Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Botanical Brouhaha A Flower Blog Featuring the Best | Floral Design | Florists | Wedding Flowers ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/blog/) - This is blog page placeholder. Anything you enter here will not appear in the front end, except for search results pages. - [The Fear Florists Don't Talk About](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-fear-florists-dont-talk-about/) - Why visibility feels terrifying for florists even when the work is good and you're ready. A member's honest question sparked this one. - [Alex Vaughan Bet Everything on FLWR Shop](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/alex-vaughan-bet-everything-on-flwr-shop/) - Alex Vaughan of FLWR Shop shares the unlikely story behind Nashville's most beloved flower shop — from building with grit to tornado destruction and rebuilding. - [Worth the Wait: Sophie Felts Floral Co Joins Circle Weddings](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/worth-the-wait-sophie-felts-floral-co-joins-circle-weddings/) - DC-based wedding florists Sophie Felts & Erica Gamble join us to talk about building a sustainable, profitable floral business and leading CIRCLE Weddings 2026. - [Keep Your Blooms Fresh: Best Cold Storage Options](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/keep-your-blooms-fresh-best-cold-storage-options/) - Specialized cold storage protects your flower investment as a florist. Learn some of the best cold storage options for long and short term cooler rentals. - [Mountain Flower Farm: The Power of Knowing Your Grower](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mountain-flower-farm-the-power-of-knowing-your-grower/) - Vermont organic grower Walt Krukowski of Mountain Flower Farm on the long game of flower farming — and why the florist-farmer relationship is crucial. - [BB Podcast Episode 14: Marco Groot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-14-marco-groot/) - "That's the floral industry. The world is so small and it's all so connected. I love it." -Marco Groot Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Marco Groot, CEO of Hilverda De Boer USA to discuss: his childhood growing up in Holland and the role flower farming played - [The Art of Adaptation: Emily Patrick's Carolina Flowers Evolution](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-art-of-adaptation-emily-patricks-carolina-flowers-evolution/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Spotify Jack Sorokin Photography From Journalist to Flower Farmer at Carolina Flowers In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 123), we're visiting with Emily Patrick, owner of Carolina Flowers, a florist and flower farm located near Asheville, NC. Emily’s journey from journalism to flower farming is nothing short of inspiring, and - [How Anna Stouffer Added a Retail Component to Her Floral Business](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-anna-stouffer-added-a-retail-component-to-her-floral-business/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Spotify Ryan & Alyssa Photography Unexpected Beginnings to Successful Retail Floral Business In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 124), we're visiting with Anna Stouffer, owner of Urban Petals, a floral design studio and lifestyle boutique in Historic Greer, South Carolina — a short drive from downtown Greenville, SC. Anna started - [Growing Flowers and Fighting for Change with Grateful Gardeners](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/growing-flowers-and-fighting-for-change-with-grateful-gardeners/) - Learn how Sarah Daken and Tom Precht, founders of Grateful Gardeners, are revolutionizing the US floral industry through the power of aquaponics. - [Building a Floral Brand That Sticks](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/building-a-floral-brand-that-sticks/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Spotify How we show up impacts our brand strategy In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 127), we're exploring the importance of creating a brand that sticks - meaning one that continues to draw in ideal customers year after year. Drawing on Amy's recent experiences trying to find new service providers - [From Flowers to Clay: The Creative Journey of Sullivan Owen](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/from-flowers-to-clay-the-creative-journey-of-sullivan-owen/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Spotify Sullivan Owen / Twist No. 1 Vase Introduction to Sullivan Owen Sullivan Owen's journey into the floral industry is as unique as her designs. With a background in retail merchandising, Sullivan transitioned into floristry in 2009 while planning her own wedding. Her distinct style and dedication quickly earned her - [How Sarah Donjuan's Hobby Became JJ's Flower Shop](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-sarah-donjuans-hobby-became-jjs-flower-shop/) - Sarah Donjuan shares how she built JJ's Flower Shop from a hobby into a thriving Atlanta storefront with no previous floral experience. - [BB Podcast Ep. 107: Kelsie Hayes](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-107-kelsie-hayes/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Kelsie Hayes, owner of Popupflorist in New York City. Kelsie brought her mastery of performance-under-pressure and quick-turn-around-times with her when she left the world of fashion design and opened Popupflorist. From her start as a tiny coffee shop popup to securing two - [How Colleen Raney is Building a Sweet Pea Seed Brand](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-colleen-raney-is-building-a-sweet-pea-seed-brand/) - Colleen Raney shares her journey from actor and musician to flower farmer and seed company founder—and how the sweet pea became the heart of her business. - [Linda D'Arco: Flower Farming While Taking a Stand](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/linda-darco-flower-farming-while-taking-a-stand/) - A candid conversation with flower farmer Linda D'Arco on flower farming, supply chains, and taking a stand that aligns with her values. - [BB Podcast Episode 79: Linda D'Arco](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-79-linda-darco/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Linda D'Arco of Little Farmhouse Flowers in Jay, New York to chat about: transitioning to the floral profession from "teacher by day, farmer by night" logistics of starting a flower farm extending the growing season preparing a wedding proposal as a farmer florist her new - [Evelyn Krebs: Choosing Her Own Way as a Florist](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/evelyn-krebs-choosing-her-own-way-as-a-florist/) - Swiss florist Evelyn Krebs shares what 25 years of shop ownership taught her about growth, courage, and building a business that actually supports your life. - [BB Podcast Ep. 102: Brooke Snodgrass](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-102-brooke-snodgrass/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify image courtesy of Anne Blodgett Photography Today we’re visiting with Brooke Snodgrass, owner of Seventh Stem in Portland, Oregon. Brooke entered the flower world while working for a flower farmer as a side hustle to her career in finance. An avid gardener, she grows varieties that make her happy - [Creating a Deconstructed Hydrangea Arch](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/creating-a-deconstructed-hydrangea-arch/) - Does this sound familiar? You're wanting to move away from using traditional floral foam in the arch design you create for your clients, but you can't shake this one worry: How will you be able to ensure the blooms will stay hydrated during the event? You know you can't take chances on the blooms wilting. - [Floral Resources for Florists](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/floral-resources-ep-1/) - Explore floral resources to support your flower business—from inspiring books and fresh ideas to valuable educational opportunities. - [BB Podcast Episode 82: Anna Potter](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-82-anna-potter/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Anna Potter, owner of Swallows & Damsons in Sheffield, UK. Join us as we talk about: why she had an instant connection with floristry her experience buying an existing flower shop and making it her own the juxtaposition she injects into her floral designs how - [Your Flower Dream Called. It’s Waiting.](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/your-flower-dream-called-its-waiting/) - Think it’s too late to start your flower business? These inspiring career-changers built thriving floral businesses. It’s never too late to follow your dream. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 3](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-3/) - The Question: How can I get a job with a good florist in order to learn the fundamentals of the business? I have no formal training and can't afford it at this time. What I do have is a vast knowledge of flowers along with some self taught basics and creative talent. (submitted by Paula - [BB Podcast Episode 57: Rachelle Willows](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-57-rachelle-willows/) - "I went from working with people on the worst or last day of their lives to working with them on the best day of their lives." -Rachelle Willows | Flowers by Willows Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Rachelle Willows & Romeo | Wild Love Photos Today on the BB Podcast, - [The Importance of Self-Care in Creative Work](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-importance-of-self-care-in-creative-work/) - Nectar & Bloom Founder Jen Lagedrost Cavender supports floral designers and creative business owners in pursuing self-care in order create a sustainable career. - [The Power of Color in Floral Design](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-power-of-color-in-floral-design/) - Discover why color is the heart of floral design. Learn how color theory helps florists create harmony, emotion, and meaning in every arrangement. - [Eve Floral Co: The Courage to Let Go](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/eve-floral-co-the-courage-to-let-go/) - Florist Evelyn Streeter shares her journey of growth, grief, and the brave decision to let go of her beloved floral business as she prepares to sell it. - [Diane Szukovathy: Standards for Flower Growers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/diane-szukovathy-standards-for-flower-growers/) - Flower farmer Diane Szukovathy shares the story behind the Floral Standards Book and how it’s setting a new benchmark for quality among flower growers. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 104](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-104/) - Question: Do you offer residential holiday decorating to your clients? If so, have you found it to be a profitable service to offer? Would love to know which holidays you cover and which services your clients ask for. I'm thinking about adding this to my plate, but want to make sure it's worth it before - [The Farmer & I: A Tale of Love, Flowers, and Entrepreneurship](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-farmer-i-a-tale-of-love-flowers-and-entrepreneurship/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Franny Pullin Photography The Beginning: College and Career Path We're excited for you to meet Carrington Winkelmann in Episode 113. She's a passionate florist who began dreaming about owning a flower business while she was a college student. Initially, she didn't have a clear direction for her career path - [Behind the Blooms: Flower Farming at Winkelmann Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/behind-the-blooms-flower-farming-at-winkelmann-flowers/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Spotify Flower Farmer Insights In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 129), we're visiting with flower farmer Grant Winkelmann, owner of Winkelmann Flowers, in Lindale, Texas. Grant shares not only how he's built a farm producing sought-after blooms, but he also shares what it took to pull off his family's recent - [Resources for Florists](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/floral-resources-ep-1-pt-2/) - Explore floral resources to support your flower business—from inspiring books and fresh ideas to valuable educational opportunities. - [3 Suppliers for Florists to Check Out](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/3-suppliers-for-florists-to-check-out/) - Discover 3 wholesale companies recommended by the Botanical Brouhaha community—great for florists, flower trucks, and pop-up shops alike. - [BB Podcast Episode 8: Holly Chapple](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-8-holly-chapple/) - “I don’t let myself say that I’ve arrived…that I’m done learning.” Holly Chapple | Holly Heider Chapple Flowers Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Emily Gude Photography Today we’re sitting down with Holly Chapple, owner of Holly Chapple Flowers in Leesburg, Virginia to discuss: the man who taught her to design - [BB Podcast Episode 7: Denise Fasanello](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-7-denise-fasanello/) - “Flowers are like fashion. They’re constantly changing.” Denise F. Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Denise Fasanello, owner of Denise Fasanello Flowers in Brooklyn, NY to discuss: The challenges of creating flowers for events in NYC Her ‘winter life’ as a ceramicist Finding a work life/family - [BB Podcast Episode 6: Jennifer Ederer](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-6-jennifer-ederer/) - “I think you have to identify what it is that gets you up in the morning and what keeps that fire burning in your belly.” Jennifer Ederer | Modern Day Events & Floral Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Modern Day Events & Floral | Kismet Today for BB Podcast Episode - [BB Podcast Episode 5: Gretchen O’Neil](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-5-gretchen-oneil/) - “Nobody wakes up and says ‘I want to be a millionaire, so I’m going to be a farmer.’” Gretchen O’Neil | Petals, ink. Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Gretchen O’Neil (pictured above right) of Petals, ink. & Grassdale Flower Farm to discuss: how she finally - [Following Your Gut in the Flower Business](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/following-your-gut-in-the-flower-business/) - One thing is for sure. I'm not exactly the same person I was when I started Botanical Brouhaha. And we're not the same business we were at the beginning because things have changed as I trusted my gut along the way. Sometimes it's tempting to look back and wish I could experience some of my favorite - [Twisted Willow Flowers: A Family Floral Story](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/twisted-willow-flowers-a-family-floral-story/) - Twisted Willow Flowers shares how they grew from a small-town flower shop into a sought-after wedding florist specializing in lush floral design. - [Juliana Grew Up in the Shop—Now She Runs It](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/juliana-grew-up-in-the-shop-now-she-runs-it/) - Juliana McWilliams reveals how she reinvented Sweet Memories Flowers, the family-run flower shop she grew up in, while retaining the legacy her mother built. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 106](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-106/) - Question: I'm constantly seeing the "success" of other designers on social media...magazine features, thousands of followers, appearances at industry social events, etc. The problem is I'm fairly shy and don't necessarily want the same kind of success, but I still want my clients to see me as "successful". How have you defined success for your - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 107](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-107/) - Today’s Expert Panel Discussion marks the end of yet another year for the panel as we prepare to take some time off to enjoy our families during the holidays. I would like to thank all of the 2017 panel members for their generosity in sharing valuable information based on their experience and expertise. What a - [Inside Tulipina: Building a Global Floral Brand with Kiana & Nate Underwood](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/inside-tulipina-building-a-global-floral-brand-with-kiana-nate-underwood/) - Go behind the scenes with Tulipina’s Kiana & Nate Underwood as they share how they built a global floral brand rooted in art, ambition, and integrity. - [BB Podcast Episode 41: Nicole Rossi](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-41-nicole-rossi/) - "The more information people can share with each other, I don't see it hurting anyone's business." Nicole Rossi | Texture Florals Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Nicole Rossi, owner of Texture Florals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to discuss: her unconventional transition from architecture to floral design creating a - [Flowering With Purpose: Turning Floral Design Into Meaningful Impact](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flowering-with-purpose-turning-floral-design-into-meaningful-impact/) - Learn how Flowers by Janie, a Flowering With Purpose Grant recipient, uses florals to support YW Calgary in breaking cycles of abuse, homelessness, and poverty. - [Building a Heart-Led Floral Business with Janelle Gerestein](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/building-a-heart-led-floral-business-with-janelle-gerestein/) - Janelle Gerestein, owner of Flowers by Janie, shares how she built a thriving floral business, hosts sold-out workshops, and gives back to her community. - [How To: Use a Pin Frog](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-to-use-a-pin-frog/) - Alyssa Lytle of Flowering Minds shows you how using a pin frog enables you to use long and carefully placed stems to create drama and movement. - [Do You Have Insurance for Your Floral Business?](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/do-you-have-insurance-for-your-floral-business/) - We asked working florists to share the insurance companies they trust to insure their flower businesses. Here's what they said. - [Is This Flower Business Legit?](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/is-this-flower-business-legit/) - Ever ask yourself if your flower business is legit? You're the only one who can answer that question, but here's something to consider in the struggle. - [Farewell Flowers: Sustainable Options for Funeral Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/farewell-flowers-sustainable-options-for-funeral-flowers/) - Carole Patilla, co-founder of the Farewell Flowers Directory, shares ways florists can provide plastic-free funeral flowers made with the planet in mind. - [How Imelda Ramos Built a Flower Wholesale Business](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-imelda-ramos-built-a-flower-wholesale-business/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify A Woman-Owned Flower Wholesale Business In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 122), we're visiting with Imelda 'Mel' Ramos, owner of Cali Wholesale, a flower wholesale business in Carlsbad, California. Imelda's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and strategic thinking. Her journey began with a deep-rooted - [BB Podcast Episode 35: Semia Dunne](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-35-semia-dunne/) - "I can't do everything and why would I want to? I'm surrounded by inspiring talented people who work here." -Semia Dunne | Flowers by Semia Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Semia Dunne of Flowers by Semia and The Floral Reserve in Providence, Rhode Island to discuss: - [Dropping By The Brouhaha: Kiana Underwood](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/dropping-by-the-brouhaha-kiana-underwood/) - Kiana Underwood, founder of Tulipina, drops by to share insights on her floristry style and where she finds inspiration for her stunning floral designs. - [BB Podcast Episode 4: Kiana Underwood](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-4-kiana-underwood/) - Kiana Underwood, founder of Tulipina, shares a glimpse into the magic behind her blooms drawing inspiration from travel, art, and her childhood in Iran. - [How iBuyFlowers Helps You Buy Farm Direct](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-ibuyflowers-helps-you-buy-farm-direct/) - Wilfred de Wit, founder and CEO of iBuyFlowers, shares how they help florists and event planners shop online for wholesale flowers directly from 100+ farms. - [Rachael Lunghi's Floral Business Insights](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/rachael-lunghis-floral-business-insights/) - Rachael Lunghi, owner of Siren Floral Co, shares her insights on growing a wedding and event floral company that specializes in destination events. - [The Evolution of MUD Urban Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-evolution-of-mud-urban-flowers/) - Chloe Murray, CEOof MUD Urban Flowers started a flower business in 2017 with one design a day and no phone number for customers. Hear what happened next! - [Rooted in Heritage: How Jamaican Roots Guide Olivee Floral](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/rooted-in-heritage-how-jamaican-roots-guide-olivee-floral/) - Karla Smith-Brown, founder of Olivee Floral left a career in public relations to become a florist who weaves passion, sustainability, and heritage into her art. - [Lingerie Shower for Alyssa](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/lingerie-shower-for-alyssa/) - In January (I know this post is a little late), we had a lingerie shower at my house for Alyssa. My great friend Emily from Emily Brenner Photography stopped by to photograph the evening…thanks so much Em! Thought you all might enjoy seeing a few of the pictures…you’ll notice that we had to use the - [Remember…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/remember/) - …these? Here’s the sweet Mama bird that has taken great care with these eggs for the past couple of weeks… Today I came home, peeked in the nest and saw the first baby! Only 5 eggs to go… Then I went for a walk through the poppies… Don’t you just love nature? Hope you - [BB Podcast Episode 3: Chloe Milligan](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-3-chloe-milligan/) - “Trusting yourself and going with your own personality, your own vibe, is what people like. People like authentic. Don’t force it.” -Chloe Milligan | MUD Urban Flowers Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Chloe Milligan (pictured above right) of MUD Urban Flowers to discuss: The story - [Tips on Becoming a Florist](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tips-on-becoming-a-florist/) - A collection of insights and take aways on becoming a florist from Susan McLeary as shared on the Botanical Brouhaha podcast over the years. - [BB Podcast Episode 95: Susan McLeary](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-95-susan-mcleary/) - A conversation with Susan McLeary aka Passionflower Sue — author, educator, wearable florals innovator, and self-appointed corsage ambassador. - [The Antique Rose Emporium](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-antique-rose-emporium/) - I had the chance to make a quick trip over to The Antique Rose Emporium yesterday… …love the chapel… …no wonder there were hundreds of bees hanging around the blooms… …love the vivid magenta against the blue sky …assuming it’s a fruit tree… …anyone recognize the blooms? …love the manicured shape of these shrubs…wait - [On Wiring Succulents](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/for-emon-wiring-succulents/) - Learn how to use succulents in floral arrangements. Check out this this step-by-step tutorial by Kathleen at Little Bird Bloom. - [BB+ Episode 6: Joseph Massie on Training, Competing, & Winning](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-6-joseph-massie-on-winning/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Joseph Massie | Joseph Massie TOPIC: Training, Competing, & Winning Over the years, we've had the honor of featuring Joseph Massie's work on the Botanical Brouhaha blog many times. From his rose tunnel installation in honor of the 90th birthday of Her Majesty - [BB Podcast Episode 44: Zoe Woodward](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-44-zoe-woodward/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Zoe Woodward, owner of Swan Cottage Flowers in Stoke Hammond, UK to discuss: how she turned her passion for gardening into a business the importance and benefit of a solid educational foundation how she chooses content for Instagram stories growing flowers - [Introducing: The Botanical Brouhaha Podcast](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/test-botanical-brouhaha-podcast/) - Introducing the Botanical Brouhaha Podcast where we sit down to visit, learn, and laugh with some of the most fascinating people in the flower industry. - [BB+ Episode 20: Jesse Camargo](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-20-jesse-camargo/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Jesse Camargo | Flo.ReaL | IG: @jesse.flo.real TOPIC: Becoming a Floral Freelancer Chatting with Jesse about the amazing opportunities that have come his way as a floral freelancer was pure joy. We can't help but think those opportunities are a result of his hard work and CHARM! - [BB Podcast Episode 96: Sophie Felts](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-96-sophie-felts/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with floral designer Sophie Felts, owner of Sophie Felts Floral Design which services the Washington, D.C. area. Join us as we talk with Sophie about: Building a flower business from the ground up with a business degree and a passion for flowers Starting and running a - [BB Podcast Episode 37: Jennifer Haf](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-37-jennifer-haf/) - "I'm not afraid to take chances. I feel like I'm not afraid to fail. I'm not afraid if something goes wrong, I'll make a change and do it differently." -Jennifer Haf (BLOOM) Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting Jennifer Haf, owner of BLOOM in Charlevoix, Michigan to discuss: how her - [Lucy Hunter: The Evolution of a Creative Soul](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/lucy-hunter-the-evolution-of-a-creative-soul/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Author and designer Lucy Hunter's transition between garden and flower design is a testament to the fluidity of her creativity. Many of us know her as Lucy the Flower Hunter, admiring her stunning floral designs on social media. However, her roots in garden design are a significant part of - [Making a Foam Free Arch with Janelle Gerestein](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/making-a-foam-free-arch-with-janelle-gerestein/) - Tara Whittaker Photography Recently, an image of a floral arch caught our attention. Because it was designed by floral artist and flower friend, Janelle Gerestein (Janie) at Flowers by Janie, we reached out to ask her about the mechanics and process she used to design and install the stunning arch. Janie is always generous with - [The New Art of Paper Flowers with Quynh D. Nguyen](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-new-art-of-paper-flowers-with-quynh-d-nguyen/) - Paper flower artist Quynh D. Nguyen shares details about her book, The New Art of Paper Flowers. Learn why paper flowers are a good companion to fresh flowers. - [How Is The Floral Profession Affecting Your Health?](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-is-the-floral-profession-affecting-your-health/) - Florists are passionate about flowers and the joy they bring to the world. Behind the beauty is often a story of overcoming mental and physical challenges. - [How Layla Robinson Found Her Niche in Dried Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-layla-robinson-found-her-niche-in-dried-flowers/) - Floral artist Layla Robinson shares how she moved away from working with fresh flowers to eventually find her niche using dried flowers for installations. