In the first of a special Christmas series, we focus on some of the local independent businesses who make their own products in Altrincham.
Alex Cox has been a market trader since he was five years old and used to help his dad out on Saturdays at Altrincham Market.
With his dad now retired and the Bloomin Flowers & Plants stall now relocated to Shaw's Road, Alex is looking forward to the family business's 38th Christmas.
"It's the busiest six weeks of the year for us," said Alex.
Once Bloomin's goods arrive from the Netherlands, they're transformed into bouquets, wreaths and other products by Alex and his team, either at his workshop in Romiley or on the market stall itself.
Given the time of year, he's expecting to once again sell a lot of holly wreaths, spruce, mistletoe, amaryllis, eucalyptus, willow and Ilex berries: "All the traditional things that last well over Christmas and smell nice," he added.
The skill required to turn individual flowers and plants into beautiful, seasonally themed bouquets is no accident, but the result of decades of experience.
"We've been here nearly 40 years, and I learnt from my dad and grandma before me. My customers tell me if we're doing well - if we're doing well they buy it, if it's not they won't!"
Alex is now one of the most recognisable faces - and voices - in the town centre, a cheery presence whatever the weather.
"We've been on Shaw's Road for 10 years now - we love it because everyone walks past. We get to say hello to thousands of people a year - it's amazing what you find out and learn about people's experiences."
He's hoping for another "bumper" Christmas. "Every year it's grown and we'll be having a go at doing it again," he said. "The van will hopefully go home empty on Christmas Eve and all being well we'll have a week or two off!"
Bloomin Flowers & Plants, Shaw’s Road, Altrincham
Photography: Laura Marie Linck
