Introducing the very creative Katie Walker-Smith who, along with her talented flower crew, is bringing bespoke floristry Bungalow & Co. to life at our Sovereign Place Town Centre.
Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself Katie, have you always lived in Port Macquarie with your family?
My background has always been immersed in all creative fields, from a very young age I was making, painting, designing and dreaming up creative ideas. I was born on the mid north coast and spent my younger years living in Shelly Beach and it started my love of all things coastal. We moved to the Gold Coast and I studied interior design, graphic design and photography. After having my three children we decided to move back to where I always felt at home and to give our kids that great coastal town lifestyle.
Q: What inspired you to start Bungalow & Co. in Port Macquarie and Sovereign Place?
I live in the Sovereign Hills area and Sovereign Place is my ‘local’. I just love the vibe of the area and the shops. It’s such a relaxing place, and yet it has that boutique feel you don’t get from other places in Port Macquarie.
For a long time I’ve been passionate about floristry and interior design, and Bungalow & Co. represents that passion for me in bricks and mortar. I love the idea of customers being able to come to Sovereign Place to buy their deli goods, enjoy an amazing coffee at The Hill and then wander into Bungalow for a new plant or bunch of flowers to brighten their home!
Q: How would you describe Bungalow & Co.? What can we expect once you open your doors?
Bungalow & Co. is a bespoke floristry which specialises in fresh seasonal blooms, dried and live natives, and harder to find indoor plants. We also stock a range of interior goods, many of which are collaborations with local businesses and can’t be found elsewhere.
COVID really highlighted to me the importance of supporting local, and my aim is to continue to collaborate with local growers, suppliers and small businesses.
We have worked hard to put together a collective group of passionate individuals who all make up Bungalow & Co… Our focus is on creating an amazing experience with a culture of great customer service, while also supporting our local community.
I believe that beautiful flowers, plants and homewares should be affordable and accessible to everyone!
Q: Where did the inspiration come from?
2020 was a very difficult year for our community and our country at large. It gave me the opportunity to really evaluate what I wanted to do with my creative passions. Bungalow was born from those passions, and I truly believe we can create an amazing experience for our customers. Indoor plants are a great way to brighten a home, create calm and peace, and encourage nurturing.
I think 2020 saw a lot of people spending time indoors and even being isolated. I know mental health for the community suffered. I’m hoping by supplying amazing and rare indoor plants, and a stunning flower market, with our talented flower crew, we can lift the spirits of our customers and bring some joy back into what’s been a very hard 12 months!
My dream is for Bungalow to be a regular hang out for those who love and share my passions.
Q: What’s the best way to place an order?
Pop in to Sovereign Place or order online at www.bungalowandco.com.au
You can also follow us on Instagram @bungalowandco
Bungalow & Co.
Open 7 days
Shop 15 Sovereign Place Town Centre
Chancellors Drive, Port Macquarie