2025 was a tough year. As a new business owner at 53, admittedly with some previous business skills, starting from scratch alone, from nothing, was incredibly daunting. As I never do things the easy way, add to that a family bereavement, fallout after ending an unhealthy, harmful relationship and the unnecessary legal battles that these inevitably produce, I made my life even harder!
I learned a lot! I learned about business, growing from seed, that I’m pretty handy with powertools, have an incredible family & that if I stop being so independent and ask for help when I need it, that I am a lot stronger than I ever gave myself credit for. I also realised that, despite all the negativity in the world, that there is an ocean of kindness in the world and people who want you to succeed. (As long as you show them the reality of the failures too, they love a good giggle at your expense!)
So back to 2026. While there are still challenges in my life, I am so excited for this year. It honestly feels like I am living the life of a different person!
So what’s the news? I am officially a farmer! I finally own the land that Hollyhocks Hideaway and Hideaway Flower Farm are growing on, and enjoying everything that spring is throwing our way. It’s been a long time coming and I have a LOT of work ahead of me, but I don’t feel like an imposter anymore. (Well, not all the time at least)
Both sides of the business are growing. I have invested in 3 new 6m bell tents for incredible stays with us here on the flower farm. We are constructing a polytunnel so that we have a growing space on site which will help with both seed sowing and propagation, but also with overwintering and early season flowers. At the end of the summer I will slowly take over the rest of the farm.
Plans include replanting lost meadows, pond creation, a fully enclosed dog run area, developing outdoor event areas for beautiful woodland wine tasting evenings as well as being perfect for courses. We will also have a dedicated bushcraft and skills area (we are NOT mixing wine with axes, that would get us the wrong reputation!)
Lots to do and not as much time as I’d like to get things done, but it’s going to be an adventure.
I look forward to having you along for the ride!
Best wishes from Hollyhocks Hideaway and Hideaway Flower Farm x