A family florist has come up with a blooming good idea to help fellow businesses and put some sparkle into the run-up to Christmas.

Hillview Flowers & Events has invited two gift businesses – Honeybun Wax Melts and Little Festive Treats – to sell their products in its Bournemouth shop.

The Mini Christmas Market is held on Friday and Saturday, December 11 and 12.

It aims to encourage people to shop and support local.

Covid-compliant Christmas workshops will be running all day with examples of putting table centrepieces together.

Danielle Street, 31, who owns Hillview Flowers & Events with her mum Tracey, 57, said: “We thought it would be a nice thing to do, helping fellow businesses.

“Jenna (Hoyle) of Little Festive Treats and Jessica (Burgess) of Honeybun Wax Melts are both really appreciative.

“It’s about offering the community something a little festive while helping two small businesses share and sell their products.”

Danielle and Tracey acquired Hillview Flowers & Events in 2009.

The shop doubled in size when it moved across the road to its current premises in New Parade, Hill View Road, two years ago.

It now operates two vans and employs five people – Danielle and Tracey as well as Hayley Rowe, Emily Worrell and Sophie Scott.

Hayley has been with the business nine years and Emily six years.

Danielle’s passion for floristry blossomed in 2004 when she volunteered as a Saturday assistant while still at school.

She then spent two years with another local florist while attending Bournemouth and Poole College to gain her City and Guilds NVQ Level 2.

She was awarded Apprentice of the Year in 2007.

Danielle said the business had been built up over the years and – in a typical year – looked after about 100 weddings while its customer base was around 1,500 people.

“2020 has been a tough year but we’ve found that people are really keen to support local businesses like us.

“We’ve really noticed a difference this Christmas with a trebling in business for our wreaths.

“I think people want to end the year on a positive note with lots more sparkle and home decorations.

“Our Mini Christmas Market couldn’t come at a better time.”

• hillviewflowers.co.uk