In the heart of Bath’s vibrant Oldfield Park, a charming new venture called Flower and Scoop has blossomed into something truly special. Childhood companions Alison Rowley and Mandy Brown—both embracing life “on the right side of fifty”—have combined their passions to launch a one-of-a-kind destination offering coffee, gelato, and handcrafted bouquets all under one roof.
Alison crafts the shop’s authentic Italian gelato with an infectious enthusiasm, while Mandy brings her two decades of floral expertise to every arrangement. “She’s the flower, and I’m the scoop!” Alison said with a laugh, perfectly capturing their complementary roles.
Their partnership, though now seamless, unfolded gradually. Initially a solo project for Alison, she jokingly asked Mandy if she could help just for a day or two. That casual offer quickly blossomed into a full-fledged collaboration, creating a lively and welcoming space where customers can grab a cappuccino, enjoy a scoop of salted caramel gelato, and pick up a fresh bouquet all in one visit.
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Mandy’s floral artistry extends beyond the everyday, specializing in arrangements for occasions that range from joyous celebrations to somber farewells. She shared a touching story of a client who invited her to choose flowers from their grandmother’s garden for a truly personal funeral tribute, highlighting the deep emotional connection behind her craft.
But Flower and Scoop isn’t just about flowers and treats—it’s about community. Alison and Mandy are committed to nurturing local talent by mentoring young apprentices like Elle, an 18-year-old florist showing great promise, and offering work experience to teenagers in the area.
Looking ahead to autumn, they plan to host family-friendly workshops such as pumpkin carving and wreath making, further cementing their role as a neighborhood hub. Since opening, they have been touched by the warm reception from the community, with Alison noting, “If I had a pound for every time someone told me what a beautiful shop we have…”
Flower and Scoop welcomes visitors Wednesday through Monday—it’s a delightful blend of nature, sweetness, and friendship you won’t want to miss.