We recently caught up with OC Emily James (2017, QA), who shared what she has been up to since leaving Cokethorpe. From her time at school and the paths she has taken since, Emily reflects on her journey so far:
‘After leaving Cokethorpe, I went on to study Textile Design at university, drawn by my love of colour, texture and creativity. After graduating during lockdown, I found myself spending more time in the garden and arranging flowers, which had always been a hobby of mine. What began as a way to stay busy and connected to nature soon grew into a business. Combining my background in design with my love of flowers, I now run Grace and Ivy Florist, specialising in wedding flowers and home fragrances, from my home studio.
Every wedding design is different, and I take great joy in crafting bespoke arrangements that reflect each couple’s vision. It’s a privilege to be part of so many love stories and to spend my days doing work that inspires me.
Looking back, I’d encourage current students to really think about their next steps after school. University can be an amazing experience, but it’s not the only route to success or fulfilment. Take some time to explore what you genuinely enjoy, try things out, and don’t be afraid if your path takes a few unexpected turns; sometimes that’s exactly where you’ll discover what you’re meant to do. I’m so proud that what started as a small lockdown project has now grown into a thriving wedding floristry business.’
Emily’s Website: Wedding Florist Cotswolds & Oxfordshire | Grace & Ivy | Bespoke Wedding Flowers
