THE variety of local traders on our high streets is immense.

As the Leader celebrates July's Independent Retailer Month, we put just some of the businesses in the spotlight.

Name: Nikki Pearce

Business: Vivaldi Flowers

Location: 104 Church Road, Buckley

Telephone / website: 07545 597259 / www.vivaldiflowers.co.uk

Opening hours: I often talk to people after 'normal' hours online, through Facebook and emails, as this seems to fit in with people's lives. I also have many of my appointments for wedding and funerals in the evening, as it is when the family can get together. I normally go to the customer's house as they feel more comfortable there.

When did you open and why?

After training at the Welsh College of Horticulture from 1985, I had my first business in 1987 and then opened Nikki's Florist in Buckley in 1992.

We had two shops and 14 staff at one point, so we were very busy. After selling in 2006 I realised how much I missed it and decided to work from home, keeping it simple with just me.

I wasn't expecting to be too busy but last year we looked after 52 couples getting married and this year we are on target to do the same. 2020 already has seen dates fully booked, so very exciting times ahead.

And of course nobody else could have done my wedding flowers in 2006!

Why did you open in this location?

I live here. Buckley has been my home for over 40 years. I love the people.

The Leader:

Tell us about your business/what do you sell?

I am a qualified florist. I sell anything to do with flowers - from gift bouquets to weddings and funeral tributes.

What's your most memorable/proudest moment in business?

I have completed work for the Duke of Westminster, and helped decorate the Eisteddfod in Llangollen, but to be honest I am more proud to look after my customers on a day to day basis.

Maybe having a bride hugging me as their bouquet they have been planning since a little girl exceeded all expectation, or a bereaved family taking the time to phone me to thank me for the tribute I had prepared for their loved one.

The fact people take the time to get in touch after the event in their life to thanks me - I am very proud of that.

Have you had any strange requests/quirky suggestions or stories from customers?

I am often asked to make bespoke funeral tribute. I have made snooker tables, fish, traveller wagons, football shields and horse and jockeys.

When people ask if it will be a problem do create a certain tribute, my answer is always 'nothing is a problem'.