Blooms, Business & Motherhood: Ash from Piccolo and Poppi

The wedding industry is filled with talented, hardworking women who bring beauty, creativity and heart to every celebration. This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on some of the incredible women behind the scenes—Meet Ash from Piccolo and Poppi, a floral styling boutique that transforms wedding spaces into breathtaking works of art.

With 13 years of floral expertise, a flair for design and a passion for creating unforgettable moments, Ash has built a thriving business on the South Coast of NSW. But her role isn’t just about arranging flowers—she’s also a mother, business owner and creative powerhouse who knows what it takes to balance it all.

We chatted with Ash to chat about her journey as a floral stylist, what it’s like being a young mum in business, and why supporting women in the wedding industry is important.

Celebrating Women in the Wedding Industry

As a woman in the wedding industry, what has your journey been like?
My journey as a wedding florist and stylist has been a beautiful whirlwind. Over the past 13 years, I’ve poured my heart into creating unforgettable floral designs while balancing the demands of running a business and raising my three kids. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has shaped me into the businesswoman I am today. Seeing the joy on a couple’s face when they step into their dream wedding space makes all the long nights, early mornings, and creative hurdles worth it.

Have you had any female mentors or role models who have inspired you along the way?
Absolutely. The wedding industry is filled with incredible women who have paved the way for creativity and resilience. I’ve been inspired by female entrepreneurs who juggle family and business with grace, as well as fellow florists and stylists who push the boundaries of design. Other females in the industry who inspire me are Gemaya from Be Designed, Monica from Hoorah Events, Caroline from Flowers on the Mill, Eliza from Ivy Lane and Belinda from White Cherry Invitations, just to name a few.

What do you think women bring to the wedding industry that makes it so special?
Women bring heart, intuition, and a deep understanding of the emotions behind a wedding day. We create spaces that not only look stunning but also feel personal and meaningful. Our ability to connect with couples, understand their vision, and bring it to life with passion and creativity is what makes this industry so special.

How have you seen the role of women in weddings (both as vendors and as brides) evolve over the years?
Women have always been a driving force in the wedding industry, but I’ve seen a shift toward more empowerment and leadership. More women are stepping into entrepreneurial roles, setting trends, and taking control of their wedding vision in a way that reflects their personalities, rather than just following traditions.

What challenges have you faced as a woman running your own business, and how have you overcome them?
Balancing business and family has been my biggest challenge. There have been seasons where I’ve felt stretched thin, trying to be present for my kids while also growing Piccolo and Poppi. I’ve learned to set boundaries, delegate when needed, and accept that I can’t do it all perfectly. Finding a support system, both personally and professionally has been key.

What advice would you give to young women looking to enter the wedding industry?
Trust your creativity, be willing to put in the work, and surround yourself with supportive people. This industry requires passion and perseverance, but if you stay true to your vision and values, you will find your place and thrive.

Balancing Business & Motherhood

You’re not only an incredible floral stylist but also a young mother—how do you juggle both roles?
It’s a constant dance! Some days, I feel like I’ve got it all together, and other days, it’s pure chaos. I’ve learned to be flexible, embrace the imperfections, and remind myself why I’m doing this for my family and for the love of my craft.

What have been some of the biggest challenges of running a business while raising little ones?
Time and energy are my biggest challenges. Weddings require long hours, and being a mother is a 24/7 job. Learning to prioritise, be SUPER organised, ask for help, and let go of guilt has been a journey. Oh, and letting the house go to ruin when I’m not around.

Has becoming a mother changed your approach to your business in any way?
Yes, in so many ways. Motherhood has taught me patience, perspective, and the importance of balance. It’s also given me a deeper appreciation for love and family, which reflects in the way I approach wedding styling.

Do you have any advice for other mothers who dream of running their own creative business?
Go for it, but be kind to yourself. You don’t have to do everything at once. Take small steps, build a strong support network, and create a business that fits your lifestyle rather than the other way around.

Floral Styling & Creativity

What drew you to floral styling, and how did Piccolo and Poppi come to life?
I’ve always been drawn to beauty and storytelling through events. I have always enjoyed creating beautiful settings for people I love, and from that, Piccolo & Poppi was formed. Piccolo and Poppi was born out of a love for creating meaningful, magical moments through flowers and styling. I was a journalist by degree before starting this business, and my last role was as beauty and lifestyle editor for Cosmopolitan Bride magazine, so I was living and breathing weddings before I began the business.

How do you balance your own creative vision with a couple’s ideas to create something truly unique?
It’s all about collaboration. I listen to their story, understand their vision, and then bring my expertise to enhance and elevate their ideas.

Can you share a moment when you created something you were especially proud of?
There have been so many, but one that stands out was a gorgeous wedding at Centennial Park in Sydney, a  wedding where the couple wanted something effortlessly elegant yet deeply personal. I also LOVE creating for my cousins, where they have given me full creative control.

What’s your favourite flower to work with, and why?
I love hydrangea...bold, yet delicate, whimsical, and full of life and love. They add such a romantic, organic touch to any arrangement.

Women Supporting Women

What role do community and collaboration play in your work?
They’re everything! The wedding industry thrives on relationships, and working with other talented women brings fresh inspiration and support, such as the lovely girls behind Love A Fair!

Are there any other female vendors in the wedding industry that you love working with?
Absolutely! I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredibly talented women, such as Cath from Coastal Ceremonies, Tia from Absolute Hair by Tia, Makeup by Megan and Rachael Tagg, just to name a few.

International Women’s Day & Personal Reflection

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It’s a day to celebrate strength, resilience, and the incredible achievements of women in all industries. It’s also a reminder of the work still to be done to support and uplift women everywhere.

How do you personally celebrate and uplift other women in your daily life and business?
By supporting and championing other women in business, whether it’s through collaborations, sharing their work, or simply offering encouragement. We rise by lifting others.

If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? Believe in yourself. You are capable of more than you know, and the challenges you face will only make you stronger.