath recycling scheme, allowing clients to return their wreath frames and decorations for reuse.
In 2023, 50% of our clients participated in this initiative, helping us keep materials out of landfills and contributing to a greener future.
WASTE & RECYCLING
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Naturally dried flower and foliage stems o extend their lifespan
We will build upon drying our leftover flowers and foliage to create sustainable options for winter designs. This practice not only adds longevity to the season but also offers clients unique, eco-conscious choices.
Each arrangement tells a story of thoughtful craftsmanship, giving flowers a second life while embodying beauty and sustainability. These enduring creations reflect our commitment to blending artistry with environmental care.
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Reducing the use of man-made plastics
We will keep plastic use to a minimum and only use it where alternatives are not feasible. While we are unable to recycle single-use plastic wraps at this stage, we will look to use our knowledge and experience, and influence the wedding and floral industry in finding alternative materials and choose those where possible who supply their flowers without wraps use eco-friendly alternatives.
OUR BUSINESS PRACTICES
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Investing in sustainability for a sustainable future
In 2024, we proudly achieved Sustainability Accreditation from the Wedding Sustainability Alliance, a testament to our unwavering commitment to eco-conscious practices. Continuous learning is at the heart of our mission. We are dedicated to expanding our knowledge through sustainable courses, enabling us to explore innovative and alternative design methods that align beauty with environmental care.
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Hiring props online giving clients an ethical choice
In 2025, we’re launching an online prop hire shop, offering clients a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new items. This platform will showcase our collection of props, allowing clients to hire pieces perfectly suited to their special occasions, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable approach to event planning.
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Calculating our carbon footprint giving us great transparency
We will investigate our carbon emissions by calculating our footprint emissions, through the collective climate action platform, Ecologi. We will also look for continuous improvements by making a conscious effort to make reductions and offset where needed.
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Keeping clients informed on our ethical approach and sustainable practices
We will continue to inform clients about sustainability and tell positive stories about their flowers, so they trust us to be a honest and caring business that has sustainability at its heart.
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Digital Decluttering for a Greener Footprint
We regularly take steps to reduce the environmental impact of our digital operations. This includes decluttering business electronics, responsibly recycling or refurbishing old devices, and managing our digital communications to minimise our contribution to the digital world's 3% global greenhouse emissions.
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Going electric
We plan to purchase an electric vehicle by 2030, , further reducing our environmental impact and leading by example in sustainable business practices.
PEOPLE & COMMUNITY
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Sharing is caring and supporting the well-being of others and connecting with the community
We will strive to make meaningful connections for our communities to thrive - as every flower has a story, so does every human. We will look to support local causes close to our hearts in our hometown. Our charity for 2025 is ‘Nantwich Buddies’, a friendly face, a helping hand. Nantwich Buddies provides a spectrum of vital services our home town, from shopping support to companionship, serving as a valuable hub of information for the community's well-being.
OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR SUSTAINABILITY PROMISES IS ONGOING AND THIS POLICY WILL BE REVIEWED ANNUALLY.
Author: J. Owen
Updated: 7 Dec 2024