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 20](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-20/) - One of our readers was asked to create a number of dried flower arrangements and asked for advice. Here's what our expert panel said. - [BB+ Episode 14: Bex Partridge on Everlasting Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-14-bex-partridge-on-everlasting-flowers/) - Bex Partridge, owner of Botanical Tales, specializes in everlasting flowers. Hear her process for growing, cutting, drying, and designing with dried flowers. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 77](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-77/) - Members of the Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel answer this question: Do you have any tips for creating an easy to hold, big and wildly unstructured bouquet? - [How She Did It: Wearable Florals](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-she-did-it-wearable-florals/) - Learn to create 3 styles of wearable florals in this tutorial - an over-the-shoulder cascading floral tattoo, a floral hairpiece, and a floral ring - [BB Podcast Episode 2: Susan McLeary](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-2-susan-mcleary/) - Floral Artist Susan McCleary shares her expertise in creating living jewelry. Hear the story behind her award winning design on the cover of Fusion Magazine. - [The Poppy Approach to Wedding Florals](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-poppy-flowers-approach-to-wedding-florals/) - Poppy Founder Cameron Hardesty shares how they empower 900 freelance floral designers, offering them flexibility and opportunities to showcase their creativity. - [BB Podcast Episode 77: Susan Stremlau](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-77-susan-stremlau/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Susan Stremlau | Meg Sexton Photography Today we’re visiting with Susan Stremlau, owner of Marion Moss Floral Design in Petaluma, California to chat about: growing a flower business from a side gig to a full-time career the catalyst behind her decision to make a business & lifestyle change rebranding - [BB Podcast Episode 91: Hannah Brannan](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-91-hannah-brannan/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Hannah Brannan, owner of California-based Gather Flora — a platform for farmers, florists, grocers, and resellers that provides the tools needed to connect your business to flower sales in a streamlined, local, and even more sustainable way. Join us as we talk with Hannah about: - [Win a Françoise Weeks Workshop](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/win-a-francoise-weeks-workshop/) - UPDATE: Congratulations to Laurence Rich on winning the Francoise Weeks Botanical Couture Workshop! Image: Suzanne Ofeldt The "why" behind this giveaway For years, Françoise Weeks has inspired us as designers and impacted our industry with her innovative European design, Botanical Haute Couture creations, and unique Woodland-inspired arrangements. Way back in 2013, I teamed up with - [Dropping By The Brouhaha: Sachi Rose](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/dropping-by-the-brouhaha-sachi-rose/) - I’m overjoyed to have Sachi dropping by BB today to share a little of her story with us. If you’re not familiar with Sachi’s work, you’re in for a treat! Her designs are artistic and stunning. Enjoy! Botanical Brouhaha: Welcome to the Brouhaha! What inspired you to become a floral designer? When and where did - [A Visit With Zita Elze](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/visit-zita-elze/) - We're extremely honored to have Zita Elze, owner of Zita Elze Flowers and Zita Elze Design Academy (London, UK) joining us today. Her story will leave you inspired to pursue those gifts that are uniquely yours...and pursue them with passion. Grab a cup of coffee and spend a little time getting to know Zita! BB: - [Tutorial: The Re-Textured Tablescape ](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tutorial-the-re-textured-tablescape/) - A Step-by-Step Tutorial with Joseph Massie Joseph Massie | Stella Photography I don’t know about you, but my prop budget (or indeed, the necessity for new props) has been more than a little lacking this year! As such, we’ve been busy in our studio putting our creativity to the test and finding new ways to - [Jenn Ederer: The Client Lead Process](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/jenn-ederer-client-leads-process/) - by Jenn Ederer (Modern Day Collective) A value I will always stand by in my business is being honest and transparent with our clients about our whole process, from beginning to end. It’s about building trust from the very start of our relationship so that they know they’re in good hands when they book with - [Jenn Ederer: Growing & Leading A Team](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/jenn-ederer-growing-leading-team-floral/) - Do you ever look at extremely successful peers in our industry and wonder how they do it all? We hear people say all the time that we have the same 24 hours in a day as someone with a HUGE empire, like Oprah. Technically, yes... it’s true, but they’re missing the fact that Oprah has - [Discovering OshunPouch with Courtlynn Byargeon](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/discovering-oshunpouch-with-courtlynn-byargeon/) - We're honored to introduce you to Courtlynn Byargeon, owner of Lovelily Flowers, in today's post. Recently, we had the opportunity to collaborate with Courtlynn and OshunPouch to give you a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the possibilities of using this new tool in the creative process. Enjoy! What is OshunPouch? It's a novel Expandable Floral Pouch mechanic. A - [Passionflower Visits a Francoise Weeks Wedding Workshop](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/passionflower-visits-a-francoise-weeks-wedding-workshop/) - In May of this year, I teamed up with Francoise Weeks to give one lucky Botanical Brouhaha reader the chance to attend her 3-Day Wedding Workshop in Portland. Susan McLeary (aka Passionflower Sue) was the winner and attended the workshop last month. I’ve asked her to write a guest post for today and share a - [The Mum Project](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-mum-project/) - Written by Jessica Hall, Founder of The Mum Project at Harmony Harvest Farm What does it really take to change an industry? To make advancements that move the synergy of a collective group ahead in their field? For the American Floral industry, it could be as simple as one flower, the chrysanthemum, or at least - [The Quest for Excellence at Madrid Flower School](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-quest-for-excellence-at-madrid-flower-school/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Sylvia Bustamante | Founder of MFS | Image: Milena Orlandi Today we’re catching up with Sylvia Bustamante, founder of Madrid Flower School. You may remember our conversations with Sylvia in Episode 42 (2019) and Episode 90 (2022). As Sylvia continues to grow MFS, she's introducing new educational opportunities for - [Employee Retention Strategy for Florists: Innovative Workspaces](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/employee-retention-strategy-for-florists-innovative-workspaces/) - Innovative workspaces and environments are impacting employee retention in the current workplace. How can we make that work in our favor as florists and farmer florists? If we can figure out how to introduce alternate work environments in creative ways it'll likely enhance employee satisfaction and retention. Here are some ideas: 1️⃣ Flexible Schedules: - - [How Stacy K Built a Solid Flower Shop Foundation](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-stacy-k-built-a-solid-flower-shop-foundation/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify The Art of Diversification in Growing a Flower Shop Stacy K Ercan, owner of Stacy K Floral in Rochester, New York joins us to talk all things retail floristry in Ep. 116. She shares the details of the expansion of her flower shop, which now includes a collaborative space - [Wonder of the Woodlands with Francoise Weeks](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/wonder-of-the-woodlands-with-francoise-weeks/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Image courtesy of @botanicallyinspired The Wonder of Woodlands In episode 120, we have the pleasure of reconnecting with the incredible Francoise Weeks, whose hands weave magic with woodland designs. She's back with a treasure trove of wisdom in her new book, Wonder of the Woodlands: The Art of Seeing - [The True Value Behind Flower Shop Prices Explained](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-true-value-behind-flower-shop-prices-explained/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Liz Marie Photo Flower Shop Pricing: Native Poppy Insights In episode 119, Natalie & Meg, co-owners of Native Poppy, take us behind the scenes of their retail shops in San Diego, where they've created an immersive experience for their customers. In an effort to explain the price gap between - [How Marsha Parker's Flowers Impact Survivors](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-marsha-parkers-flowers-impact-survivors/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Embracing Beauty and Resilience Today we're sharing with you a truly inspiring conversation we had with Marsha Parker, a remarkable teacher, cancer survivor, and the creative force behind Refined Gatherings. Marsha's story is one of passion, resilience, and the transformative power of beauty in our lives — especially through - [Flower Farming for Profit with Lennie Larkin](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flower-farming-for-profit-with-lennie-larkin/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Lennie Larkin | Molly DeCoudreaux Photography Writing Flower Farming For Profit Writing a book was a natural progression for flower farmer Lennie Larkin, owner of B-Side Farm, as she looked for ways to share the wealth of knowledge she'd accumulated with others who might be on a similar path. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 88](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-88/) - Question: How would I attach a garland all the way around a square chuppah that will then be used over the head table? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel Answers: If you want to be able to remove a garland easy so you can re-apply it elsewhere, I would suggest zip ties. These will let you attach - [Tutorial: Using A Pin Frog In Event Floral Design](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tutorial-using-a-pin-frog-in-event-floral-design/) - A Tutorial by Alyssa Lytle, owner of Flowering Minds Part 2 of a 3-part series (see Part 1 here) Pin Frog provided by Floral Genius Although we use pin frogs for our everyday flower deliveries, we find that they really shine when used for event floral design. Every event is, in and of itself, a work - [Teen Becomes Apprentice for Flourishing Floral Business](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/teen-becomes-apprentice-for-flourishing-floral-business/) - Ryan Price Photography Introduction Hello everyone, this is Botanical Brouhaha Teen Apprentice Carmella (pictured above far right). I’m excited about the opportunity to write for you guys and share my experiences of how I became first an intern and now an apprentice for Botanical Brouhaha. I will also tell you about the process I went - [Tips On Styling A Flatlay](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tips-on-styling-a-flatlay/) - What is a Flatlay? Before we dive into tips on styling a flatlay, maybe we should answer the question: What is a flatlay? A flatlay is an image or a style of photograph in which a number of things are arranged on a surface and then photographed from above. Now, we can jump in! Styling - [Audience Questions Answered: Q&A Session](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/audience-questions-answered-qa-session/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify As Season 7 of the BB Podcast draws to a close, we're taking time to answer some of the floral questions we've received over the last few months from our listeners. This was a short season, but it was packed with valuable lessons and engaging discussions. We couldn't think - [BB Podcast Episode 72: Lucy Hunter](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-72-lucy-hunter/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Lucy Hunter | Image: Jessica Reeve Photography Today we’re visiting with Lucy Hunter (aka The Flower Hunter) in North Wales to discuss: her early career in a "proper job" and why she left it the dream brief she landed as a garden designer why she temporarily lost her creativity - [The Art and Science of Rooftop Farming with Joanna Letz](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-art-and-science-of-rooftop-farming-with-joanna-letz/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Growing Blooms in the Sky In today's BB Podcast Episode (No. 112), we're visiting with Joanna Letz, owner of Bluma Flower Farm, a rooftop flower farm in Berkeley, California. If you're intrigued by the thought of Joanna's transition from traditional farming to rooftop farming (six stories up in the - [Abby Daigle's Floral Entrepreneurship Evolution](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/abby-daigles-floral-entrepreneurship-evolution/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify As podcasters, we've had the privilege of hosting numerous guests on our show, each with their own unique stories and insights. In Episode 111, we had the pleasure of interviewing Abby Daigle, owner of Stems in Austin, Texas. She's a florist who grew up in the events industry, started - [Urban Flower Farm Becomes Blooming Oasis](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/urban-flower-farm-becomes-blooming-oasis/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Brigid Lally Photography An Urban Flower Farm in San Diego In today's BB Podcast Episode (No. 110), we're visiting with Rachel Nafis, owner of Psalter Farm Flowers, an urban flower farm nestled in the heart of San Diego, California. Rachel's journey from nursing to farming is not only inspiring - [How Self-Reflection Led Graeme Corbett to Business Progress](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-self-reflection-led-graeme-corbett-to-business-progress/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify In Episode 109, Botanical Brouhaha Podcast co-hosts Amy and Natalie welcome guest Graeme Corbett of Bloom & Burn back to the show. Since his initial interview in BB Podcast Ep. 53, Graeme's life has taken some significant twists and turns which we thought would be encouraging to our audience - [The Power of Connection: Sweet Root Village Joins Circle Weddings](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-power-of-connection-sweet-root-village-joins-circle-weddings/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify In our first episode of Season 7 (Ep. 108), we're chatting with Rachel Bridgwood, co-owner of a wedding and event floral studio we bet you've heard of called Sweet Root Village. Rachel shares some of the experiences and challenges she's had while running a floral business, from managing employees - [Flower Business: A System To Set You Free](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flower-business-a-system-to-set-you-free/) - Flower Business by April Vomfell April Vomfell (Owner, Flathead Farmworks) Several years ago when I was leaving a professional job and training a replacement, I realized how much I depend on templates and processes. My first thought was, I'm either really lazy or kind of brilliant. I just can't stand doing the same tedious things - [BB Podcast Bonus Episode: Natalie Gill Joins the Circle](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-bonus-episode-natalie-gill-joins-the-circle/) - Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Natalie Gill | Native Poppy TOPIC: Introducing the Bloom Trust Co. CIRCLE Natalie's mission to work hard and be nice resonates with me, so it’s no surprise that she's made several guest appearances on the Botanical Brouhaha Podcast over the years talking about everything from Finding - [Reader's Report: Wholesale Flowers (Suppliers)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/readers-report-wholesale-flowers-suppliers/) - A Guest Post by Carmella | Botanical Brouhaha Teen Apprentice Recently we asked our Botanical Brouhaha community to share their favorite suppliers of wholesale flowers with us, and as usual y'all came through. You'll notice that the majority of suppliers on the list are in the US (where Botanical Brouhaha is based), but because our - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 10](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-10/) - We have a new panel member! Meet Nick Priestly, owner of Mood Flowers… After gaining an Honors degree in International Business & Languages and pursuing a career in London’s financial district, Nick returned to Glasgow in 2003 to open Mood Flowers and retrained as a florist. Today his business now operates from an 1,800 square - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 9](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-9/) - The Question: “Does anyone have a good post-wedding hand recovery treatment they would recommend? My hands are always so torn up after doing a wedding - rose thorns, blisters, scratches, splinters, wire cuts, etc. Any good lotions or soaking treatments?” (submitted by a designer in Texas) The Answers: “My favorite hand cream is Crabtree - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 8](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-8/) - The Question: “What should be included in a contract? Do contracts differ from state to state? Where can I get a sample? (submitted by a reader in Florida) The Answers: “My contract is very basic. It states all of the basic information about the wedding [date, time, location(s), name of the bride and groom, etc.]. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 7](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-7/) - The Question: What is your best piece of advice for a designer just starting out in the flower business? The Answers: “Find a MENTOR. Or two. When first starting out, I thought I was the only person on the planet facing the issues I was facing... dreaming the dreams I was dreaming... But you're not - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 4](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-4/) - The Question: I need some help on mechanics for a 3-4 ft Manzanita tree centerpiece. I'm using a wooden base but not sure what size I need for that size tree? Also, not sure how to secure it and still be able to fit foam for florals at the base of the tree? (submitted by - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 1](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-1/) - Question: Which tools would you suggest a floral designer spend extra money on and which tools do you feel you can skimp on? (submitted by a reader in Colorado) Answers: “In the beginning, my advice would be to only buy the tools as you need them - everything from clippers to floral tape to vases. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 6](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-6/) - The Question: "What's everyone else's process/timeline for making, bagging, and delivering corsages and boutonnières? I was trained in an old-school flower shop where each one was made two days prior to an event, individually bagged (and misted) and labeled. However, I have seen so many amazing images with displays of boutonnieres laid out and labeled - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 5](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-5/) - The Question: "I am thinking about doing wedding flowers full time. I want to purchase flowers from my local wholesaler with a resale #. On the application they want to talk to your bank and have you open a credit account. Is this really necessary? I really have no need to have credit with them. - [And The Winner Is…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is/) - …Bloom Boxx…Commenter #7!! Thanks to all who entered and a huge thank you to Alicia for offering her book to a Botanical Brouhaha reader! Didn't win, but interested in getting your own copy of Bella Bouquets? Click here for details. - [Order Yourself A Copy Of Bella Bouquets…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/order-yourself-a-copy-of-bella-bouquets/) - For those of you who didn’t win the autographed copy of Bella Bouquets last week…but still would like a copy for your library…you can order a copy here…would be a great book to have on hand for consultations with future brides! Thanks again, Alicia, for giving a copy of Bella Bouquets to a Botanical Brouhaha - [Surprise!