It is with great sadness that we announce that Val Spicer, a major influence on so many in the industry, passed away suddenly on 18 December 2021 aged 89.
A regular writer for The Florist Magazine in the 90’s … under the pseudonym Stephan Otis she had a monthly column called Moss Balls and Foam Spheres where she both shared ideas and taught valuable lessons … and regular participant at Spring Florist Event, Val was a proactive member of the industry and not only gave it so much but was an inspiration to so many.
From humble beginnings she started her career at the age of 14, working as a junior in a flower shop from the age of 14, before moving on to own three successful shops in the Southwest. From there she progressed to teaching, was an active member of the Society of Floristry and was renowned amongst students for being firm but fair and both incredibly supportive and encouraging.
Then, at an age when most would be thinking about retirement, she started Val Spicer Designs, which began with a bouquet holder and moved on to Storky … one of the most popular and memorable sundries line, Prams and of course the amazing range of foam products Spicer Designs is now well known for.
Val ‘s legacy is continued by her sons Martin and Jay and she will be much missed by them, her daughter Deborah, grandchildren and great grandchildren to whom we extend a heartfelt sympathies.
