Basil and Pip florist to opens in Norwich's Royal Arcade

Raised in Edinburgh and originally based in London, Gemma Murray and her seven-year-old son Robbie upped sticks after falling for the charms of Nelson's County.

"As soon as I got here I thought: this is magical, it's just so beautiful," the 34-year-old said, speaking of the visit arranging flowers for a friend's wedding.

Gemma Murray, owner of Basil and Pip, in the workshop area of her new studio in Norwich's Royal Arcade (Image: Denise Bradley)

And from there, she was hooked.

"Seeing how happy Robbie is up here - and in such a beautiful environment - is amazing," she added of her son, who has autism.

Gemma became a florist five years ago working out of her small kitchen and grew her business over lockdown, creating bouquets and gift baskets for friends and family.

Cedar and sandalwood and ylang-ylang-scented products from Gemma Murray's Basil and Pip range (Image: Denise Bradley)

Her business, Basil and Pip, is the latest to join the line-up of independents filling up Norwich's historic Royal Arcade.

The branding was inspired by her cat Pip, although the process of getting to the final name eludes her. 

She admitted that opening a bricks and mortar studio of the size of her new shop was way down the line in her five-year plan.

Gemma Murray among a display of Basil and Pip blooms (Image: Denise Bradley)

The front studio with a workshop space to the rear was entirely designed by Gemma, including a tiered stand where pre-made bouquets of flowers bloom on display.

She said: "When I was shown this spot, it hit me because this is exactly what I'd envisioned."

Now living in her "perfect home" in Aylsham, Gemma has an army of supporters around her including Robbie, Pip and rescue dog Goose - as well as her mum Carmel Stoney, who moved down from Edinburgh to help.

Alice Hall and Gemma Murray at Basil and Pip ahead of its grand opening (Image: Denise Bradley)

She also has Alice Hall by her side at the shop - and is hiring for more part-time positions.

She said of opening in the historic Royal Arcade: "It's great to have the help and support of the community.

"It's exciting to see the arcade's regeneration and independent businesses headed by strong women."

A neon sign of Basil and Pip's logo (Image: Denise Bradley)

Bouquets at Basil and Pip range from £25 to £45, with posies starting at a lower price point and more in the pipeline ahead of Valentine's Day and Mothering Sunday.