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/surprise/) - Two of my favorite people in the world got engaged last night… Congratulations Chelsey & Caleb! Thanks Emily for capturing the moment… - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 2](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-2/) - Question: I don't live near a large flower market where I can hand pick my flowers from a large selection. Can you recommend a reliable flower source who ships? (submitted by a reader in Texas) Answers: “Befriend your closest wholesaler, or 2 or 3 who should be able to send you weekly lists of what - [Introducing The Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/introducing-the-botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel/) - I’m tickled pink about this panel who will be answering your questions monthly! Meet the experts… Laetitia Mayor (Floresie) Burgundy, France Elisabeth Zemetis (Blush Floral Design) Madison, Connecticut Liz Rusnac (Fleur:ology) Portland, Oregon Holly Chapple (Holly Heider Chapple Flowers) Leesburg, Virginia Image: Kelly Brown Clare Day (Clare Monica Day) Victoria, British Columbia Image: Neale Smith - [BB+ Episode 24: Yasamin Salavatian on Brand Communication](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-24-yasamin-salavatian-on-brand-communication/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY'S GUEST: YASAMIN SALAVATIAN TOPIC: BRAND COMMUNICATION IN TRUE YOU FASHION If you're struggling to find the words to convey who you are and what you do, today's episode is for you! We can't wait for you to meet Yasamin Salavatian, Yasi for - [BB+ Episode 22: Joseph Massie on Writing 'The Flower School'](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-22-joseph-massie-on-writing-the-flower-school/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify all images courtesy of Zuzi Salajkova at Stella Photography TODAY’S GUEST: Joseph Massie author of The Flower School: The Principles and Pleasures of Good Flowers the youngest designer ever to win 5 consecutive RHS gold medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Founder and Creative Director at Joseph - [BB+ Episode 23: Hitomi Gilliam on the FREESIA Summit](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-23-hitomi-gilliam-on-the-freesia-summit/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Hitomi Gilliam AIFD TODAY'S TOPIC: FREESIA Summit Today I’ve invited our friend Hitomi Gilliam back to the podcast to talk about the FREESIA Challenge & upcoming FREESIA Summit she co-founded with Gregor Lersch and Colin Gilliam. Since the summit is right around the corner, I’ve asked Hitomi to - [BB Podcast Ep. 106: Amy Dunlap](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-106-amy-dunlap/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Glessner Photography Today we’re visiting with Amy Dunlap, owner of Stemz, Inc. in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Amy never could seem to avoid the draw of flower shop jobs in high school and college. After studying horticulture in college and getting a Masters degree in Agricultural Education and Communication, she - [BB Podcast Ep. 105: Tina Sharpe](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-105-tina-sharpe/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Tina Sharpe, owner of Living Fresh Home Goods & Flower Shop in St. Jacobs, Ontario. Tina has woven together a business model uniquely built on her life experiences - first managing garden centers and greenhouses, then studying floral and interior design, and ultimately finding the - [BB Podcast Ep. 104: Brittany Sarhage](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-104-brittany-sarhage/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Delaney Jean Photography Today we’re visiting with Brittany Sarhage, owner of Rudy's Flower Truck in St. Louis, Missouri. Brittany embodies the courage and tenacity most of us wish we had. She started a flower truck business with no prior experience in the industry and has continued to steadily grow - [BB Podcast Episode 84: Holley Simmons](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-84-holley-simmons/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Holley Simmons, owner of She Loves Me in Washington, D.C. Holley's background is in journalism and she worked as a Food Reporter for The Washington Post before finding her way to floristry. Join us as we talk about: how terrariums led her from a career - [8 Gorgeous Arrangements Made With Leftovers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/8-gorgeous-arrangements-made-with-leftovers/) - You amaze me with your leftovers! Bella Fiori gbc style Alluring Blooms The Blue Carrot The Basement Florist Meg Connelly Lock Cottage Flowers Tulipina Find more leftover floral arrangements here! - [Working Designer Wednesday: Documents](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-documents/) - I’ve had several designers email me asking how to write a contract for wedding flowers. Today I’m going to share with you all the documents I used to create a bride’s file. I have to be honest…I’m feeling a little vulnerable. Isn’t that silly? But, really, I’m putting my “business self” on the web for - [A Little Experiment…With A Surprising Result](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/a-little-experimentwith-a-surprising-result/) - One day last month I was walking through the grocery store and saw roses on sale for $6.99/doz. I can’t help but stop and look, but I very rarely buy flowers at the grocery store. Why? Because you never know how long they’ve been sitting there or how long it’s been since they were cut - [Guess Where I Went Last Week…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/guess-where-i-went-last-week/) - Can you tell by the incredible landscape? That’s right…Santa Fe, New Mexico! I spent the week with by husband and boys enjoying the cool weather, lack of allergies and beautiful high desert landscape. We stayed in a wonderful casita...owned by an amazing artist… …loved the entrance to our private courtyard… …and the stone path to - [Flowers of Santa Fe](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flowers-of-santa-fe/) - Last week I escaped the Texas heat (100+ degrees) for the cool mountain air of New Mexico. While my garden was begging to stay alive, the flowers in Santa Fe were thriving…what a thrill for me! …butterfly bush… …cottage yarrow… …trailing petunias… …what’s this? loved it… …amazing color… …obedient plant… …drifts of phlox… …daises… …one - [Kit Got Married!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/kit-got-married/) - Last weekend we drove into the country… down a dirt road through the bluebonnets…to witness one of the sweetest weddings I’ve ever attended. Kit is about as laid back as they come and she has her priorities straight…marriage and relationship first…chic wedding details second. So, the ceremony was deeply spiritual and moving…and the wedding details - [Welcome](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/welcome/) - …to my garden… …poppies grown from seed given to us years ago by the good people at The Antique Rose Emporium… …scabiosa on the verge of blooming….love to watch these open… …the ruffled open bloom of scabiosa… …’Belinda’s Dream’ rose…one of my favorites…drought tolerant…easy to care for… fragrant…large blooms… …heavenly-scented sweet peas…10-12 in. stems…great for - [Sweet Baby Girl](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/sweet-baby-girl/) - I happened on a picture today…from nearly two years ago…brought back memories of a summer afternoon spent with precious baby J…and it’s timely because I’ll have the chance to spend some time with this sweet girl in just a few days… …and, hey, it’s a “botanical” picture…but I’m a little embarrassed because her mom is - [BB Podcast Ep. 103: Felicia Alvarez](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-103-felicia-alvarez/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Felicia Alvarez, owner of Menagerie Farm & Flower in the Sacramento Valley of California. Felicia returned to the prune farm she grew up on to raise her own children there —and decided to add a rose farm and nursery to the property. She's a committed - [BB Podcast Episode 28: Kelly Mendenhall](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-28-kelly-mendenhall/) - "There may or may not be a Lego man in your bouquet." -Kelly Mendenhall (mother of 3) Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Kelly Mendenhall, owner of 3 Leaf Floral in Grand Junction, Colorado, to discuss: how workshop attendance affected the trajectory of her business how - [BB Podcast Ep. 101: Hitomi Gilliam + Gregor Lersch](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-101-hitomi-gilliam-gregor-lersch/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify From YOUR HOST, AMY MCGEE: While I could go on and on about Hitomi Gilliam & Gregor Lersch — the things they've accomplished, the books they’ve written, and the competitions they’ve won — I’ll leave the details of their stories to them. I want you to hear it in - [BB Podcast Ep. 100: Melissa Sullivan](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-ep-100-melissa-sullivan/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Catherine Leanne Photography Today we’re visiting with Melissa Sullivan, owner of Le Bloomerie in Los Gatos, California. Melissa jumped into the floral profession with enthusiasm after a career in healthcare. She believes in dreaming big and tuning out any negativity as she pursues her dreams. Join us as we - [BB Podcast Bonus Episode: Judge Victoria Pratt](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-bonus-episode-judge-victoria-pratt/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify At Botanical Brouhaha, we've spent over a decade sharing our belief in the power of flowers to change lives and impact communities. Today's bonus episode of the BB Podcast not only supports that notion, but also serves as a call to action for us to continue using our artistic - [BB Podcast Episode 99: Hannah Lowery](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-99-hannah-lowery/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Image: Nadine Berns | Just Like Honey Today we’re visiting with Hannah Lowery, owner of Edges Wild Studio in Houston, Texas. Hannah has been honing her craft and finding words to describe her unique style for several years and we love the direction she's headed! Join us as we - [BB Podcast Episode 98: Katie Allen + Jenny Rausch](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-98-katie-allen-jenny-rausch/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Image: tiffff Today we’re visiting with Jenny Rausch (left) and Katie Allen (right), owners of Anthousai, a boutique floral and gift shop in the heart of the historic Kendall Whittier District in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It's no secret that many business partnerships simply don't work - [Cape Lily: Behind the Scenes of a 'Covid Detour'](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/cape-lily-behind-the-scenes-of-a-covid-detour/) - How I was forced to find an alternate business model while stuck at home with a toddler during Covid... by Sylvia Lukach | Cape Lily Image courtesy of Main Street Media It’s 8pm on a Monday. I’m listening to my three and a half year old pound the door of her bedroom in a - [Jenn Ederer: 3 Things I Wish I'd Known When Starting Out](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/jenn-ederer-3-things-i-wish-id-known-when-starting-out/) - Today is the final guest post in Jenn Ederer's 5-part series and we can't say thank you enough for her generosity in sharing valuable and practical information on booking and managing luxury weddings, as well as, building a strong team while staying organized. Please feel free to leave Jenn a message in the comment section - [Jenn Ederer: Landing Luxury Floral Budgets](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/jenn-ederer-landing-luxury-floral-budgets/) - by Jenn Ederer (Modern Day Collective) In my last blog post, I shared all about how I approach the client lead process and the initial consultation meeting. This time around, I want to share what happens after the client books. This is the part where we get to do what we do best - designing - [Jenn Ederer: Top Tools For Wedding & Event Professionals](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/jenn-ederer-top-tools-wedding-event-professionals/) - We're diving into a 5-post series with a special guest! Jenn Ederer of Modern Day Collective will join us over the next 5 posts to share her expertise related to large scale event design and building a strong team. If you missed her BB Podcast interview, you may want to take time to listen to - [Work Break Permission Granted](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/work-break-permission-granted/) - You're a busy flower business owner feeling like you can barely keep up. Your clients depend on you to deliver your artistry in a way that will convey the heart of the emotions surrounding their important day — whether it's a wedding, a birthday, a funeral, or an anniversary. You're exhausted. Need permission to take - [BB Podcast Episode 97: Ginny Early](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-97-ginny-early/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Sarah Ingram Photography Today we’re visiting with floral designer Ginny Early, owner of Enemies of the Average in Gainesville, Georgia. Join us as we talk with Ginny about: Flowering for weddings, museums, and editorial shoots Using the painful experiences she's walked through as a catalyst to support other women - [BB Podcast Episode 94: Pili Fuentes](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-94-pili-fuentes/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Pili Fuentes | image by Samantha Rose Creative Co Today we’re visiting with floral designer Pili Fuentes, owner of Las Floristas in Mexico City, Mexico. Pili is also the founder 0f Flower House Mexico and co-founder of the European Association for Flower Growers. Join us as we talk - [BB+ Episode 21: Lauren & Leah Palmer on Send Flowers To MMIW](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-21-lauren-leah-palmer-on-send-flowers-to-mmiw/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify L-R: Lauren Palmer, Leah Palmer, Callie Palmer TODAY’S GUESTS: Lauren & Leah Palmer | The Wild Mother TOPIC: Send Flowers to MMIW In May 2022, the Palmer sisters, owners of The Wild Mother, will embark on their annual Send Flowers To project. This year the project will surround MMIW - [BB Podcast Episode 70: Lauren Palmer + Leah Palmer](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-70-lauren-palmer-leah-palmer/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify (L-R) Leah Palmer, Lauren Palmer, Callie Palmer | Monica Burgess Photography Today we’re visiting with Lauren Palmer & Leah Palmer, owners of The Wild Mother located in the Arts District, Downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on Kickapoo, Osage, Wichita, & Comanche land. What a pleasure to discuss the following topics - [BB Podcast Episode 93: John Gibbons](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-93-john-gibbons/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with John Gibbons, owner of Lakes & Rivers Flower Farm in Liverpool, England. Join us as we talk with John about: transitioning from makeup artist to flower farmer how his time at Dior inspired his career in flower farming utilizing an allotment to get a taste - [BB Podcast Episode 92: Sarah Shell](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-92-sarah-shell/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Sarah Shell, owner of Fern Studio Flowers in Columbia, South Carolina. Join us as we talk with Hannah about: her "tiny career detour as a lawyer" and how she found her way back to flowers finding the education she needed to learn floral design - [BB Podcast Bonus Episode: Introducing CIRCLE 2022](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-bonus-episode-introducing-circle-2022/) - Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TOPIC: INTRODUCING CIRCLE 2022 TODAY’S GUESTS: NATALIE GILL | NATIVE POPPY TWYLA REIMER | REMI + GOLD JEN DONOHUE | JUNIPER LANE FLORAL DESIGN KORI GERVASIO | COLLY FLOWERS In this episode, we’re chatting with Jen and Kori - [Working Designer Wednesday: The Flower Proposal (Bid)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-the-flower-proposal-bid/) - I’ve received many emails asking how to write a proposal or bid…what to include, how to organize it and how to estimate costs. I’m a bit overwhelmed with the subject because there are so many factors involved and so many ways to approach a bid. Once again, I’m feeling a little vulnerable…after all, the only - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 14](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-14/) - The Question: Name your favorite variety of orange rose, spray rose, bicolor/specialty rose, garden rose and lavender rose. **************************************************************************************************** From Sarah Winward (Honey of a Thousand Flowers): Orange rose - Never used one, but I like lots of peachy oranges like the Campanella Spray rose – Majolica Bicolor/Specialty Rose - Eden Romantica, not sure if - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 16](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-16/) - The Question: “I am struggling to find nice footed vases [urns/compotes]... and I see those all over the blogs of my American fellows. Are there any good wholesalers in the US that you would recommend (and ideally would ship overseas...)? (from a designer in France) **************************************************************************************************** The Answers: “Jamali Garden is not wholesale to the - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 29](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-29/) - image via Giverny Design The Question: How do you condition hydrangeas? Do you treat all colors of hydrangeas the same? Some seem to be a bit more fragile than others. ******************************************************************************* The Answers: I've always had pretty good luck with white hydrangeas, and I have noticed that colored ones are trickier! I simply give them - [Fashion-Forward Inspiration Shoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/fashion-forward-inspiration-shoot/) - I’m so excited to share this photo shoot with you today! Carmel of Mt. Lebanon Floral dreamed up the fashion-forward floral designs modeled by gorgeous Steph DeFelice and captured by accomplished photographer, Kaela Speicher. The results are breathtaking. From the unique dahlia, scabiosa & shrimp plant floral headpiece…to the simple posy of green dianthus….to the - [BB Podcast Episode 42: Sylvia Bustamante Gubbins](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-42-sylvia-bustamante-gubbins/) - "Mother, we came to New York for you to be a writer and now you're going to be a florist?" -daughter of Sylvia Bustamante Gubbins Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Sylvia Bustamante Gubbins, founder of Madrid Flower School in Madrid, Spain to discuss: what led her - [BB Podcast Episode 90: Sylvia Bustamante Gubbins](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-90-sylvia-bustamante-gubbins/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Sylvia Bustamante Gubbins | Founder of MFS | Image: Milena Orlandi Today we’re catching up with Sylvia Bustamante Gubbins, owner of Madrid Flower School. You may remember our conversation with Sylvia in Episode 42 (2019) when she had just opened MFS. So much has happened since that conversation, we - [Working Designer Wednesday: Design Book Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-design-book-giveaway/) - Good morning, flower friends! Since many of you said you would be interested in my design books as I downsize my collection, today I’m giving away the first one… to have & to hold by David Stark & Avi Adler I’ve read and reread this book and I want it to go to another loving - [The Winner](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-winner-2/) - …of “to have and to hold”… …is Commenter #2 Hannah! Please contact me by email (botanicalbrouhaha@gmail.com) with your mailing address so I can send the book your way… Happy Friday! - [Keeping It Real](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/keeping-it-real/) - I feel that I have to share a part of myself with you today. No flowers today, so I’ll understand if you want to scoot on to another flower blog…but, for today, I have to keep it real and share with you what’s on my heart. For the last year my little family has been - [Woodland Designs By Françoise Weeks](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/woodland-designs-by-francoise-weeks/) - I’m so excited about today’s post! Not only am I going to introduce you to a phenomenal designer, but I have a little surprise for you at the end of the post… Meet Françoise Weeks (if you don’t already know her)… Born in Belgium, Françoise now calls Portland home…where she weaves garden material into intricate - [And The Winner Is…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is-2/) - Commenter #3… My Fleur Journey! Hope you enjoy your Francoise Weeks notecards… Thanks to all who entered our little giveaway…there are more just around the corner! - [And The Winner…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-4/) - …of the Carolyne Roehm books is…well, wait a minute! Commenter #10 (Margaret in Austin) is the winner…but her comment reads: “I was one of the winners of "Flower Confidential" in the book giveaway on the Great Flower Lady's blog last month, (thanks again, Tracy, great book!) so I would like to suggest you give these - [Working Designer Wednesday: Another Book Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-another-book-giveaway/) - A while back, I asked if anyone would be interested in design books from my library as I try to scale back my collection. Many of you responded “yes”, so I have another giveaway for you…this time a 3 pc. set… These “notebooks” are full of gorgeous photos, design instructions, gardening advice and recipes. They - [And The Winner…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-3/) - …of the 3-Day Françoise Weeks Wedding Workshop is…..drum-roll, please…. Laurie from Fleurie!! Congratulations, Laurie….and thanks to all who entered. I was excited to see some new names pop up in the comments! I look forward to hearing about Laurie’s experiences with Françoise…think I see a follow-up post in my future. Have a great July 4th - [The Best Giveaway Yet](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-best-giveaway-yet/) - I’m still amazed at what I have to offer today as a special giveaway! I’ve been so excited about sharing it with you and, finally, today’s the day I can reveal it to you. Some of you might remember a post I wrote about Françoise Weeks last month…if you missed it, you can read it - [Keeping It Real…The Next Chapter](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/keeping-it-realthe-next-chapter/) - I’ve been wrestling with this post for a couple of weeks now. Some of you will remember my first Keeping It Real post from May 6th…when I shared my family’s plans to sell our home and try to obediently follow in the direction we felt God was leading us. At that time, we had no - [Design Book Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/design-book-giveaway/) - It’s that time again! I have a book to giveaway…and it’s a goodie…Flower Power by Rebecca Cole… You will love this book…lots of signature Rebecca Cole designs…lots of step-by-step instructions…and beautiful photography. Are you familiar with Rebecca’s work? To enter the giveaway, leave a comment on this post before noon Friday…Texas time, of course…and I’ll - [And The Winner…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-2/) - …of Flower Power by Rebecca Cole is…. Wildstyle Designs!!! Please email me and include your mailing address so I can get your book in the mail! Thanks to all who “played”…I have so much fun putting in the numbers and watching for the random pick to come up! Have a great weekend and I’ll meet - [Working Designer Wednesday: Visiting Françoise Weeks’ Workshop](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-visiting-francoise-weeks-workshop/) - On July 1st, Laurie from Fleurie won the chance to attend a three day wedding workshop taught by Françoise Weeks at her enchanting studio on Portland, Oregon. I asked Laurie to document her trip and she did an amazing job of providing us with a glimpse into the magical world of Françoise Weeks. Get ready - [Visiting Françoise Weeks’ Workshop Part 2](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/visiting-francoise-weeks-workshop-part-2/) - …continued from yesterday…as told by Laurie of Fleurie… On day two, we talked about wedding decoration and Françoise showed us how to make the sweetest woodland cone arrangements. All of us were very excited to make these fun pieces to decorate chairs, pews, or shepherd hooks. We all reached for that papery bark to cover - [Giveaway Today!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/giveaway-today/) - Just in time for Christmas, our friend Françoise Weeks has offered to give one of her Botanical Shoes note card sets to a lucky Botanical Brouhaha reader…just look at these amazing photos taken by Joni Shimabukuro for the card fronts… …perfect stocking stuffer or gift for a flower-loving friend…just leave a comment on this post - [The Winner…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-winner/) - …of the Francoise Weeks Botanical Shoes note card set is… Chandi from Special Moments Flowers Now, please forgive me, y’all!! I had a very busy weekend that started with a plumbing leak and ended with an incredible college student moving in with our family…and in the midst of the excitement, I forgot to post the - [Taking A Tiny Break](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/taking-a-tiny-break/) - …from flowers today to share my heart. Occasionally, I just have an urge to share a little of myself with you in hopes that you understand the person behind Botanical Brouhaha…not sure if that’s a good idea or not, but I like authentic people and would like to be one. Lately, I’ve found myself sitting - [Living Dress by Joseph Massie](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/living-dress-by-joseph-massie/) - Joseph Massie recently designed this stunning living dress for Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips to wear to the National Television Awards (NTAs). The dress was decorated with real flowers used for homeopathic remedies: clematis, roses, hydrangeas and others. Arlene and Joseph are lending their support to a campaign launched by eleven homeopathic charities and - [BB Garden Work Day](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-garden-work-day/) - The time changes this weekend and that means longer days for working in the garden! It's my favorite time of year and we start preparing for it in the fall as we clean up, sow seed, and put the BB Garden to bed for the winter (winter: my least favorite time of year!). Last November - [Françoise Weeks Is Coming To Texas!