WORKSPACE TOUR: Ed West of Poho Flowers
Meet Ed West of Poho Flowers, a florist in Sydney's Potts Point bringing creativity and innovation with their contemporary arrangements... and an exceptionally aesthetically pleasing social media feed.
We visited Ed in his workspace to discuss his inspirations, his greatest lesson learnt from the growth of Poho Flowers and his simple workspace tip to ensure you start the day organised.
What is the story behind Poho Flowers?
Poho is now in its 3rd generation of ownership. A Potts Point staple that has evolved into one of Sydney’s leading florists for retail, gifting, events and corporate work. Focusing on local, sustainable products with a strong community and social drive. We are a team of 17, bringing together a diverse knowledge of floristry and years of combined experience
How did your career begin as a florist & what has been your biggest highlight to date?
My career as a florist began somewhat by mistake, but fast grew to be the creative outlet I didn't know I was craving. Originally a customer of Poho, I trained on the job. I've learnt a lot in 6 years and continue to be inspired by flowers and nature everyday to create memorable moments for clients across Sydney and abroad. My biggest highlight has been seeing my team grow and develop over the last few years, this is the most rewarding part of my job. I’m also incredibly proud of our alliance with the Australia Wildlife Conservancy and the work they do.
What inspires you?
What inspires you?
I’m most inspired by the patterns, shapes and colours nature creates. A visit to the Sydney Flower Markets is enough to get the creative juices flowing. The passion, drive and resilience of flower growers inspires me each and every day to push the boundaries and bring new life to their hard work.
First thing you do when you get to the office?
Coffee in hand I map out my day, I’ve tried to make this a digital thing but am always drawn back to pen and paper, there’s something tactile and visual about it that makes it seem real and manageable.
Top 3 ways you organise your life?
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I’ve quickly learned to use my diary to block out time for clients and meetings alike but also make time for myself creatively and even more importantly in nature. A nurtured mind and soul makes for an organised life
- A daily to do list sets the tone for the day and motivates me to complete tasks in a timely manner
- It’s taken me a long time to work this one out but my ultimate key to an organised life is a healthy work/life balance and creating clear lines between the two. I make sure to allocate time for myself, friends, family and most importantly technology free time. This makes my time overall more organised, productive and enjoyable
What are your must have desk essentials?
What are your must have desk essentials? 
A beautiful pen and lined writing paper, filtered drinking water, my selenite for EMF absorption and a good stash of healthy snacks to keep me going. I love sentimental objects and can’t function in a space without art.
How do you keep your workspace organised?
I started by creating a space I was proud of and actually wanted to walk into everyday. Each day I leave my desk the way I want to find it the next morning.
What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learnt from your business growth?
The success and growth of a business is usually attributed to profitability. Ultimately this is key to longevity and success but a focus on integrity, people and the quality of the product you deliver will get you there a lot faster and in a more sustainable way.
Who is somebody that inspires you?
I’m inspired by the work of my dear friend Dr Lisa Cooper and the way she approaches her work, it’s inspiring and always leaves me in awe.
Who is in your support network?
My greatest supporters and advocates are my boyfriend Ryan and my family. They challenge me to be the best version of myself, nurture my drive and ambition and leave me wanting to be a better, more compassionate and fearless leader everyday.
What are your goals for the next 12 months / what are you most looking forward to?
Nature is my happy place, I’m driven to find ways to spend more time in nature. My partner Ryan and I would love to own a farm of our own one day. With travel restricted to our own big beautiful backyard I'm looking forward to short local getaways, and even looking at my first camping trip in almost 10 years. This year I will also launch my new brand, Edan. You could say it’s a busy year ahead