Pyrus Botanicals is a nature-led cut flower business founded by Fiona Inglis in 2011 and based within the historic gardens of Saltoun Estate. For over a decade, the business has supplied seasonal flowers for events and shows, gradually building a reputation rooted in sustainability, craftsmanship and a strong sense of place.
In recent years, growing public interest in the garden itself, sparked by popular pick-your-own days in the wildflower meadow, inspired Fiona to explore new ways of opening up the space and sharing the wider story behind the business.
That vision became a reality in 2024, following the award of a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) Business Growth and Innovation Grant, funded by UK Government via East Lothian Council.
“The process was really well supported. Any questions I had were answered clearly and quickly, and that made what could have been daunting feel very manageable.”
With guidance and encouragement from Business Gateway East Lothian’s Business Growth Adviser Andy Mackenzie, Fiona successfully navigated developing her project idea. The funding enabled the construction of a bespoke, open-sided pavilion within the garden, designed to host workshops, gatherings and creative events while staying fully connected to its natural surroundings.
Designed and built by local East Linton-based company Bothanna Cabins, the pavilion reflects the values of Pyrus Botanicals. Using Scottish timber, traditional joinery methods and untreated materials that will weather naturally over time, the structure is deeply sympathetic to the garden’s heritage and evolving character. It also marked Fiona’s first ever building project, requiring planning permission and careful coordination – challenges supported by East Lothian Council throughout the process.
The new pavilion has already enabled significant business growth. For the first time, Pyrus Botanicals can offer a structured programme of public workshops, welcoming visitors into the garden to explore flowers through creativity, wellbeing and shared learning. This year’s 'Anthomania' workshop programme brings together a wide range of collaborators and activities, including floristry-inspired sessions, printmaking, embroidery, yoga and nature-focused experiences.
Additional support from East Lothian Council’s Economic Development team such as their Travel Trade Expert Help programme is helping Fiona develop new markets, including private and corporate bookings and experiential tourism, allowing the business to generate new income from existing assets while remaining true to its environmental values.
Ongoing one-to-one support from Business Gateway East Lothian has continued to play a vital role. Andy Mackenzie remains Fiona’s first point of contact, providing advice across a broad range of business challenges – from cashflow forecasting and recruitment support to acting as a trusted sounding board when major decisions arise. This consistent access to experienced, local support has been particularly valuable during periods of growth, helping Fiona to step back, gain perspective and plan confidently for the future.
“Running a business can feel quite isolating at times. Having access to one‑to‑one support where you can talk decisions through, get perspective and move forward with confidence has been invaluable.”
As the business expands, so too does the team. Pyrus Botanicals is currently recruiting for two new roles, alongside welcoming volunteers, and has ambitions to work more closely with schools and young people through summer schools and educational activity.
For Fiona, East Lothian is fundamental to the success of the business. With its rich soils, strong transport links, proximity to Edinburgh and diverse landscapes – from coast to countryside – the area offers both commercial advantage and an exceptional quality of life.
“There’s a strong sense of community among businesses here. People are supportive, collaborative, and understand the realities of running a small business – that camaraderie makes a real difference.”
Looking ahead, Fiona’s plans are firmly focused on sustainable growth: expanding collaborative workshops, cultivating more of the garden, enhancing biodiversity and delivering community projects alongside schools and local groups. With wildlife already thriving on site, future ambitions include pond creation, tree planting and further development of the wildflower meadow.
To find out more about Pyrus Botanicals and explore the 'Anthomania' workshop programme.
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