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/francoise-weeks-is-coming-to-texas/) - I’m excited to announce that Françoise Weeks will be holding a workshop in Austin on March 3rd & 4th. I’ve dreamed of having Françoise visit our state for several years and my dream came true when Brooke Howsley of Pollen Floral Art agreed to host a Woodland/Wedding Design workshop at Mercury Hall in Austin. I - [Seasons Change: How A Local-Only Florist Works in the Winter](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/seasons-change-how-a-local-only-florist-works-in-the-winter/) - A Guest Post by Ellen Frost | Local Color Flowers But the winter will crave what has gone Will crave what has all Gone away - Future Islands (a Baltimore synthpop band - keeping it local) Ellen Frost | Photo by Laura Chase de Formigny There is a day each year when my business takes - [Confessions Of A Passionate Vacationer](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/confessions-of-a-passionate-vacationer/) - Time to take another break from flowers…seems these days are coming a little more often. It’s taken me a full week of emotional recovery and regrounding to come to a place where I can write a post about our Christmas trip. I’m warning you…it’s a touchy subject and I’m going to lay it out honestly. - [My Nanny](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/my-nanny/) - …taught me to love flowers and gardening…cooked my favorite meals…kept me laughing…told me about the birds and bees…taught me to pluck my eyebrows…interrupted my first jr. high kiss (shouldn’t have attempted that in her front yard…my bad)…called me on my honeymoon to see if I had any questions (wink wink), attended every school event I - [Working Designer Wednesday: Bella Bouquets Book Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-bella-bouquets-book-giveaway/) - I can’t tell you how excited I am today…my friend, Alicia, from Bella Fiori and Flirty Fleurs is giving an autographed copy of her book Bella Bouquets to one lucky Botanical Brouhaha reader… Are you familiar with Alicia’s floral design company, Bella Fiori? If not, I’d be happy to introduce you! Here are a few - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 11](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-11/) - I’m excited today for the opportunity you have to get to know a little more about one of our panel members before we tackle a new question…meet Clare Day, owner of Clare Day Flowers… Here’s how she describes her journey into the floral design business… “As a child, I grew up surrounded by gardens and - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 12](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-12/) - Today I asked another panel member, Elisabeth Zemetis, owner of Blush Floral Design, to share a bit about herself with you… “I have always loved flowers. Growing up I knew I wanted to work with my hands but didn’t know what medium I would pursue. In college I majored in Photography and Art History. Looking - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 13](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-13/) - I’m excited to introduce you to Holly Chapple today. I know you’ll love her story… “Since I consider Botanical Brouhaha and its readers my personal friends and family I am going to skip the professional type of bio and just kind of let my thoughts fly. Who I am and where I am going is - [When A Floral Designer Gets Married…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/when-a-floral-designer-gets-married/) - Over the years of working with brides, I’ve been asked many times about my own wedding bouquet. They just seem to be curious about which flowers a floral designer would choose. So…lately, I started to wonder the same thing about all of you designers. Last week I put out a plea for you to send - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 15](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-15/) - The Question: “I am thinking of doing a pop-up flower shop for Valentine's Day. I have a great location available and some nice support built in, but I am wondering about logistics. I would love to hear from some designers who have pulled it off before - what did they learn and what they would - [Thinking Of You](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/thinking-of-you/) - Oh boy…been feeling this post brewing for a week and today I guess it’s time to release my thoughts. You know how these kinds of wordy posts go…if you came for flower pictures, I’m not offended if you scoot along and catch up with me on Monday when we get back to beautiful flowers. I - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 17](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-17/) - image via Art with Nature The Question: I have a great opportunity to provide weekly flowers for a very upscale club in my area and would love to know the tips that others with these weekly contracts can pass along. Favorite long lasting flowers? Special conditioning tricks? How to change it up on a weekly - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 18](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-18/) - So excited for you to meet panel member Liz Rusnac from Fleurology today! I asked her to share with you about herself and her flower journey…. I have to start this out by saying how surreal it is for me to even be writing this bio in the first place. It truly is amazing how - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 19](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-19/) - The Question: Last year, I sat down with a bride and her planner to discuss her wedding flowers. She was a bride with unrealistic expectations (her flower budget was about what it would cost me wholesale just to buy the flowers I'd need to pull off her vision). But I came up with a plan - [Who I Really Am](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/who-i-really-am/) - That feeling came over me again this morning as I was driving to drop my son off at school. You know the feeling I’m talking about if you’ve read Botanical Brouhaha for very long. It’s the one where I need to say some non-flower things…and I always understand if you want to scoot along and - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 21](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-21/) - The Question: When I first started doing flowers I bought a used drink cooler for a few hundred dollars and had it in my garage. It froze my flowers once, so I got rid of it when I moved into a studio space. I bought a brand new True GDM 2 section 47 cu.ft. floral - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 22](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-22/) - The Question: As a busy floral designer, I am constantly getting inquiries. What a huge blessing! To determine whether or not the potential client and I are a good fit, I send them a questionnaire. They answer the questions by telling me more about the details and style of their event. They also select a - [Study With Françoise Weeks](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/study-with-francoise-weeks/) - I’m so excited to share my secret with you today! Françoise Weeks has offered a seat in her 3-day Wedding Design Workshop (October 7-9) at her Portland Studio to one lucky Botanical Brouhaha reader. All you have to do is leave a comment at the end of this post by Friday (May 10th) at noon - [And the Winner…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner/) - …of the 3-Day Françoise Weeks Wedding Design Workshop is…..drum-roll, please…. Susan @ Passionflower!! Congratulations, Susan….and thanks to all who entered. Francoise was so touched by the comments and new “faces” of those commenting that she has offered a 10% discount to anyone who didn’t win, but would still like to attend the workshop. Just mention - [Behind The Scenes: Julia Rose Creates a Floral Gown](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/behind-the-scenes-julia-rose-creates-a-floral-gown/) - I am so excited that Julia Rose offered to walk us through the creation of her floral gown for the QT Fashion Week & Awards…enjoy! ******************************************************************************* A few weeks ago I made a gown…a fresh floral gown for the QT Fashion Week and Awards…an Avante Garde Gown completely from fresh flowers and foliage. I built - [(inter)National Lonely Bouquet Day](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/international-lonely-bouquet-day/) - After weeks of tragic news and sadness from Texas to Boston to Oklahoma, I’m feeling a need to find a way for us to use our flowers to show the world some love. I think I found a great opportunity to do just that…and I’m so excited to share it with you today. Meet Emily - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 23](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-23/) - The Question: I am in the process of building out my first studio (in my home!) and am trying to gather thoughts and advice on building a good studio space. Things like minimum (and ideal) square footage, what designers love about their studios, or things they wish they had done differently are all very helpful - [Great Summer Opportunity at The New York Botanical Garden](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/great-summer-opportunity-at-the-new-york-botanical-garden/) - Summer Intensive Certificate programs at The New York Botanical Garden will begin in July. These programs offer concentrated sessions which allow students to complete up to half of all NYBG certification requirements in just two weeks for Gardening…and just five weeks for Floral and Landscape Design. The Landscape Design Summer Intensive runs July 8-August 9. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 24](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-24/) - The Question: What do you see as key elements to include on a floral design business website? ******************************************************************************************* The Answers: I love About pages that include an image of the designer. I want to connect to the person. I want to see the designer. Phone number…I hate when you have to dig through the contacts - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 25](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-25/) - image via Amy Merrick The Question: What is your favorite greenery for bouquets/arrangements? Feel free to name more than one! ********************************************************************************* The Answers: I love Seeded Eucalyptus and Sea Star Fern. For cascading or loose looking designs, I love Passionflower Vine and Jasmine Vine. -Holly Chapple (Holly Heider Chapple Flowers) ********************************************************************************** Herbs (Sage, Rosemary, Lavender) - [Botanical Brouhaha Turns 4!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-turns-4/) - I don’t know where to start, how much to say or how to adequately thank you all for reading BB over the last 4 years. What started out as a simple birthday gift to myself to help me feel connected to the flower world has turned into so much more. Writing BB has become an - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 26](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-26/) - image via Elan Flowers The Question: Based on your experience, can you name a flower that should be avoided in hand-tied bouquets? Which flowers are your favorites for hand-tied bouquets? *************************************************************************************** The Answers: I love asclepias but I have started to avoid this bloom. The seeping milk like sap is potentially dangerous if it should - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 27](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-27/) - image via Love ‘n Fresh Flowers The Question: How do you keep the ribbon-wrapped handles of your hand-tied bouquets dry during transport/delivery? ********************************************************************************************** The Answers: In reality this depends on a few things! If the bouquets are being delivered quite some hours before the wedding or on a warm day then we deliver all our - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 28](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-28/) - image via Cotton Blossom The Question: I'm trying to run a greener business. What do you do with all of your floral "trash"? I try to compost mine but I end up with far more than I can handle. Also, do you compost flowers that are not organically grown and might have been treated with - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 30](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-30/) - image via Exquisite Designs The Question: How do you keep gardenias looking fresh in designs? How do you keep them from yellowing? ********************************************************************* The Answers: We seem to have a really limited supply of gardenia in the UK as cut flowers; therefore, we would only use a couple of flowers maybe for a buttonhole or - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 31](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-31/) - image via Posh Floral Designs Question: How do fellow designers handle a client cancellation? I have been experiencing several a season for the past few years. They span from 6 months notice to less than a month's notice many times preventing me from booking another event on the day. It's a sensitive subject given the - [On A Personal Note](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/on-a-personal-note/) - Good Morning, flower friends! I had surgery last Friday and had planned to use my recuperation weeks as a sort of blogging retreat…blogging without distractions. My computer, however, had different plans and apparently needed a break, too. My hard drive crashed this weekend and is now undergoing its own little surgery as we try to - [Quite Possibly The Best Flower Story Ever](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/quite-possibly-the-best-flower-story-ever/) - I wanted this week to be filled with special flower features as we celebrate our 5th year of sharing flowers together on Botanical Brouhaha. I saved this story, which may be my favorite “flower story” to date, to share with you this week because it is truly special. Laetitia Mayor, a member of the Botanical - [Floral Boudoir Inspiration Shoot | Featuring Stacy K Floral](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/floral-boudoir-inspiration-shoot-featuring-stacy-k-floral/) - We’re fortunate today! Stacy of Stacy K Floral is dropping by the Brouhaha to share images from one of her recent projects…the most beautiful boudoir shoot we’ve ever seen! From Stacy: This shoot was a collaborative effort of some of Rochester's finest women owned businesses. We briefly brainstormed the concept and scheduled a date and - [Exotic Elegance: Floral Fashion Inspiration](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/exotic-elegance-floral-fashion-inspiration/) - Floral Design: Mt. Lebanon Floral Photography, Retouching, Wardrobe: Kaela Speicher Retouching Assistance: Leah Schonauer Hair: Natosha Durr Makeup: Shana Lohr - [Flower Math Winners](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flower-math-winners/) - A Note From Alison Ellis: Congratulations to the BB winners! You’ll receive an email shortly with details about the course and I'll see you over in Flower Math! And to those who did not win, but would like to take my course I'm offering a special price through midnight tonight! Save $149 if you sign - [Using Floral Foam Alternatives](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/using-floral-foam-alternatives/) - A Guest Post By Alyssa Lytle, Founder of Flowering Minds I am always on the lookout for new sustainable mechanics to utilize for events and to share with our flower community, Flowering Minds. Recently, a few new choices have popped up on the market and they are definitely worth giving a try! I don’t always - [BB Podcast Episode 68: Megan McHugh + Denise Richter](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-68-megan-mchugh-denise-richter/) - "I feel like Megan is the ship captain and she's like, 'I think I see something over there!' and I'm like, 'Ok, how do I get us there?'" Denise Richter | Co-owner, Pistil & Stamen Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Megan McHugh (r) & Denise Richter (l), co-founders of Pistil - [BB Podcast Episode 85: Sarah Diligent](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-85-sarah-diligent/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Gyan Gurung Photography Today we’re visiting with Sarah Diligent, owner of Floribunda Rose in Hampshire, England. Sarah describes herself as a Flowerist, author, and teacher. She believes deeply in the value of British flowers and her interest in sustainable floristry inspired her to write A Guide to Floral Mechanics - [Behind The Scenes: The Flower Fro](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/behind-the-scenes-the-flower-fro/) - Susan Mcleary of Passionflower is a floral artist who continuously dreams up innovative designs that push the envelope and convey the sense of joy she obviously experiences while designing. In addition to being an incredible designer, Susan is kind, generous and encouraging to fellow designers. What an honor to be invited along for a behind-the-scenes peek - [Flowers + Pets](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flowers-pets/) - Updated from 7/31/2015 Jappalin Manning of Flowertalk made my day with these amazing pet wearables. Great way to start our week. Have a favorite? Photography: Natalija Brunovs Did this post make you smile? See more pets + flowers here. - [Taking Time To Refuel Our Creativity](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/taking-time-to-refuel-our-creativity/) - Can you relate? My flower journey started in the garden, progressed into a floral design studio setting and eventually led to this amazing blogging world. I’ve loved every part of the journey, but it seems the deeper I get into the “flower business” I love, the farther I get from the actual flowers! It’s a - [Welcoming 2018 At A Slower Pace](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/welcoming-2018-slower-pace/) - I know we should be jumping into 2018 full steam ahead, but honestly, I just want to linger a few more days in the "down time". The academic calendar affords us a few more days of family time and we're grateful. A few more nights of talking about life until 2 am, whipping up family - [Now Open: Botanical Brouhaha Garden Style](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/now-open-botanical-brouhaha-garden-style/) - UPDATE: BB Garden Style is no longer open Nine days ago I mentioned on Instagram that we're working on a new project at Botanical Brouhaha. It came to fruition this week and I've been struggling all week to find the words to accurately explain the scope of what we're doing because it's not really - [BB Garden Style Update: Answering FAQs](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-garden-style-update-answering-faqs/) - UPDATE: BB Garden Style is no longer open. We're 9 months into the existence of the BB Garden Style shop and Workshop Series and feeling like it's time for an update on what we've been up to. Thanks are in order to all of you who have supported us in so many different ways - [Mornings with Maggie: Advertising on Social Media](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mornings-with-maggie-advertising-on-social-media/) - We’re excited to spend some mornings in the weeks to come with Maggie Bailey of Bramble & Bee brainstorming about everything from flowers to design to social media. Our conversation began one afternoon at a pizza bar and continued on throughout the afternoon as we moved down the street to a coffee house. We never - [Mornings with Maggie: Inside Bramble & Bee](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mornings-maggie-inside-bramble-bee/) - We’ve spend the last 3 weeks talking a lot about how we operate, but today, we wanted to share an inside look at our Bramble & Bee work space. If you’ve been following along, you’ll know that we put a lot of weight on branding- identifying your vibe, style, and ideal client - and we’ve - [Getting Your Swag On…. Forbesfield Style](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/getting-your-swag-on-forbesfield-style/) - A while back I saw three images of a swag design in progress posted by Beth at Forbesfield. When I asked her if I could share the images with the BB community, she came back to me with something even better…a step-by-step guide to recreating the mechanics she uses at Forbesfield when designing a swag! - [Debra Prinzing: Recipe for a Successful Field to Vase Dinner](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/debra-prinzing-recipe-for-a-successful-field-to-vase-dinner/) - Today is a great day at BB as we welcome a very special guest…Seattle-based writer, speaker and leading advocate for American grown flowers, Debra Prinzing. What an honor! We invited Debra to stop by and share her insights into what has made the Field to Vase Dinner Tour wildly successful. And, we were thrilled when - [Tutorial: Dyeing Ribbons with Fleuropean](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tutorial-dyeing-ribbons-with-fleuropean/) - I’m completely giddy over today’s post! Emily from Fleuropean spent lots of time experimenting and perfecting a technique for dyeing silk ribbon on our behalf and the results are amazing! Hope you enjoy the fruits of Emily’s labor as much as I have. Welcome, Emily…we’re so honored to have you on the Brouhaha today! Hello - [Behind The Scenes On A Floral Photo Shoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/behind-the-scenes-on-a-floral-photo-shoot/) - I’ve received many letters from floral designers over the years asking how to go about planning and executing a photo shoot. While some designers thrive on the creativity necessary to dream up and execute a shoot, others seem to be intimidated by the process and find themselves too overwhelmed to take the steps needed to - [Providing Safe Wedding Cake Flowers For Guests](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/providing-safe-wedding-cake-flowers-for-guests/) - Recently, I had the chance to visit with Houston floral designer Maggie Bailey of Bramble & Bee. Towards the end of our visit, the conversation somehow landed on wedding cake flowers which reminded me of all the emails I’ve received over the years asking about the safety of using certain flowers on cakes eaten by - [Love ‘n Fresh Flowers Presents: Master Class Series & Seed Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/love-n-fresh-flowers-presents-master-class-series-seed-giveaway/) - One of my favorite farmer florists, Jennie Love (I love her name so much, I always want to say her whole name), has announced her 2014 Master Class series called From Seed to Centerpiece. Jennie says, “It is geared towards experienced florists looking to add or increase the use of locally-grown materials in their design - [Surprise!