The Hands Behind Wildflower Folk – Ruthie’s Story

Ruthie Lawson is the creative heart and hands behind the stunning floral designs of Wildflower Folk. She and her husband James and daughters Indie (3) and Velvet (1) live in a gorgeous mountain cabin overlooking the south coast of NSW Australia.

I am the daughter of a carpenter and for as long as I can remember I have loved making things with my hands. Growing up in a small country town in Australia I was particularly inspired by my always resourceful and creative mum. I started making simple craft items on a basic Singer sewing machine handed down through my family. I was only five years old when I first started selling my creations. I used the money to buy WWJD (What Would Jesus Do) bracelets to give out to my friends at school.

I started working at our local florist when I was 14 years old and loved being surrounded by women who were artists. I learned so much from them. Importantly, I was encouraged to trust my instincts, to have confidence in my ability and to take risks.

I feel like I put a piece of myself into everything I make. Whether it’s an elaborate floral design or a simple item of clothing for my girls, whatever I create is an expression of who I am.

There are always moments of hesitation and vulnerability but they are overcome by the sheer joy and delight of seeing what was an idea or thought in my head take shape into something tangible.

It’s exhilarating. Living in the mountains I am surrounded by nature; trees, moss, ferns, wildflowers, grasses and bush so there is no shortage of inspiration and material to work with.

One of my great joys is making things for my family but even better is watching my girls discover their own creativity. For Indies first birthday, all of her gifts were handmade. At the time we couldn’t really afford to buy her anything but it’s also become a nice tradition that we have decided to keep. We recently celebrated Velvet’s first birthday and when I asked Indie what she would like to buy Velvet for her birthday she replied ‘I want to make her something.’ This made my heart so happy.

It’s such a beautiful gift to see that we are teaching our children to use the skills that God has given us, to pass on and bless someone else. It doesn’t matter if there are flaws or an imperfection that just makes each piece unique like us!

To connect with Ruthie @wildflowerfolk

Photos: www.elizajadephotography.com and @boys_run_free