Name changer

So, I changed my name. Not my name, but the name of my business. And actually, part of that decision was to remove my name from the name I had given my business. For almost 10 years I have traded as “Rachel Grimes Flowers”. It has served me well…I have grown so much over those years, flowered many weddings, and learnt, learnt, learnt. It’s been quite a journey. Oh, I’ve also produced and birthed a couple of children during those years too. And now I am “The Mirror & The Veil”. There was quite a bit of time taken over whether to ampersand or not. It’s also surprising to me how much freer I feel without my name attached so blatantly to the business.

The change feels good. I’ve wanted to change my business name before but have put it off or something else has cropped up and taken my focus elsewhere (did I mention the children?). I’m glad now because this time it feels good and natural. Time in lockdown has been (mostly) well spent.

I’m going to write about my Arts Council journey elsewhere, but it was during this process that the new name formalised. The two aspects of the name represent two very important aspects of my business. “The Mirror” is a project that has taken my heart. And a project that has given me much more than I have put into it. “Mirrors” hopes to create space for those who feel unseen or undervalued by our society and culture. I feel I can contribute to this by taking portraits of others who come forward to be photographed, creating a floral tribute to accompany them and their words.

This is a great honour to me and if I can do it right I hope the experience is good and fulfilling for anyone else involved. If you want to talk with me further about the project please get in touch.

The other aspect of the name is “The Veil”. This refers to my work in the wedding industry, which has really been a constant source of inspiration and income over the years. It is such a joy to see your plans come to life for a wedding having worked so hard to bring them into reality, and to be involved with a couple who have chosen you to be a part of their day. What an incredible privilege. Wedding work will always be an area of my business that I value and want to participate in. If you want to talk with me further about creating floral designs for your wedding then get in touch!

And so, there it is. The name change. It’s happened. It feels good. And I’m intrigued to see where I go next.