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/surprise-2/) - I’m thrilled to announce that my friend Francoise Weeks is helping us celebrate the 5th anniversary of Botanical Brouhaha by gifting a seat in her Botanical Couture Workshop to one of our readers! The Botanical Couture Workshop will be held in Francoise’s personal studio (pictured above) in Portland, Oregon on October 13-15, 2014 from 9am-4pm - [Introducing Eco Fresh Bouquet & A Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/introducing-eco-fresh-bouquet-a-giveaway/) - We’re fortunate to have Debbie Demarse, who developed Eco Fresh Bouquet, with us today to introduce her ecologically sound hydration wrap. This product would have saved my design team lots of frustration over the years as we delivered hand-tied bouquets in vases of sloshing water! Here’s Debbie’s story: As Debbie Demarse, former owner of NYC - [Win A Wedding Workshop with Françoise Weeks](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/win-a-wedding-workshop-with-franoise-weeks-giveaway/) - What a great way to start the week! We’re constantly amazed by the generosity and kindness shown to the BB community by our wonderful floral industry friends. Today Françoise Weeks, Woodlands Designer & Botanical Haute Couture Artist, is stopping by with a gift for one very lucky BB reader! Images: (L) Theresa Bear (UR) Rebekah - [Win The New Francoise Weeks Online Course](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/win-the-new-francoise-weeks-online-course/) - Theresa Bear Photography Françoise Weeks is certainly no stranger to Botanical Brouhaha! I love to have her drop by occasionally to update us on her latest projects. I’m sure you’ve seen her textural Woodland and Botanical Couture designs over the years. She has traveled the world extensively to teach and inspire so many fantastic florists. - [How To Make A Floral Fascinator](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-to-make-a-floral-fascinator/) - A Guest Tutorial by Françoise Weeks Small fascinators are a fun alternative to the more traditional flower crowns. Inspired by the piece of jewelry pictured below which was designed by Maria Elena Headpieces as a hairpiece, I tried different ways to create a base for a fascinator, emulating this idea. After experimenting with different types - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 33](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-33/) - image via Posh Floral Designs The Question: What is your policy on posting photos of your weddings on social medium? Do you only post after the Bride has seen everything in person? Do you post before the wedding? Do you ask the Bride her preference as part of your contract? ************************************************************ The Answers: We do - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 57](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-57/) - The Question: I'm noticing a lot of vines and trailing elements in the loose garden-style bouquets that are popular right now. What are your favorite flowers and vines for creating that trailing effect? The Answers: I work with what I grow at my farm so these may not be available from a wholesaler. Maybe a - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 54](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-54/) - The Question: What trends are you seeing in your area regarding bouquet shapes, color palettes and popular flower variety choices? The Answers: Our studio is continuing to do a mix of designs. We have many girls who want loose, loose, loose designs and many of these are asymmetrical and/or cascading. We have also seen a - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 56](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-56/) - The Question: I know how important it is to have professional images in my website portfolio, but I am struggling to get them from the photographers who photograph my weddings. Do you only put professional images on your website? If so, how do you go about getting them and do you pay for them? If - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 62](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-62/) - The Question: I am so tired of using old fashioned boring white cards for the names on sympathy arrangements. Do you have any new and updated ways to feature names? I also hate old fashioned script. Any thoughts on how to update that also? The Answers: Cards for sympathy arrangements in the UK tend to - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 63](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-63-2/) - The Question: What rose varieties do you love including in your design work? The Answers: We use very few roses in our design work at Love 'n Fresh Flowers. In fact, it has sort of become part of our signature look and reputation to not use roses, and we regularly have clients that come in - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 64](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-64/) - The Question: How do you condition the peonies you use in your floral designs? Answers: We have the good fortune of growing all our own peonies so our process is no doubt a bit different than if you are ordering them from a wholesaler. We harvest peonies several times a day while they are in - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 66](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-66/) - The Question: Can you describe your studio/work space? Do you have a cooler? How many employees/designers work in your space? The Answers: My studio is currently on the side of my house overlooking trees. Having my garden at hand when designing is essential. I can cut when I need to, I can get into a - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 67](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-67/) - The Question: Every time I use hydrangeas, it's a battle to keep them from wilting! How do you condition your hydrangeas? Do you have problems with them wilting during an event? Holly Heider Chapple Flowers | Genevieve Leiper Photography The Answers: I must say I never find hydrangeas too difficult to work with. I ‘feel’ - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 69](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-69/) - The Question: Which flowers are your favorites for designing a wedding in the month of January? Floresie | Trentième Etage Photography The Answers: Even if I am deeply missing garden roses in January, I must admit I love all the winter flowers: helleborus, ranunculus, tulips (especially double ones! see picture above), anemones... One thing I - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 93](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-93/) - Question: What are your favorite berry varieties for using in bouquets? How do you insert them into the bouquet if the stems are short? Any special care instructions? Privet Berries | Clare Day Flowers Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 93 Answers: Privet berry is a favorite in winter as it works so well with evergreen and - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 70](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-70/) - Question: Just wondering which color palette happens to be your favorite? After designing so many weddings and events according to the wishes of your clients, what palette would you choose for your own event or a party in your own home? The Answers: I think mine would have to be the pale nude tones mixed - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 72](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-72/) - Question: How do you keep dahlias from wilting in your bouquets? Answers: Crowning Glory! Sometimes I feel like I should start a CG Anonymous group, because I'm addicted to that stuff. During hot summer days it’s the best bet for helping the dahlias to seal in their moisture. Not only do I spray the front - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 74](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-74/) - Question: I love all the new compote designs I am seeing. What do you use as a base in your compote designs...foam, tape, chicken wire? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 74 Answers: I'm a chicken wire and tape compote designer. I'm not a fan of frogs, they are expensive and I don't like how it feels - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 76](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-76/) - Question: Do you use locally grown flowers in your designs? If so, how do you go about sourcing them? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 76 Answers: Yes! Well, I am certainly lucky in that not only do I source as much as I can from my large cutting garden, but I also have a very skilled - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 75](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-75/) - Question: What do you like to use for the base for your garlands? How do you add flowers? (water picks, foam?) Do you do anything special to increase the longevity of your garlands? Are there different methods of attachment that you use for different venues (because of venue regulations)? How long does it normally take - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 78](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-78/) - Question: I love the bouquet trend of long streamers of mixed trims & ribbons! I see many different ways to do this and wonder if some of the expert panel folks could share the specific types of ribbons or trims they like to use & why, how they select the color/length of ribbon and the - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 80](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-80/) - Question: I'm looking for a tough long-lasting greenery to use for a mantel, several table runners and a floral arch in a wedding reception area. Do you have any suggestions? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 80 Answers: Here in the Pacific Northwest, salal is amazing. Elsewhere, consider ivy, olive, gravellia, beech foliage, plumosa fern, eucalyptus and - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 81](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-81/) - Question: Now with eight years of floral experience, I am becoming increasingly interested in becoming a farmer-florist. As much as I love my job and designing events and being in an urban environment, I am craving something a little more earthen and natural. I feel there is so much waste in this industry, and I - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 82](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-82/) - Question: What advice can you share on the mechanics behind floral tie backs? Fleurie Flower Studio Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 82 Answers: We treat floral tie-backs like giant wrist corsages and use a lot of glue! :-) Jennie Love (Love ‘n Fresh Flowers) _____________________________________________________________________ There are many ways to do this best. When using many - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 84](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-84/) - Question: I use garden roses in my designs and love them! Recently, I heard about garden spray roses. Have you used them? If so, what are your favorite varieties? ‘Madame Butterfly’ Garden Spray Rose | Seattle Wholesale Grower’s Market Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 84 Answers: ‘Marie Romantica’ | Passionflower | Lians Jadan Photography I adore - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 85](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-85/) - Question: What are your favorite varieties of zinnias for using in wedding work? How do you condition them before using them in bouquets, centerpieces, etc.? Any special instructions for use? Holly Chapple Flowers | Abby Jiu Photography Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 85 Answers: Holly Chapple Flowers | Abby Jiu Photography | ‘Queen Red Lime’ zinnia - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 86](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-86/) - Question: Wondering if you can share any tips on building a sturdy flower wall? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 86 Answers: I have never built a complete wall as this is not something people are much into in France, but I do massive arches just like the one in the picture above and I guess I - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 87](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-87/) - Question: Do you forage material for your arrangements? If so, do you use foraged material in wedding work? Where do you gather it? How do you make sure it lasts through an event without wilting? I often see foraged material in arrangements on Instagram that appears to have begun wilting during the event and would - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 89](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-89/) - Question: What type of vehicle do you use for delivering to weddings & events? Any helpful advice on make, model, gas mileage, ease of loading, logo/wrap, etc. would be greatly appreciated! Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 89 Answers: For several years I used an import Mitsubishi van. I now use a smaller Nissan Cargo van or - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 92](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-92/) - Question: I like the look of celosia but struggle with its placement in my designs. I would love to use it, but it always seems to call attention to itself rather than blending into the overall look. Would it be possible to see some of the designs the BB Expert Panel members have created using - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 103](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-103/) - Question: What is your favorite color palette for autumn weddings? I feel like my brides are stuck in a rut! Love ‘n Fresh Flowers Answers: My favorite autumn color palette to propose is "jewel tones" and ask the couple to let me take it from there. This palette almost always starts with a foundation of - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 91](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-91/) - Question: Can you give us some advice on marketing a floral design business? What have you found most helpful? What are your thoughts on marketing locally vs. nationally? Paying for marketing vs. bartering for exposure? Which marketing strategies have turned into actual sales for you? Do national publication features contribute to sales or mostly help - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 96](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-96/) - Question: Have you ever attached flowers to a vehicle (car, boat, motorcycle,etc.)? If so, how did you attach them? Design by Hitomi Gilliam AIFD Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 96 Answers: Yes, I have... Well there is not one single recipe here, it really depends on the vehicle type and how long the flowers are supposed - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 100](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-100/) - The Question: Do you have a favorite flower farm in your area? What makes them special? My husband and I are dreaming of starting a small flower farm and would love to know what florists are looking for and find most valuable in a farmer/florist relationship. Love ‘n Fresh Flowers Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 100 - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 102](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-102/) - Question: My boutonnieres always seem a little top heavy and tend to shift once pinned. I hate seeing that in the pictures! How do you secure your boutonnieres? Do you have any suggestions for making sure they lay correctly and stay in place throughout the event? Jo Flowers | Taylor & Porter Botanical Brouhaha Expert - [Dropping By The Brouhaha: Olivier Giugni](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/dropping-by-the-brouhaha-olivier-giugni/) - What an honor it is to have Olivier Giugni of L’Olivier Floral Atelier stopping by for a visit today! With an avant-garde artistic vision, incomparable beauty and relentless attention to detail, Olivier has worked to establish the L’Olivier brand as the 'Haute Couture' of floral creation. One-of-a-kind arrangements from L’Olivier adorn the homes and work - [Working Designer Wednesday: Ingredients Series with Denise Fasanello](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-ingredients-series-with-denise-fasanello/) - I’m so excited to introduce this special series as a part of Working Designer Wednesdays! Periodically, Denise Fasanello of Denise Fasanello Flowers will be joining us to share an original seasonal design from start to finish. Join me in welcoming Denise to the Brouhaha… ________________________________ First off let me start by saying how very thrilled - [Autumn Leaf Cloak By Amanda Randell](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/autumn-leaf-cloak-by-amanda-randell/) - I have quite a treat for you today! British Master Florist Amanda Randell is here to share one of her recent projects with us. When I saw this fabulous foliage cloak, I knew we had to invite Amanda to join us on BB to talk more about the mechanics of the design and her inspiration - [Custom Garlands by Koehler & Dramm](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/custom-garlands-by-koehler-dramm/) - When I hear about a high-quality product that sounds like it could save designers time and headaches, I immediately think of you – the designers who read BB. You all are always on my mind because I know how hard you work! Hoping today’s post will be helpful to some of you. I recently talked - [Letter From A Floral Designer’s Daughter](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/letter-from-a-floral-designers-daughter/) - Today’s post is for all of us. For the times we wonder if finding a healthy balance between family and business ownership is possible…or even worth trying. And the times we wonder how our children will feel as adults when they recall their childhood. For all the nights we lay awake wondering if they will - [Studio Tour: Botanique](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/studio-tour-botanique/) - Recently, I received an email from Kelly of Botanique that began: “A looooong time ago, back when my studio was just a dream, I posed a question to the Expert Discussion Panel about what to include in a studio build out/advice about a studio build out. It was so helpful!!” Kelly went on to tell - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 71](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-71/) - The Question: Do you have a garden space at your home? At your studio? Can you describe it? Do you grow cut flowers for your business? How do you find the time to work in the garden while running your business? The Answers: Yes, I do have a garden space which is in fact my - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 73](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-73/) - The Question: What are your favorite sources for containers? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 73 Answers: Of course all the normal places – FSS (Floral Supply Syndicate), Accent Decor, Jamali Garden, etc. Also, I like to scour the antique stores and thrift stores, I'll buy some old stuff and paint it to the color that I - [Flower School Glasgow: Interview & Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flower-school-glasgow-interview-giveaway/) - Today, we're delighted to introduce you to Nick Priestly, one of our Expert Panel members and Principal Tutor at Flower School Glasgow as well as Managing Director of weddings and events florist Mood Flowers. Nick kindly sat down with us to talk about Flower School Glasgow and his vision for the future. And he presented - [BB+ Episode 7: Alison Ellis on Social Media Mindset](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-7-alison-ellis-on-social-media-mindset/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Alison Ellis | Real Flower Business TOPIC: Social Media Posts Alison Ellis of Real Flower Business surprised me when we sat down for a visit. Instead of me asking her a question, she turned the tables and asked me a question she'd received - [BB Podcast Episode 89: Twyla Reimer (Pt.2)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-89-twyla-reimer-pt-2/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Feather & Twine Photography Today we’re continuing our conversation with Twyla Reimer (center above), owner of Remi + Gold in Austin, Texas. We were nowhere near done asking questions when our last conversation with Twyla concluded, so we asked her to come back and tell us more! We hope - [Do You Have a Marketing Strategy?](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/do-you-have-a-marketing-strategy/) - Wondering if either of these scenarios sound familiar? We've heard them both repeated over the years in the BB community. You dream of signing contracts with clients who are excited to work with you —in fact, they've sought you out for your unique aesthetic and asked you to 'do your thing' without a million constraints. - [Introducing Big Floral Installations Magic](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/introducing-big-floral-installations-magic/) - Every week we receive questions at Botanical Brouhaha from floral designers asking for pointers on building floral installations. Finding inspiration and dreaming up a gorgeous installation is just the beginning. Figuring out how to bring the vision to life with solid mechanics is another story, but it's the cornerstone to success. When we learned that - [BB Podcast Episode 88: Twyla Reimer](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-88-twyla-reimer/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Feather & Twine Photography Today we’re visiting with Twyla Reimer, owner of Remi + Gold in Austin, Texas. From a slight obsession with TLC wedding shows to working behind the scenes on events along the Las Vegas strip, flowering in California, and opening a business in Texas, you'll want - [BB Podcast Episode 11: Maxine Owens](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-11-maxine-owens/) - "You're only as good as your last event." -Maxine Owens Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Maxine Owens, owner of Max Owens Design (formerly The Southern Table) in Dallas, Texas to discuss: how her background in retail and science prepared her for opening a flower business - [BB Podcast Episode 67: Steven Dyme](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-67-steven-dyme-flowers-for-dreams/) - "We use beautiful local bouquets to advance causes of charity and justice in the communities we serve." -Steven Dyme | Co-Founder of Flowers for Dreams Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Steven Dyme, co-founder of Flowers for Dreams (with locations in Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee) to discuss: the Flower for Dreams - [BB Podcast Episode 87: Hannah Bonham Blackwell](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-87-hannah-bonham-blackwell/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Hannah Bonham Blackwell of Southside Blooms in the Englewood community of Chicago, Illinois. Southside Blooms, which is a project of Chicago Eco House (a 501c3 nonprofit with a mission of using sustainability to alleviate poverty), is a farm-to-vase florist providing unique and fashion-forward arrangements, while - [BB+ Episode 19: Corrine Heck + Parie Donaldson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-19-corrine-heck-parie-donaldson/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUESTS: Corrine Heck (CEO) + Parie Donaldson (Certified Design Associate) Details Flowers Software | IG: @detailsflowers TOPIC: Do More and Earn More with the Help of Details Flowers Software Details Flowers Software is a platform specifically designed to help florists and designers. The app streamlines proposals, ensures profitability - [BB Podcast Episode 86: Paulina Nieliwocki](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-86-paulina-nieliwocki/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Paulina Nieliwocki, owner of Blue Jasmine Floral in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. Paulina was a high school language arts teacher and translator looking for a new adventure that challenged her while still feeding her creative soul. Remembering her love of flowers as a young girl, - [BB+ Episode 18: LuAnn Dickson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-18-luann-dickson/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: LuAnn Dickson | EveryStem | IG: @everystem_ TOPIC: Pricing & Ordering Flowers for Profitability LuAnn Dickson was the owner and lead designer of Verbena Floral Design in Austin, TX from 2006 to 2018 before she ventured on to become a freelance floral designer and tech entrepreneur who - [3 Tools We Use To Stay Organized](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/3-tools-we-use-to-stay-organized/) - As Botanical Brouhaha continues to grow and evolve, it's become increasingly important to find tools to keep us organized and working efficiently. Of course, we utilize many platforms and programs to run our businesses, but we don't want to overwhelm you with all of them at once. So, today we thought we'd share 3 tools - [BB+ Episode 17: Julie Tobi](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-17-julie-tobi/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Photo courtesy of Cat Carty Buswell TODAY’S GUEST: Julie Tobi | J Eliza Creative | IG: @jelizacreative TOPIC: Building a Flower Business You Enjoy Julie is a career and life coach for creative entrepreneurs and deep feeling souls, with a focus on intuition and embodiment. In other words, she - [BB Podcast Episode 83: Kelly Shore](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-83-kelly-shore/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Kelly Shore, owner of Petals by the Shore and The Floral Source in Damascus, Maryland. Kelly is a dedicated advocate for American grown flowers. Join us as we talk about: why she set and later raised a minimum spend for her wedding/event clients the importance - [BB+ Episode 16: Deanna Kitchen](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-16-deanna-kitchen/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Deanna Kitchen TOPIC: Growing Kindness Project The Growing Kindness Project started when Deanna Kitchen, an aspiring flower farmer, accidentally planted more dahlias than she could market. Together with her family, she started delivering flowers throughout