‘Wow! That sounds amazing. Yes, please.’ The Ramparts Hotel was Whitsborough Bay’s only five-star hotel and was huge. Events like this were very well-attended.
‘I’m the manager at The Ramparts,’ Kate said. ‘The floristry contract is up for renewal. Our current florist has served us well but we want to move in a different direction, creating displays that wow rather than just look pretty. I’ve been keeping an eye on your work and I’m impressed.’
‘Thank you.’ My head was spinning. I’d only been in The Ramparts a couple of times but I remembered there being flowers everywhere. A contract with them would be extremely lucrative.
‘As an independent hotel, we like to work with local suppliers so you tick that box. I personally work off a combination of gut-feel and talent. Early indications are positive. If you’re interested in pitching for the contract, let’s set up an appointment for the New Year. If you can meet our needs at the right price, I won’t approach anyone else for a quote.’
‘No pressure then,’ Skye said, laughing as she gently nudged her sister.
‘Wow again! I don’t know what to say. That’s an amazing opportunity. Thank you.’
The shop had filled up again and we were getting jostled. Kate reached into her jacket pocket and handed me a business card. ‘If you call my PA on Monday, she can set up a meeting for the New Year.’
‘I will. Thank you again, both of you. This is amazing.’
Kate smiled. ‘You’re very welcome. We’ll let you get back to your customers.’
I walked them to the door and stepped out onto the cobbles. ‘Can I ask you something, Kate?’
‘Of course.’
‘I’m flattered and excited to have this opportunity, but I’m curious as to what made you think of me. I thought most businesses would have wanted a more established florist for something like this.’
‘That’s a good question, but someone sang your praises so highly that I felt I had to come and see for myself.’
I grinned at Skye. ‘Thank you. I think I owe you a drink or two.’
Skye shook her head. ‘It wasn’t me.’
I frowned. ‘Then who?’
‘It was Skye’s friend Nick,’ Kate said.
My heart raced. ‘Nick? Really?’
Kate nodded. ‘He was designing a new brochure for us and he asked who supplied the flowers. I told him the contract was up for renewal so he asked if I’d considered you. I told him I was aware that Seaside Blooms had changed hands and I wasn’t going to give such a big contract to a new business but he nagged me for days and I realised he wasn’t going to shut up until I agreed to visit your shop. Once I’d seen your work I knew it was exactly what we wanted so I think it’s Nick you owe a few drinks to.’
The door opened and Jade poked her head out. ‘Sorry, Sarah. Mum needs you for a minute.’
‘Be right in,’ I said.
Kate shook my hand again. ‘I look forward to seeing you next year. I think this could be the start of a great partnership.’
As they set off down the cobbles, Skye turned round, gave me a thumbs up and mouthed the words, ‘It’s yours.’
Back inside, I dealt with Cathy’s query then picked up my mobile, smiling widely.
?? To Nick
Skye & Kate have just been to the shop. You might have just won me a huge contract at The Ramparts. I owe you so much thanks that I don’t think words will cut it… I may have to show you my appreciation later xxx
I hesitated as I re-read it. It was quite brazen for me. Oh, what the heck… send.
?? From Nick
So pleased for you. I knew you’d wow her. I’d say you don’t have to thank me… but on re-reading your text, perhaps you do! Can’t wait xxx
The shop continued at a steady pace for the next couple of hours but at 5 p.m., things finally slowed down so I gathered my team round me. ‘Thank you all for working so hard today. The rush is over so I want you all to get your coats and bags, grab another cake, biscuit or both, and go home early. Clare and I can cope, can’t we Clare?’
