My bonsai journey began in the late 80s after watching The Karate Kid. I remember going to the local library, borrowing every bonsai book I could find, and—together with a friend—discovering an ash sapling growing out of the side of a building. I tried to turn it into a bonsai, but it ultimately ended up planted in my parents’ garden… where it grew into a huge tree.

Even then, I always knew I’d return to bonsai someday. Life kept me busy, but the interest never left. Years later, on a family holiday, we visited Willowbog Bonsai — the first bonsai nursery I had ever stepped into — and I was completely blown away. After hours wandering the nursery, I narrowed my choices down to three trees… and couldn’t decide. So I bought all three.

From that moment, bonsai became a yearly pilgrimage. I returned to Willowbog again and again, eventually joining the monthly chats whenever I could. Those visits were always a joy — spending time among the trees, the characters, and the owners. Over the years I travelled to other nurseries across the UK, including Windybank Bonsai, Lee Verhorevoort Bonsai, Wattston Bonsai, Greenwoods Bonsai, and even made trips to Spain to visit Bonsái Pavía.

After many years as a buyer, I turned my attention to creating my own bonsai. I found a deeper joy in growing trees myself — raising them from seed, guiding their shape, and watching their character emerge. Each tree became a small story written with patience and care, offering a fulfilment far richer than anything I could ever purchase.

Today, my bonsai craft is a true passion, and I’m proud to share that artistry with others. Every tree I offer reflects the joy, dedication, and love I pour into this living art.