her community, sharing flowers at bus stops, doctors offices, and retirement homes. - [BB Podcast Episode 81: Alyssa Lytle](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-81-alyssa-lytle/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Alyssa Lytle in her Portland, OR studio | Alixann Loosle Photography Today we’re visiting with Alyssa Lytle, owner of Color Theory Design Co. located in the Portland, Oregon. Join us as we talk about: finding the courage to veer off the obvious and accepted paths to pursue personal interests - [BB Podcast Episode 80: Lauren Palmer + Leah Palmer](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-80-lauren-palmer-leah-palmer/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Lauren Palmer & Leah Palmer, owners of The Wild Mother located in the Arts District, Downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on Kickapoo, Osage, Wichita, & Comanche land. We're grateful for the opportunity to continue the conversation we began in Episode 70. Today we're digging a little deeper - [Flowered Fellas](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flowered-fellas/) - We're excited to introduce you to the work of Jappalin Manning, owner of FlowerTalk in Perth, Western Australia and photographer Natalija Brunovs, owner of We Are All Stardust. As you know, we talk often at Botanical Brouhaha about the importance of Flowering with Purpose. So, when Jappalin shared the images and stories behind the flowered - [BB Podcast Episode 78: Joey Azout](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-78-joey-azout/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Jose 'Joey' Azout | Image courtesy of uBloom Today we’re visiting with Joey Azout of Alexandra Farms (Bogotá, Colombia) to chat about: how he managed to start a successful garden rose farm why he chose to grow garden roses in spite of the challenges the two biggest challenges he experiences - [BB Podcast Episode 61: Kate Woodley](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-61-kate-woodley-two-wild-hands/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Kate Woodley, owner of Two Wild Hands located in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia to discuss: her transition from interior design to floral design the significance of having her own studio space the teaching opportunity that helped her gain momentum early - [BB Podcast Episode 76: LaParis Phillips](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-76-laparis-phillips/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify LaParis Phillips | Brian W. Fraser Photography | for Madewell Today we’re visiting with LaParis Phillips, owner of Brooklyn Blooms in Brooklyn, New York, to chat about: her early days learning floristry in a Missouri flower shop following her dream of living in NYC marrying her love of flowers - [Sustainable Floral Design Techniques w/ Joseph Massie](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/sustainable-floral-design-techniques-w-joseph-massie/) - We're honored to welcome our friend Joseph Massie to the BB Blog today as he shares a design tutorial + some exciting news from his studio! Joe is passionate about passing on his floral design expertise to designers of all skill levels, so let's get busy learning from a 5-time RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold - [BB Podcast Episode 75: Akiko Kovacs](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-75-akiko-kovacs/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Akiko Kovacs | Jada Poon Photography Today we’re visiting with Akiko Kovacs, owner of Floraison in Paris, France, to chat about: the experience that reminded her of the fragility of life and pushed her to follow her dream without delay finding the courage to move to Paris and learn a - [BB Podcast Episode 20: Heather Siu](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-20-heather-siu/) - "The world is my canvas...as long as I have my floral clips, I can work anywhere." -Heather Siu Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Heather Siu | Greg Finck Photography Today we’re sitting down with Heather Siu, owner of Myrtle et Olive and Lark & Ives in Vancouver, British Columbia to discuss: - [BB Podcast Episode 74: Hazel Gardiner](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-74-hazel-gardiner/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Hazel Gardiner | Tia Talula Photography Today we’re visiting with Hazel Gardiner, owner of Hazel Gardiner Design based in Stoke Newington, East London, to chat about: the diagnosis that changed her relationship with nature and propelled her into the floral industry the importance of wellness and mental well-being as a - [BB Podcast Episode 53: Graeme Corbett](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-53-graeme-corbett/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Julian Winslow Photography Today we’re visiting with Graeme Corbett, owner of Bloom & Burn in London to discuss: his transition from a career in TV to the floral design profession why he's felt the freedom to follow the natural flow of his business the logistical - [How I Made It: Washi Tape Vases](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-i-made-it-washi-tape-vases/) - A Floral Design Tutorial by Joseph Massie Photography by Stella Photography Sometimes, I can be rather quite a bore. There's no escaping it; no matter how many shiny new things there might be to play with, and despite our relentless cultural pressure to constantly be pushing forwards, somehow I still end up coming back to - [BB Podcast Episode 73: Rona Wheeldon](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-73-rona-wheeldon/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Rona Wheeldon, founder of UK-based Flowerona, to chat about: the life challenge she says led to her career change into the floral industry dealing with 'comparison syndrome' defining creativity making a living as a blogger (get ready to hustle!) the importance of photography in building a - [BB Podcast Episode 12: Fiona Pickles](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-12-fiona-pickles/) - “It's very much about feeding my soul and making me happy.” –Fiona Pickles Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Fiona Pickles | Belle and Beau Fine Art Photography Today we’re sitting down with Fiona Pickles, owner of Fiona Pickles Wild & Untamed Floral Artistry (formerly Firenza Floral Design) based in West Yorkshire - [High Fashion Photo Shoot: Part 2 (Featured in GQ South Africa)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/high-fashion-photo-shoot-part-2-featured-in-gq-south-africa/) - Earlier this week, we were fortunate to have Andrea Johnson, owner of Andrea Johnson Floral Design, stop by the Botanical Brouhaha Blog to share a bit about the process behind a high fashion photo shoot she dreamed up and collaborated on with photographer Lawrence Cortez. If you missed it, we encourage you to click here - [High Fashion Photo Shoot: Part 1 (Behind The Scenes)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/high-fashion-photo-shoot-part-1-behind-the-scenes/) - A Guest Post by Andrea Johnson | Andrea Johnson Floral Design Like many of us here, I am a floral designer. What few people know is that I am also a runner. I picked up running when I was sixteen and I have been on the move ever since, carrying with me all of - [BB Podcast Episode 71: Bloom Trust Co.](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-71-bloom-trust-co/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Amy McGee | Founder of Botanical Brouhaha & Bloom Trust Co. Today we’re excited to finally unveil Bloom Trust Co., our newest venture launching mid-November and created with your needs and our mission in mind. We've switched it up a bit on the BB Podcast today. You might say - [Tips On Navigating A Styled Shoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tips-on-navigating-a-styled-shoot/) - A Guest Blog Post by Gaye McNair | Tulips and Twigs Two years ago when I started my floral design business, Tulips and Twigs, I realized it was taking me a while to get “out there” and start picking up clients. I decided to stretch into the unknown and put together a photoshoot so I - [BB+ Episode 15: Jessie Chui](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-15-jessie-chui-paper-flowers/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Jessie Chui | Crafted to Bloom TOPIC: Paper Flower Art Jessie Chui, owner of Crafted to Bloom and author of a beautiful new book called Paper Flower Art, joins us on the Botanical Brouhaha podcast to share her passion for paper flowers from the creation of single - [BB Podcast Episode 69: Lauren Anderson + Rachel Bridgwood](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-69-lauren-anderson-rachel-bridgwood/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Lauren (l) and Rachel (r) | Kate Panza Photography Today we’re visiting with Lauren Anderson & Rachel Bridgwood, co-founders of Sweet Root Village in Alexandria, Virginia to discuss: how they built a culture of community within their business their tips for building strong relationships with event and wedding planners - [BB Podcast Episode 18: Jennie Love](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-18-jennie-love/) - "It’s about understanding what you can do well and understanding you shouldn’t do everything." -Jennie Love Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Jennie Love, owner of Love 'n Fresh Flowers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to discuss: the process of finding land to farm custom growing for clients - [How To: Make A Chocolate Cosmos Paper Flower](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-to-make-a-chocolate-cosmos-paper-flower/) - A Guest Tutorial by Jessie Chui of Crafted to Bloom (BB+ Podcast #15 guest - listen here) Don't miss Jessie's downloadable tutorial (below). Jessie Chui in her studio | Image: Amber Ellis of Creating Light Studio There are so many benefits of incorporating paper flowers into your fresh floral bouquets and arrangements. They’re made from - [BB Podcast Episode 26: Suzie Kostick AIFD, CFD, CF, PFCI](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-26-suzie-kostick-aifd-cfd-cf-pfci/) - "If the industry is going to grow, growth is change. Be open to change." -Suzie Kostick AIFD, CFD, CF, PFCI Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Suzie Kostick, a seasoned floral industry educator, freelancer, and consultant living in Rio Rancho, New Mexico to discuss: her multi-faceted career - [BB Podcast Episode 25: Eatherley Schultz](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-25-eatherley-schultz/) - "I take as much pride in the team I've created as I do in my business or any floral design we've ever done." -Eatherley Schultz Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Tom Robison Creative Today we’re sitting down with Eatherley Schultz, owner of Floressence in Brevard, North Carolina to discuss: why - [BB Podcast Episode 66: Lily Roden](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-66-lily-roden/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Lily Roden | image: Mirelle Carmichael Photography Today we’re visiting with Lily Roden, owner of Lily Roden Floral Design in Southern California to discuss: why she turned to flowers in a time of struggle the reason she didn't initially embrace her creative side the story of her family's move - [Planning a Successful Styled Shoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/planning-a-successful-styled-shoot/) - I’ve received inquiry after inquiry lately regarding the logistics of planning a styled photo shoot, so I decided to ask a few industry friends to share their experiences planning successful shoots with us. Meredith Harper Speer of Bristol Lane, Parie Donaldson of Parie Designs and Sherry Donnelly of Gertie Mae’s are the designers who immediately - [BB Podcast Episode 56: Janne Ford](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-56-janne-ford/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Janne Ford, owner of Janne Ford Floral Photography to discuss: her transition from the fashion industry to a niche in floral styling & photography why she felt a natural connection to the Instagram platform the images that helped her Instagram account gain - [BB Podcast Episode 52: Liza Lubell](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-52-liza-lubell/) - "We try to add a thoughtful layer to the post-event hustle." -Liza Lubell | Garbage Goddess + Peartree Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Liza Lubell, owner of Peartree and Garbage Goddess based in the NYC area to discuss: how a gap-year job in a flower shop turned into a 14 year - [BB Podcast Episode 51: Lorna Stuart Trainor](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-51-lorna-stuart-trainor/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Lorna Stuart Trainor, owner of A Room in Bloom located in Athlone, Ireland to discuss: her winding career path from archaeology to floristry how she decided it was time to take a leap and open her own retail flower shop the loneliness - [BB Podcast Episode 50: Rosebie Morton](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-50-rosebie-morton/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Rosebie Morton, founder/owner of The Real Flower Company located in Hampshire, England to discuss: how her perplexity over the lack of scented roses propelled her to find and grow varieties with scent the growth and diversity of her business over the years - [BB Podcast Episode 48: Lindsay Diminick](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-48-lindsay-diminick/) - "Coming back to flowers after cancer had the potential of being too hard. I knew I couldn’t go back to designing alone. I needed colleagues. This is the only way I want to continue in floristy – with a supportive community, sharing, pushing each other to be great, to create art. Perhaps making it easier - [BB Podcast Episode 47: Teresa Sabankaya](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-47-teresa-sabankaya/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Teresa Sabankaya, author of The Posy Book and owner of Bonny Doon Garden Company in Bonny Doon, California to discuss: the 'garden fever' that led her to a career in the floral industry over 20 years ago the struggles that came - [BB Podcast Episode 45: Alicia Schwede](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-45-alicia-schwede/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Alicia Schwede, owner of Bella Fiori and Flirty Fleurs near Seattle, Washington to discuss: her most popular blog posts on Flirty Fleurs how a move affected her business model the flowers she grows in her garden why she thinks Pinterest helped the - [BB Podcast Episode 43: Michelle Hodges](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-43-michelle-hodges/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Image: Gracie Byrd Jones Today we’re visiting with Michelle Hodges, owner of Sprout in Fredericksburg, Texas to discuss: her proposal process for wedding flowers the Sprout Mood Boards her transition into floral design from the teaching profession the progression of her business from flower stand - [BB Podcast Episode 38: Coral Shortt](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-38-coral-shortt/) - "My style evolves as my mechanical knowledge changes." -Coral Shortt | Epanouir Flower Studio Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Debbie Lourens Photography Today we’re visiting Coral Shortt, owner of Epanouir Flower Studio in Cape Town, South Africa to discuss: her introduction to flowers while growing up in a family of - [BB Podcast Episode 36: Brian Watson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-36-brian-watson/) - "I encourage couples to just let the beauty of the beach speak." -Brian Watson | Myrtie Blue Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting Brian Watson (on the right above), co-owner of Myrtie Blue with his husband Gene in Fort Walton Beach, Florida to discuss: the story behind their - [BB Podcast Episode 32: Phil John Perry](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-32-phil-john-perry/) - "I've never struggled with ideas. If anything, I'm plagued by them." -Phil John Perry Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Photo courtesy of Jonathan Boothby Today we’re visiting with Phil John Perry from Manchester, United Kingdom to discuss: his diverse background in visual merchandising, acting, writing, concept creation, and floral design - [BB Podcast Episode 31: Cara Fitch](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-31-cara-fitch/) - "Freelancing helped me build a community of florist friends which is the thing that's most dear to me right now." -Cara Fitch | Trille Floral Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Photo by Brigid Arnott for Home Beautiful Magazine Today we’re sitting down with Cara Fitch, owner of Trille Floral in Sydney, Australia - [BB Podcast Episode 30: Conner Nesbit](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-30-conner-nesbit/) - "Embrace the imperfections of the flowers. Nothing is ever going to be perfect." -Conner Nesbit | Leuca Floral Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Kate Pease Photography Today we’re sitting down with Conner Nesbit, owner of Leuca Floral in Logan, Utah to discuss: the moment of clarity when he knew it was - [BB Podcast Episode 29: Janelle Wylie](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-29-janelle-wylie/) - "I feel like it just fell in my lap. I feel like it just showed up and I either answered the door or I didn't." -Janelle Wylie | Lavenders Flowers & Tono + Co Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Sposto Photography Today we’re sitting down with Janelle Wylie, owner of - [BB Podcast Episode 27: Robbie Honey](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-27-robbie-honey/) - "I started with the blind confidence of youth." -Robbie Honey Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Robbie Honey, an inspiring floral designer, writer, and educator to discuss: how he grew to love the botanical world during his youth in Zimbabwe the various routes he pursued to - [BB Podcast Episode 22: Morgan Anderson, Ph.D.](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-22-morgan-anderson-ph-d/) - "If you are a florist and you've been practicing and you're not a novice anymore, consider yourself an artist." -Morgan Anderson, Ph.D. Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Morgan Anderson, owner of The Flori.Culture in Scottsdale, Arizona to discuss: her research regarding the concept of floral - [BB Podcast Episode 21: Kelly Marie Thompson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-21-kelly-marie-thompson/) - "Part of the reason my team and I always work so well together is because I know I still have a lot of things to learn as well.” -KMT Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Kelly Marie Thompson, owner of Fleur in Chicago, Illinois to discuss: her start as - [BB Podcast Episode 13: Laetitia Mayor](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-13-laetitia-mayor/) - "I love the 'wow' when you're done and you've decorated the place. It's my drug." -Laetitia Mayor Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Laetitia Mayor | Abby Grace Photography Today we’re sitting down with Laetitia Mayor, owner of Florésie based in Blanzy-lès-Fismes in Northern France to discuss: her path from being an engineer - [BB Podcast Episode 40: Lucia Milan](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-40-lucia-milan/) - "I am really trying to touch someone when I'm doing an arrangement. It's not just a little job. I put some soul in it." Lucia Milan | Lucia Milan Flower Studio Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting Lucia Milan, owner of Lucia Milan Flower Studio in São Paulo, Brazil - [Working Designer Wednesday: Ingredients Series with Denise Fasanello](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-ingredients-series-with-denise-fasanello-4/) - Denise Fasanello is back today with a fall arrangement for our Ingredients Series. Enjoy! ___________________________________________ STEP 1 I have a small collection of Transferware jars that I love to work with, especially around the fall and winter holidays. For this arrangement, I created a simple grid using clear floral tape to help my stems stay - [Introducing: Flower Math. The Florist’s Guide to Pricing & Profitability by Alison Ellis](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/introducing-flower-math-the-florists-guide-to-pricing-profitability-by-alison-ellis/) - I’m excited to introduce you to Alison Ellis of Floral Artistry today. Alison is releasing a brand new online course today and I wanted you to be among the first to know about it because I get so many emails asking for advice on pricing. Alison not only walks you through her pricing strategy in - [20 Stunning Compote Designs by Alicia Schwede](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/20-stunning-compote-designs-by-alicia-schwede/) - We’re fortunate to have Alicia Schwede, founder of Flirty Fleurs and owner of Bella Fiori, on the Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel. Alicia’s areas of expertise in the floral industry are many —from social media expert to floral designer to author. But it’s Alicia’s ability to design stunning compote arrangements that keeps me captivated and anxiously - [New Year. New Plans.](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/new-year-new-plans/) - Well…Hello again, friends! Hope you had a wonderful and restful holiday with family and friends. Mine was packed with home cooking, long late-night talks, epic daydreaming, leisurely walks, lazy pajama-clad mornings, reconnecting with friends, and precious time with my husband (of 28 years as of yesterday) & sons. I wouldn’t change a thing. Oh…and then - [Dropping By The Brouhaha: Debra Prinzing](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/dropping-by-the-brouhaha-debra-prinzing/) - What a way to start the new year! We’re fortunate to have Debra Prinzing with us to kick off 2016. Debra is a Seattle-based writer, speaker and leading advocate for American grown flowers. In addition to being the producer of slowflowers.com (an online directory to American flower farms, and florists, shops and studios who source - [And The Winner Is..](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is-5/) - Congratulations, Eden! We look forward to seeing your listing in the Slow Flowers directory. Find the original giveaway post here! - [Eco Fresh Bouquet Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/eco-fresh-bouquet-giveaway/) - I’m excited to have Debbie Demarse , who developed Eco Fresh Bouquet, with us today. So much has happened for her since she visited BB last year to introduce her ecologically sound hydration wrap. Welcome, Debbie… From Debbie: What a year! As you may know, Eco Fresh Bouquet came to fruition because of the needs - [And The Winners Are…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winners-are/) - Thanks to all who entered the Eco Fresh Bouquet giveaway! And a very special thanks to Debbie Demarse for her generosity! Have a great weekend! - [BB Podcast Episode 65: Scott Shepherd](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-65-scott-shepherd/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Scott Shepherd (aka 'Cutflower Scott'), host of The Flower Podcast to discuss: the root of his love of flowers his experience working in a flower wholesale house for over 25 years what prompted him to start a podcast his transition from the wholesale business to - [BB Podcast Episode 64: Laura Langford + Dawson Hamilton](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-64-laura-langford-dawson-hamilton/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Laura Langford and Dawson Hamilton, owners of Roam Flora located in Ottawa, Canada to discuss: the birth and progress of their solar-powered flower farm where they've found the resources they need to build a growing business how their work and educational backgrounds have impacted their - [BB Podcast Episode 62: Mattie Bush](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-62-mattie-bush-flower-truck/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Mattie Bush, owner of Amelia's Flower Truck & Amelia's Flowers located in Nashville, Tennessee to discuss: How she dreamed up and executed the flower truck concept without a background in the floral industry How she scaled her business quickly to include - [BB+ Episode 13: Christine Hoover LPC: Finding Balance on Social Media](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-13-christine-hoover-lpc-finding-balance-on-social-media/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Christine Hoover MA, LPC, NCC With Special Guest: Jaelynn Solomon, Co-Owner of Urban Rubbish Weddings TOPIC: FINDING BALANCE ON SOCIAL MEDIA This interview was fun and informal because I invited Christine and Jaelynn to drop by my house and share their thoughts on a topic that seems - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 79](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-79/) - Question: What are your thoughts on bridal fairs/exhibitions? Are they worth the investment? If so, which aspects would you consider the most important to the potential bride/client? I would like to invest my money wisely if I commit to having a booth space. (ex. How elaborate should the floral display be? What marketing materials should - [Dropping By The Brouhaha: Jessica Bethel–Fine Art Floral Photographer](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/dropping-by-the-brouhaha-jessica-bethelfine-art-floral-photographer/) - We get to meet the most interesting people through our love of flowers! