Hello, I'm Bec, Founder of Not Just a Pretty Flower
Thanks for being here and taking the time to read my story.
I grew up in Lake Macquarie on Awabakal land and live and create in Maroubra on beautiful Gadigal & Bidjigal land.
My curiosity in gardens, flowers, vegetables and animals was seeded at a young age spending time adventuring around the lake and at my grandparent's property in Mount Vincent.
Some of my earliest memories are of picking Double Delight roses and wrapping them in foil to take home, picnicking under the willow tree, finding frogs in the arum lilies and masses of lavender and hydrangea skirting around the verandah, welcoming you to the house.
In 2023, after facing mental health challenges, I made values-based choices that reshaped my life and career. I began a Certificate III in Floristry while still working in my corporate role, and the experience of learning among flowers immediately felt like where I was meant to be.
Floristry was the catalyst to reigniting a sense of wonder, calm, inspiration and deep gratitude for nature, akin to what I experienced growing up. Connecting with, and expressing myself, through nature has been deeply transformative and healing.
In late 2023, I left my corporate role to join The Social Enterprise Council of NSW and ACT (SECNA) to build a thriving social enterprise ecosystem in NSW and the ACT as Member Lead. In 2025, I farewelled the amazing team and all our members to focus full time on growing NJAPF as a social enterprise!
NJAPF is the union of my desire to run my own business to do good in the world and life experience underpinned by nature connections. I believe in these connections to heal and help nurture positive transformation in our lives, community and in nature.
I’m committed to sustainable floristry and completed the CPD Foundation in Sustainable Floristry in December 2023 and am a Member of the Sustainable Floristry Network. You can read more about my Approach here.
I love foraging and procuring from local and Australian businesses, artisans and social enterprises, second-hand stores, vintage and antique dealers to create my work, run my business and for my home.
When I’m not creating, you'll find me out in nature walking, running, cycling or swimming on the lookout for nudibranchs. You might also see me sketching ideas at a local café and chasing after my niece, Astrid (AKA Little Green Frog, Madam or Madam Possum).
I'm very grateful to be on this journey and optimistic knowing that I share a common Purpose with many others.
Do you love connecting with nature? Say hello, I’d love to hear all about it!