Bristol in Bloom: local florists and Rob Ryan vase from Amara.co.uk

Since moving into our house almost a year ago, I’ve become far more aware of the little touches that brighten up a home, such as cushions, prints and flowers.

Flowers are more subtle than one would think, and just the presence of a colourful living stem on the table or window sill can make a huge difference to the feel of a room. Over the years I’ve collected glass bottles and jars to use as vases (my current favourite being Fentimans rose lemonade bottles) but I couldn’t resist this beautiful Rob Ryan vase from Amara.co.uk.

I’ve always been a fan of Ryan’s papercutting designs so I was excited when the folks at Amara said I could choose an item from their luxury online boutique to review. The pale blue flowers and main design of two children arranging their own bouquet of flowers are so unique – a colourful statement piece for my dining table.

Cut flowers are a little luxury that I always make time for when my budget allows, but now even when I don’t have any I’ll have this beautiful ‘Please smell us’ vase to cheer up my window sill instead.

Rob Ryan vase, c/o Amara.co.uk

London might have Columbia Road, but Bristol has a wealth of flower shops to choose from, which don’t have to break the bank. Here are a selection of my favourites:

Stokes Croft Flowers, Stokes Croft
A teeny tiny shop in the heart of Stokes Croft, this shop only sells in-season blooms and the owner grew up with a mum for a florist, so she knows her stuff. Great prices and interesting window displays.

The Flower Stall, Clifton
Located outside Browns on Queens Road, this pop-up stall is open from Thursday to Saturday from 9am, and sells everything from extravagant bouquets to 50p bunches of daffodils.

Central Rose, City Centre
It’s hard to miss this bright pink shop, at the bottom of Christmas Steps. Run by keen and knowledgable staff, it’s full of blooms at reasonable prices, with a wall full of colourful ribbon, paper and cellophane to choose from.

The Better Food Company, Clifton
Probably better known as an upmarket food hall and deli, this Whiteladies Road resident also sells a small selection of seasonal flowers and potted plants, such as pansies and geraniums. Not the cheapest place but you’re guaranteed only local, seasonal plants here.