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Jessica Bethel, a Fine Art Floral Photographer from Atlanta, Georgia. Jessica cites the charm of having fresh flowers in the home everyday as the inspiration behind her artistry. Her photos are printed on Hahnemühle Photo - [And The Winner…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-5/) - …of the Jessica Bethel fine art floral photography print is… Ann For US Botanical Brouhaha Readers: If you’d like to purchase a Jessica Bethel print, enter Discount Code: BBFLOWERS to receive 15% off all prints in her Etsy shop (click here to visit the shop). Thank you, Jessica! Find the original giveaway winner post here! - [‘Rosa’ Flower Tunnel Installation by Joseph Massie](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/rosa-flower-tunnel-installation-by-joseph-massie/) - Joseph Massie, five-time RHS Gold Medal Winner, unveiled his spectacular floral installation at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2016 this week, created to celebrate the 90th birthday of, RHS Patron, HM the Queen. Twenty-seven year old Liverpool native Massie lived up to his title of botanical artist by creating a design which includes 5,000 fresh-cut - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 83](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-83/) - Question: Do you have a minimum dollar amount for wedding orders? If so, how did you decide on the minimum amount? How has setting the minimum affected your business? Love ‘n Fresh Flowers Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 83 Answers: Your minimum sets the tone for what kind of business you are setting up. The lower - [BB+ Episode 12: KimBang Nguyen on The Vietnamese Wedding Tradition](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-12-kimbang-nguyen-on-preserving-the-vietnamese-wedding-tradition/) - TODAY’S GUEST: KimBang Nguyen | Dream Floral Art TOPIC: Preserving The Vietnamese Wedding Tradition KimBang loves flowers and she's found a purpose which is currently driving her to impact the wedding industry on a much deeper level than she once envisioned. While consulting with potential wedding clients at her Virginia studio, she began to notice - [Let Culture Blossom: The Vietnamese Wedding Tradition](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/let-culture-blossom-the-vietnamese-wedding-tradition/) - A Call-To-Action To Promote And Preserve the Vietnamese Wedding Tradition Written by KimBang Nguyen | Dream Floral Art As a budding wedding florist in Fairfax, Virginia, I love to execute floral designs for all kinds of weddings. My passion is to translate my clients' vision for their special day into a beautifully decorated wedding. However, - [And the winner is…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is-6-giveaway/) - Congratulations on winning the giveaway for a seat in the Large Structures course at Flower School Glasgow: RHYS SMALL – Oorfleurs If you didn’t win today, but would like to reserve a seat in a future Large Structures course with Nick Priestly at Flower School Glasgow, you’ll have the opportunity on the following dates: Monday - [2017 Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/2017-botanical-brouhaha-expert-panel/) - It is with immense gratitude that I introduce the 2017 Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel! Each member of this panel brings a unique skill set to the table and I know you will benefit from hearing their advice over the course of the year. They serve on the panel for no other reason than to give - [BB Podcast Episode 34: Ashley Fox](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-34-ashley-fox/) - "I love a close community of floral designers and I don't see any other way to survive frankly." -Ashley Fox | Ashley Fox Designs Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting Ashley Fox, owner of Ashley Fox Designs in Woodbury, Minnesota to discuss: how she sets and meets goals knowing - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 90](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-90/) - Clare Day Flowers Question: What computer software applications do the BB Expert Panel members use for their businesses? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 90 Answers: I use spreadsheets (Numbers) for ordering, scheduling and accounting. I use Pinterest as a visual communication tool with my clients, and Pages for my contracts and proposals. I use Workflowy for - [Let Hope Bloom: 100 Wedding Florists Respond To The Covid Pandemic](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/let-hope-bloom-100-wedding-florists-respond-to-the-covid-pandemic/) - By Madeleine Elmer | Fleur de Vie | Houston, Texas Input from florists during Covid: According to a recent online article from House Beautiful magazine, “more than 350,000 weddings were set to take place in the US in March and April [2020].” Most of them were either cancelled, postponed, or reduced in size to intimate - [BB Podcast Episode 9: Nancy Teasley](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-9-nancy-teasley/) - “I love what we do. I’m a total Romantic. I love the ‘love story’ part of it.” Nancy Teasley | Oak and the Owl & Ella Rose Farm Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Sarah Falugo Photography Today we’re sitting down with Nancy Teasley, owner of Oak & the Owl and - [BB Podcast Episode 10: Françoise Weeks](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-10-francoise-weeks/) - “When the desire to succeed becomes greater than the fear to fail, I move forward.” -Françoise Weeks Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Françoise Weeks | Theresa Bear Photography Today we’re sitting down with Françoise Weeks, owner of Françoise Weeks European Floral Design in Portland, Oregon to discuss: her transition from - [BB Podcast Episode 15: Maggie & Mick Bailey](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-15-maggie-mick-bailey/) - "I can guarantee you that if Mick wasn't as supportive as he is and wasn't involved, that I wouldn't still be in business." -Maggie Bailey "I call us accidental entrepreneurs." -Mick Bailey Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Maggie & Mick Bailey | Dana Fernandez Photography Today we’re sitting down with - [BB Podcast Episode 16: Nick Priestly](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-16-nick-priestly/) - "This job has never felt like work." -Nick Priestly Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Nick Priestly, owner of Mood Flowers and Flower School Glasgow, as well as co-owner of MUD Urban Flowers in Glasgow, Scotland to discuss: how he ended up in the flower business - [BB Podcast Episode 17: Christin Geall](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-17-christin-geall/) - "If my work appears innovative, it's because I'm forced into that." -Christin Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Christin Geall, owner of Cultivated in Victoria, Canada to discuss: her years as a homesteader growing/selling flowers and salad her multi-faceted business model her thoughts on flower photography the - [BB Podcast Episode 19: Emily Avenson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-19-emily-avenson/) - "Even if you don’t speak the same language, you can communicate through flowers." - Emily A. Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Taylor & Porter Photographs Today we’re sitting down with Emily Avenson, owner of Fleuropean in Aubel, Belgium to discuss: what inspired her to begin growing flowers some of her favorite varieties to grow - [BB Podcast Episode 23: Max Gill](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-23-max-gill/) - "[The] boundaries between what it is we do and what it is we actually are...they get blurred for all of us." -Max Gill Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Max, owner of Max Gill Design in Berkley, California to discuss: how he "stumbled into flowers" the - [BB Podcast Episode 24: Meg Connelly](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-24-meg-connelly/) - "Something I've always done my whole life is go with the harder option." -Meg Connelly Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re sitting down with Meg Connelly, owner of Meg Catherine Flowers in Indianapolis, Indiana to discuss: how her music & art background led her to floral design the benefits of working - [BB Podcast Bonus Episode: Hitomi Gilliam AIFD + Holly Chapple (LIVE)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-bonus-episode-hitomi-gilliam-aifd-holly-chapple-live/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify We were thrilled to have Hitomi Gilliam and Holly Chapple as guests for the first-ever live taping of the BB Podcast during the BB Garden Style Workshop on November 5, 2018. The interview was structured as a Q&A with the audience of attendees at the - [BB Podcast Episode 33: Teresa Fung](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-33-teresa-fung/) - "Part of my dream for these girls that come through my studio is to actually help them dream bigger." -Teresa Fung | Mimosa Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Image courtesy of Dorothy Greco Today we’re visiting Teresa Fung, owner of Mimosa in Boston, Massachusetts to discuss: how she pulled from her - [BB Podcast Episode 39: Katie Noonan AIFD](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-39-katie-noonan-aifd/) - "Great things come to you at short notice sometimes." -Katie Noonan AIFD | Noonan's Wine Country Designs Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Ashley Ludaescher Photography Today we’re visiting Katie Noonan AIFD, owner of Noonan's Wine Country Designs in San Luis Obispo, California to discuss: how her parents and their business - [BB Podcast Bonus Episode: Francoise Weeks + Jennifer Ederer (LIVE)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-bonus-episode-francoise-weeks-jennifer-ederer-live/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify We were thrilled to have Francoise Weeks and Jennifer Ederer as guests for the second live taping of the BB Podcast during the BB Garden Style Workshop on April 2, 2019. The interview was structured as a Q&A with the audience of attendees at the end - [BB Podcast Episode 46: Natalie Gill](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-46-natalie-gill/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Natalie Gill, owner of Native Poppy in San Diego & Solana Beach, California to discuss: how she quit her corporate job and jumped into floristry the role her staff has played in her success her philosophy on staff management job descriptions - [BB Podcast Episode 49: Parie Donaldson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-49-parie-donaldson/) - "Embrace your strength and delegate your weakness." - Parie Donaldson | Parie Designs Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Parie Donaldson, owner of Parie Designs (Amarillo, Texas), cancer survivor, and Details Flowers virtual designer to discuss: her transition from a retail shop to an events-only studio how she's dealt - [BB Podcast Episode 54: Gracie Poulson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-54-gracie-poulson/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Gracie Poulson, owner of Grace Rose Farm in Southern California to discuss: expanding from a backyard rose garden to a full-scale farming operation logistics of scaling a business quickly to keep up with demand challenges of shipping a perishable product from a - [BB+ Episode 1: Natalie Gill on Marketing A La Carte Wedding Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-1-natalie-gill-on-marketing-a-la-carte-wedding-flowers/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today's Guest, Natalie Gill: Natalie Gill, owner of Native Poppy | San Diego, CA (2 retail locations: South Park & Solana Beach) Topic: Marketing A La Carte Wedding Flowers Natalie's strategy: Advertise on Google AdWords (Smart Campaign) Engage current clients and they may become a - [BB Podcast Episode 55: Ali Dahlson](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-55-ali-dahlson/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Nicole Clarey Photography Today we’re visiting with Ali Dahlson, Marketing Manager at Mayesh Wholesale to discuss: the rich history of Mayesh Wholesale Florist the opportunity that led her back to the family business from a career in interior architecture how her family has expanded the - [BB+ Episode 2: Christine Hoover LPC on Imposter Syndrome](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-2-christine-hoover-lpc-on-imposter-syndrome/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Christine & Chris Hoover TODAY’S GUEST: Christine Hoover, MA, LPC, NCC | Central Texas TOPIC: Imposter Syndrome What does Imposter Syndrome look like in the floral profession? Wondering what will happen if we can't provide the services our clients need Questioning our worth when pricing - [BB+ Episode 3: Alison Ellis on Rental Pricing & Floral Markups](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-3-alison-ellis-on-rental-pricing-floral-markups/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today's Guest: Alison Ellis, owner of Real Flower Business Topic: Pricing Rentals Alison's Rental Strategy: When renting an item the first time, set the rental fee at the same price you paid for the item. This ensures you break even after one use. Be sure - [BB+ Episode 4: Natalie Gill on Stem Bar Pricing & Delivery Charges](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-4-natalie-gill-on-stem-bar-pricing-flower-delivery-charges/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Natalie Gill, owner of Native Poppy flower delivery | San Diego, CA (2 retail locations: South Park & Solana Beach) TOPIC: Stem Bar Pricing Natalie’s Strategy on Stem Bar Pricing: Use a 4x markup on most flowers (to help absorb cost of product shrinkage - [BB Podcast Episode 60: Jessica Hall + Stephanie Auville](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-60-jessica-hall-stephanie-auville-flower-farm/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify The 'Mother-Daughter Trifecta' (L-R): Jessica Hall, Chris 'Lady Monarch' Auville, Stephanie Auville Today we’re visiting with sisters Jessica Hall & Stephanie Auville, from Harmony Harvest Farm in Weyers Cave, Virginia to discuss: the beach-side conversation that led to the creation of their family-run business - - [BB+ Episode 8: Joseph Massie on Working Through A Pandemic](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-8-joseph-massie-on-working-through-a-pandemic/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST, JOSEPH MASSIE: Joseph Massie | Joseph Massie Flowers + Joseph Massie at the UK School of Floristry TOPIC: Working Through A Pandemic When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down his city, Joseph got to work figuring out how to handle a sudden halt of - [BB+ Episode 9: Maria Maxit on Profitability](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-9-maria-maxit-on-profitability/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST, MARIA MAXIT: Maria Maxit | Maxit Flower Design TOPIC: Profitability Former BB Podcast co-host, Maria Maxit dropped by for a visit recently (via Zoom, of course) and we had fun catching up on what's happened at Maxit Flower Design since she last sat - [BB+ Episode 10: Natalie Gill on Finding Your Mojo](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-10-natalie-gill-on-finding-your-mojo/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST, NATALIE GILL: Natalie Gill, owner of Native Poppy flower delivery | San Diego, CA (2 retail locations: South Park & Solana Beach) TOPIC: Finding Your Mojo A Botanical Brouhaha Podcast listener wrote to us asking for Natalie Gill's advice. The UK designer wrote: "How do - [BB Podcast Episode 63: Rebecca Grace](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-63-rebecca-grace/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Rebecca Grace, owner of Natural Art Flowers in Perth, Western Australia to discuss: The challenges of working in an isolated location Growing a flower business over time Utilizing her studio space with efficiency Handling business during a pandemic Team function on - [BB+ Episode 11: Joseph Massie Opens Online Studio](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-11-joseph-massie-opens-online-studio/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST, JOSEPH MASSIE: Joseph Massie | Joseph Massie Flowers + Joseph Massie at the UK School of Floristry TOPIC: OPENING AN ONLINE STUDIO Today is the day we've anxiously awaited! Joseph Massie, a 5-time Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medalist who is often referred to by the media as - [BB Podcast Episode 58: Beth O'Reilly, AIFD](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-58-beth-oreilly-aifd/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Beth O'Reilly, Director of Education & Merchandise at Greenleaf Wholesale in Houston, Texas to discuss: her career path through the floral designer profession from 'bud vase girl' to accomplished designer the largest (and possibly the most interesting) event she ever produced - [BB+ Episode 5: Christine Hoover, LPC on Handling Anxiety](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-episode-5-christine-hoover-lpc-on-handling-anxiety/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify TODAY’S GUEST: Christine Hoover, MA, LPC, NCC | Central Texas TOPIC: HANDLING ANXIETY Tips for Handling Anxiety & Stress: Create a solid plan for self-care Build your self-care plan into your overall business plan Exercise Nutrition (pay attention to how your body is impacted by different - [BB Podcast Episode 59: Ellen Frost](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-podcast-episode-59-ellen-frost-local-color-flowers/) - Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify Today we’re visiting with Ellen Frost, owner of Local Color Flowers in Baltimore, Maryland to discuss: how she's able to source local flowers for her business year round her unique business model which includes weddings, weekly orders, book clubs, open studio nights, and more the - [And The Winner Is…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is-7/) - Guess who’s headed to the private Portland studio of Francoise Weeks?! You are, Tanya Kratz! Congratulations! - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 94](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-94/) - Question: I'm thinking about rebranding and creating a new website. Did you pay a professional to create your website or did you create it yourself using something like Squarespace or Wix? Do you have any helpful tips based on your experience dealing with your website? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 94 Answers: I use Squarespace for - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 95](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-95/) - The Question: I keep hearing stories of other floral designers receiving low ratings on The Knot, Yelp, etc. for circumstances out of their control or circumstances that have been misconstrued in the review. I've even heard of fellow designers getting a 1-Star rating from people they never worked with. Is this an inevitable part of - [Expert Panel Member: Laetitia Mayor | Florésie](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/expert-panel-member-laetitia-mayor-florsie/) - So happy to introduce you to BB Expert Panel member Laetitia Mayor today! She’s served on the panel since our very first panel discussion on June 20, 2012 – nearly 5 years ago. Laetitia’s floral design business, named "Florésie" which is a French contraction for "fleurs" (flowers) and "poésie" (poetry), is located in the Champagne - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 97](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-97/) - The Question: How did you know when it was time to hire your first employee? What were your first employee's title and responsibilities? Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 97 Answers: Although I know taking the leap of faith and hiring an employee would definitely propel my growth forward, I haven’t taken this step yet. For the - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 98](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-98/) - Question: Have you ever had a bride bring a proposal from another floral designer to a consultation appointment with you? How did you handle it? Floresie | Say Cheeeese Photography Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 98 Answers: I’ve never had someone bring another proposal to a consult. I suppose if I were to encounter this situation… - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 99](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-99/) - The Question: Do you have friendships with other floral designers in your area? How did you meet them and form the friendships? I find it hard to connect with other designers in town. It seems like they only see me as a competitor and feel threatened by any interaction with other designers. It's a lonely - [Creative Designs from The Whidbey Flower Workshop](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/creative-designs-from-the-whidbey-flower-workshop/) - Ribbon: Honey Silks & Co | Graphics: Grey & Cake Tobey Nelson, owner of Tobey Nelson Events + Design, dreamed up a workshop opportunity for floral professionals wanting to expand their creative horizons and update their mechanics (while learning how to avoid floral foam in their practices). The result was a spectacular workshop held this - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 101](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-101/) - The Question: I have the hardest time being present with my friends and family without getting interrupted by business calls and emails. I'm afraid to turn my phone off and take a chance on missing an important call, text or email from a current or potential client, but I know it annoys my family. I - [And The Winner Is…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is-8-botanical-brouhaha-giveaway/) - Congratulations on winning the Françoise Weeks European Floral Course: Botanical Couture Jewelry (Full Course)! Amy Berry-Crowe If you didn’t win this time, but you would love to learn from Francoise in the comfort of your own studio or home, check out the online courses she offers. You can also join her mailing list for her - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 105](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-105/) - Question: Looking for wisdom as I enter the floral industry. I'm an enthusiastic newbie! Wondering if the BB Panel could tell me: What is the single most helpful piece of advice you've received during your career and where did it come from? How did it impact your business? Fleuropean Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 105: The - [Fleur de Vie: Houston Floral First Responders](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/fleur-de-vie-houston-floral-first-responders/) - What happens when the unexpected happens on a wedding day? Madeleine Elmer, owner of Fleur De Vie in Houston, Texas had to make that decision when Hurricane Harvey threatened to rob a couple of her brides of the wedding day they had envisioned. Madeleine chose to carry on as planned and ensure the brides had - [A Visit to Dutch Flower Line NYC](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/a-visit-to-dutch-flower-line-nyc/) - About this time every year, I get the itch to clean up our computer files and get organized for the coming year. While going through some old files yesterday, I ran across these images from a quick trip through Dutch Flower Line NYC. I’m posting a few of the images today for those who have never - [The Secret Garden](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-secret-garden/) - A Creative Retreat in the French Countryside Today, we're thrilled to give you a glimpse inside a creative retreat co-hosted by BB Expert Panel member Laetitia Mayor and photographer Chikae O.H. Watch for BB Podcast Episode 13 coming February 5th if you want to hear Laetitia's story - including more about her personal cutting garden and The - [Flowering On A Canadian Family Homestead](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flowering-canadian-family-homestead-chelsa-larson/) - Today, I want to introduce you to floral designer Chelsa Larson, owner of Funky Petals Floral Studio in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. She, along with several local vendors, dreamed up and executed this photo shoot based on the concept of structural floral elements, designed around the natural elements of a family homestead near Barons and Keho - [Mornings With Maggie: Working As a Team](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mornings-maggie-working-team/) - If you happened to listen to the latest Botanical Brouhaha podcast episode, you’ll already know a little of our backstory. I, Maggie Bailey, started Bramble & Bee in January of 2014 as a way to try and contribute to our family income while also gaining a little more flexibility in my schedule to dedicate to - [BB Expert Panel: Budget-Friendly Weddings](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/bb-expert-panel-budget-friendly-wedding-packages-signature-style/) - Question: Over the years I've tried to find a way to cater to brides who cannot meet my minimum. I only take a limited number of events each season but would like to fill in some of my open weekends with some smaller events that don't require the amount of attention, prep, setup, installation work, - [Mornings With Maggie: Building A Wedding Business](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mornings-maggie-building-wedding-business/) - As a relative newcomer to the business (4 years in weddings and 1.5 in retail), I don’t have the wisdom of some of you who’ve been in the business for 10, 20, even 30 years. But as a designer who’s grown a business from 15 weddings in year one to 90 in year four, I - [Mornings With Maggie: Building a Retail Business](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mornings-maggie-building-retail-business/) - There are a lot of sources these days reporting that the brick & mortar flower shop is a thing of the past, and it isn’t uncommon to see retail florists trading in their keys and daily deliveries for studio or home based wedding and event design businesses. The cost on staff and overhead alone can - [New York Botanical Garden Summer Intensives](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/new-york-botanical-garden-summer-intensives/) - We're thrilled to introduce you to the New York Botanical Garden Adult Education Program today - and, more specifically, their accelerated Summer Intensives. If you're looking for a career change or just want to further your education in Landscape Design, Gardening or Floral Design, you'll want to check out the possibilities at NYBG. And don't - [The Winner Is...](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-winner-is-giveaway/) - Guess who was the giveaway winner for 2 All Garden Pass tickets for the New York Botanical Garden? Meagan Cooley Ember Floral Co. Congratulations, Meagan! Don't forget to check out the NYBG Summer Intensives if you're looking for a great summer learning opportunity! - [Mayesh Design Star Workshop | Charleston](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mayesh-design-star-workshop-charleston/) - We’re excited to share a bit about the latest stop in the Mayesh Design Star Workshop Series today. Here’s a peek inside the MDS Workshop in Charleston… The second workshop of the 2018 Mayesh Design Star workshop series brought Kaylee Young and the Mayesh team to Charleston, NC in late May. The workshop was held at the Cedar Room, a - [Mayesh Design Star Workshop | Miami](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mayesh-design-star-workshop-miami/) - We're excited to introduce you to the Mayesh Design Star Workshop Series today. In its second year, the workshop series has just a few stops left in 2018 and you may want to catch one before the end of the tour! Here's a peek inside the first 2018 MDS Workshop stop in Miami... The second year - [Master Your Pricing: Pricing On The Spot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/master-pricing-pricing-spot/) - Today we're bringing you the first of a four part series, Master Your Pricing, and we're thrilled to introduce you to Alison Ellis, owner of Floral Artistry and Real Flower Business! Alison will be joining is for the next 4 Wednesdays to share some of her tips on pricing for floral designers. Please feel free - [Master Your Pricing: Set A Minimum](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/master-pricing-set-minimum/) - Today, we're welcoming back our friend Alison Ellis, owner of Floral Artistry and Real Flower Business, for Part 2 of a 4-Part Series called Master Your Pricing. Please feel free to leave comments and questions for Alison at the end of the post! From Alison: In business we reach milestones from time to time. Finding - [Master Your Pricing: Stay In The Driver's Seat](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/master-pricing-stay-drivers-seat/) - Today, we’re welcoming back our friend Alison Ellis, owner of Floral Artistry and Real Flower Business, for Part 3 of a 4-Part Series called Master Your Pricing. Please feel free to leave comments and questions for Alison at the end of the post! Have you ever had a customer tell you how much you should charge? Maybe you’ve - [Master Your Pricing: Give Yourself A Raise](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/master-pricing-give-raise/) - Today, we’re bringing you the final post in a 4-Part Series called Master Your Pricing by Alison Ellis, owner of Floral Artistry and Real Flower Business. Please feel free to leave comments and questions for Alison at the end of the post! Thank you, Alison, for taking the time to share your expertise with the BB Community. We - [Mayesh Design Star Workshop | Seattle](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mayesh-design-star-workshop-seattle/) - We’re excited to share a bit about the latest stop in the Mayesh Design Star Workshop Series today. Here’s a peek inside the MDS Workshop in Seattle. Only one more stop in 2018! Salt Lake City, they're coming to you next. Kaylee Young and the Mayesh team held their first west coast workshop of the 2018 MDS Tour this past - [Mayesh Design Star Workshop | Santa Barbara](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mayesh-design-star-workshop-santa-barbara/) - Have you heard about the Mayesh Design Star Workshop Series ? We're taking a peek inside the latest MDS Workshop which was held in Santa Barbara, California. Only one more stop on the 2018 tour! Salt Lake City, they’re coming to you next on November 12-13. For their fourth stop of the 2018 Mayesh Design Star workshop - [Mayesh Design Star Workshop | Salt Lake City](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/mayesh-design-star-workshop-salt-lake-city/) - What a pleasure it's been for us to share the beautiful floral installations, bouquets, and tablescapes from the 2018 Mayesh Design Star Workshop series. From the outstanding Mayesh blooms to the stunning light-filled venues and beautiful photography, each workshop provided us with inspiration we were happy to pass on to our Botanical Brouhaha audience. And - [Flowers In The Rockies](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flowers-in-the-rockies/) - We've heard from many Canada-based designers about the difficulties and expense of traveling to the floral design workshops we often mention in the US and elsewhere. So, we have a workshop opportunity to share with all BB readers, but especially our friends in Canada. Flowers in the Rockies is coming up April 28 - May 1, - [New York Botanical Garden Summer Intensives + Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/new-york-botanical-garden-summer-intensives-giveaway/) - We’re thrilled to introduce you to the New York Botanical Garden Adult Education Program today – and, more specifically, their accelerated Summer Intensives. If you’re looking for a career change or just want to further your education in Landscape Design, Gardening, or Floral Design, you’ll want to check out the possibilities at NYBG. And don’t - [Behind The Scenes: Bridal Photo Shoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/behind-the-scenes-bridal-photo-shoot/) - In an effort to "keep it real" here on Botanical Brouhaha for the sake of all the fine working floral and event designers who look to us for practical information, we've decided to begin a new series of blog posts revealing a behind-the-scene glimpse into a few working-designer scenarios (since you asked!). Today we're going - [Putnam & Putnam Receive Texas-Sized Welcome at Mayesh Houston](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/putnam-putnam-receive-texas-sized-welcome-at-mayesh-houston/) - The Botanical Brouhaha Street Team, as we like to call ourselves, recently hit the road to Houston to join fellow Texans in welcoming Darroch and Michael Putnam of NYC-based Putnam & Putnam to our area. The event, hosted by Mayesh Houston, Allied Florists of Houston, and Fleur de Vie, reflected the hard work of the evening's hosts - [CoolBot PRO Giveaway](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/coolbot-pro-giveaway/) - **UPDATE: We have a winner! Congratulations to Reagan Johnson, owner of Copper + Bloom (Phoenix, Arizona) on winning a CoolBot Pro! Hope it's helpful in that AZ heat. If you didn't win, but are still thinking of purchasing a CoolBot or CoolBot Pro, click here to receive $20 off your purchase as a way for - [COVID-19 Updates + Resources](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/covid-19-updates-resources/) - Updated: 5/3/2020 CDC Guidelines: Situation Summary Mass Gatherings and Community Events (including weddings) The President's Coronavirus Guidelines for America (as of 3/16/2020 - includes: avoid social gatherings of more than 10) For Businesses and Employers For Your Home Other COVID-19 Information resources: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information Center Podcast Episodes: The Small Business Stimulus Package, Simplified: - [Creating A High Impact-Low Cost Floral Photoshoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/creating-a-high-impact-low-cost-floral-photoshoot/) - Dreaming of a way to create a floral photoshoot without breaking the bank? Heidi Inabinet, owner of On a Limb in Charleston, South Carolina is a master at dreaming up concepts using stems headed for the compost bin to create an impact in her community while indulging her artistic gifts and gaining professional photos for - [For The Day We Gather Again: A Contingency Plan](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/for-the-day-we-gather-again-a-contingency-plan/) - Written by Lindsay Diminick, owner of Yellow Twist Floral Design “Everything we do before a pandemic will seem alarmist. Everything we do after a pandemic will seem inadequate. This is the dilemma we face, but it should not stop us from doing what we can to prepare.” - - Michael O. Leavitt, 2007 No one - [Couples Speak On Choosing A Wedding Florist](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/couples-speak-on-choosing-a-wedding-florist/) - A while back, I was talking with Maggie Bailey (my Botanical Brouhaha Podcast Co-Host and owner of Bramble & Bee) about how couples choose floral designers for their weddings. We wondered if they notice or care about some of the aspects of business so many of us pour time, money, and energy into each week. - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 68](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-68/) - Question: What services does your studio provide? Which services do you find most profitable? Least profitable? Answers: I am active on three fields: wedding, editorial and teaching. All of them are really different in terms of time / energy and profit. I love them all, and they complement each other well. In terms of wedding, - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 65](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-65/) - The Question: How do you balance your work as a floral designer/business owner with your personal/family life? Answers: Boy, did I ever struggle with balance in my life for the first five years of being in this business. I was raised by workaholic farmers and started working at the tender age of 5 on our - [Working Designer Wednesday: Ingredients Series with Denise Fasanello](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-ingredients-series-with-denise-fasanello-3/) - As we continue the Ingredients Series with Denise Fasanello of Denise Fasanello Flowers, I want to take a minute to thank her for her hard work on this series! I get so excited when I see her name in my inbox and I realize she’s ready to share another amazing ‘How-To’ with us. I wish - [Working Designer Wednesday: Ingredients Series with Denise Fasanello](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-ingredients-series-with-denise-fasanello-2/) - Today we’re continuing the Ingredients Series with Denise Fasanello of Denise Fasanello Flowers and I have a feeling you’re going to love what she has in store for us! Welcome back Denise… _____________________________________ I collect vintage Haeger and McCoy pottery, mostly in shades of green. I’ve been wanting to design something loose and textural for - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 61](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-61/) - The Question: I am wondering how you make money off vase rentals? I have heard that some companies just take a deposit check for the cost of the vase and then return the check once the vases are returned. I’ve also heard that some companies charge a fee plus a deposit. The fee is the - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 60](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-60/) - The Question: Can you discuss the issue of underbidding? I have some local designers that have admitted to underbidding to get clients. Hoping to help educate them about the disasters of this habit. The Answers: Underbidding is a very broad topic, and I refuse to do it. I believe strongly that if one wants to - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 59](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-59/) - The Question: What do you use to carry all your essentials around during the day of an event? Apron? Dress with pockets? And what brand is your favorite? I have such a hard time carrying around all the goodies and was just curious to see if there are any clever ways and if there are - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 58](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-58/) - The Question: I'm new to the industry and would one day love to make floral design my full-time career. I have 4 weddings under my belt as well as a baby shower and a couple of random events. I'd like to start my own business but I am at an utter loss as to where - [The Winners…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-winners/) - …of a box of Eco Fresh Bouquet wraps… Congratulations! Each of you will be receiving an email shortly to get your shipping address. A special thanks to Debbie Demarse, founder of Eco Fresh Bouquet, for treating the Botanical Brouhaha community with such generosity! A special offer for the BB readers who didn’t win: Place an - [Introducing the 2015 Expert Panel](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/introducing-the-2015-expert-panel/) - Row 1 (l-r): Emelie Ekborg (Svenska Blomsterbloggar | Flora Inspiro), Laetitia Mayor (Floresie), Elisabeth Zemetis (Blush) Row 2 (l-r): Nick Priestly (Mood Flowers), Jennie Love (Love ‘n Fresh Flowers), Alicia Schwede (Bella Fiori | Flirty Fleurs) Row 3 (l-r): Francoise Weeks (Francoise Weeks European Floral Design), Holly Chapple (Holly Heider Chapple Flowers), Joanna Rodwell (Jo - [And the winner is…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is-4/) - Please contact me at botanicalbrouhaha@gmail.com for details, Susie! - [The Francoise Weeks Workshop Experience (and a surprise)](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-francoise-weeks-workshop-experience-and-a-surprise/) - Last July, Francoise Weeks and I teamed up to gift a seat in her Portland workshop to one lucky Botanical Brouhaha reader. Jaime won the opportunity to attend the workshop in Francoise’s personal studio and, then, kindly offered to tell us about her experience. Today, we welcome Jaime. Enjoy the post and look for a - [Leftovers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/leftovers-4/) - Always amazed by what incredible designers do with their leftovers… The Blue Carrot Exquisite Designs White Magnolia Designs Meg Catherine Flowers Anastasia Floral Design Bathtub Gardens Alluring Blooms The Blue Carrot - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 55](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-55/) - The Question: I have very small hands and struggle when making bouquets. I find it very frustrating as my fingers just don't reach far enough around the stems and I end up making a mess. Are there any small handed florists on your panel that have some advice for me? I tend to give the - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 53](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-53/) - The Question: What tools do you use to create your proposal template? Have you seen any creative tools used to create them? There are so many elements to take into consideration that it can seem like too much sometimes and other times too little to make sure the client understands your vision. The Answers: I - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 52](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-52/) - The Question: After working as a floral design assistant, I started my own business and I don't know how to make the right connections with event planners or wedding coordinators to start having my own clients. My dream is to do events and weddings but how can I start? I deeply love to design but - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 51](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-51/) - The Question: I have a wedding coming up where I have to fill a huge wrought iron chandelier (similar to the one below) with flowers. How would you go about the mechanics of adding the flowers? The Answers: It looks like you'd need to use floral foam, attached to the chandelier. Clare Day (Clare Day - [Special Opportunity: Designers + Growers + ASCFG](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/a-special-opportunity-designers-growers-ascfg/) - What are you doing on Monday, October 20th? If you don't have any particular plans and are in the mid-Atlantic region, you should definitely consider heading to Wilmington, Delaware! On this particular day, as part of their national conference, the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers (ASCFG) is putting on an amazing program for designers - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 50](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-50/) - Can you believe it? Today is our 50th session with the Expert Panel! I’m so grateful for the generosity of this panel in offering advice, sharing openly & honestly from experience and sacrificing time from their busy schedules to invest in our industry. The Question: How far in advance do you make the bouquets for - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 49](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-49/) - The Question: What day do you receive your flowers from the wholesaler for a Saturday wedding? Where do you store them? Do you store some in the dry packed shipping boxes or do they all go into floral preservative? The Answers: I receive my flowers on Wednesday for a Friday or Saturday event (Thursday for - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 32](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-32/) - image via Peartree The Question: Do you get wedding day/event day jitters? If so, how do you calm them? *************************************************************** The Answers: I get wedding day jitters every single time. I think the day I don't have them is the day I should quit. Years ago when I did my first wedding I thought "Once - [So You Want To Be A Floral Designer…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/so-you-want-to-be-a-floral-designer/) - …but you have no idea what is involved other than playing with beautiful flowers in a hip studio, making people smile and following your passion. I’ve been there. I remember. And then the rest of the story slowly emerges…the not so glamorous work of cleaning buckets, sleep deprivation and frustrating flower orders. If your passion - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 34](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-34/) - image via Springwell Gardens The Question: What marketing strategies have you found to be most successful? As a home-based business without a storefront, I am struggling to find the best ways to reach potential clients- online or print advertising, styled shoots, wedding fairs, networking with other vendors, promotions..... these are all things I have - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 35](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-35/) - image via Giverny Design The Question: I am in a design rut - I am creative to a certain point but am struggling to think "outside the box". I do not want my events to all look the same. Any resources, books, blogs, websites that you enjoy? ************************************************************* The Answers: I have found there's nothing - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 48](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-no-48/) - The Question: I would love to have some of my wedding work published. Do you have any advice on how to go about submitting my work to a blog or magazine? Answers: Each publication has specific submission guidelines that should be followed exactly so as to ensure a greater chance of your work being accepted. - [How I See Things…Now](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/how-i-see-thingsnow/) - I receive emails and phone calls every week from stressed and tired designers. I can feel the anxiety of these designers in my soul because I remember. I remember the sleep deprivation, the last minute wedding shipments of subpar flowers, and the design that just wouldn’t cooperate with my well thought out plan. I remember - [My Little Blogging Space](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/my-little-blogging-space/) - I have to admit that no matter how hard I try to create an office area from which to blog, my favorite spot ends up being on the couch in the middle of the family traffic. I just like being surrounded by my guys. But, I did make an attempt this year to carve out - [2 Special Gifts from Love ‘n Fresh Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/2-special-gifts-from-love-n-fresh-flowers/) - First up today is the winner of the hand-selected collection of seeds from Jennie Love at Love ‘n Fresh Flowers! And the winner: susleekel (please email your mailing address to me at botanicalbrouhaha@gmail.com) I’m ecstatic about the second thing Jennie has offered to do for the Botanical Brouhaha readers! This is such a gift. She - [Q&A With Jennie Love From Love ‘n Fresh Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/qa-with-jennie-love-from-love-n-fresh-flowers/) - I’m thrilled to have Jennie Love with us today to answer some of your questions. Jennie is a farmer florist and owns Love ‘n Fresh Flowers. She is so generous with her time and expertise. Welcome Jennie! I'm curious what advice Jennie would give a prospective flower grower who wants to greenhouse grow cut flowers - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 38](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-38/) - image via Dilly Lily Question: Which floral supplies can you not live without? Answers: 1. Cutting tools: pruning knife and hand pruner, and a good pair of scissors to cut ribbons (and only ribbons!) 2. Structure: chicken wire and kenzan 3. Binding: green cotton wire, natural raffia and all sorts of ribbons… 4. Tape: - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: No. 47](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-47/) - The Question: I am revising my website in the next 12 months and I am strongly considering including a 'prices from' brochure/page. I have never been pro including price information. However, if I am to treat my flowers as a viable business I really need to focus on serious prospects with a reasonable budget. I - [Recap of the Francoise Weeks Woodland Workshop in Austin: Day One](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/recap-of-the-francoise-weeks-woodland-workshop-in-austin-day-one/) - My posts this week will be a little out of the norm. I hope you don’t mind. The last 2 weeks have been full of designers, flowers, traveling and experiences that I want to share with you. The adventures began with my trip to Austin, Texas for a Woodland Workshop with Francoise Weeks (hosted by Brooke - [Recap of NYC 2014 Chapel Designers Conference: Day One](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/recap-of-nyc-2014-chapel-designers-conference-day-one/) - The night before the Chapel Designers Conference began, attendees started arriving in NYC and Vasesource hosted a welcome reception in their showroom. Unfortunately I missed the reception because my flight from Houston was delayed, changed, delayed again and changed again. Isn’t traveling fun? I heard that everyone enjoyed and appreciated the kind welcome and chance - [Recap of NYC 2014 Chapel Designers Conference: Day Two](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/recap-of-nyc-2014-chapel-designers-conference-day-two/) - I’m writing the posts this week as a journal of sorts so I don’t forget the experiences, people and flowers I’ve encountered recently. I hope you guys aren’t bored stiff! We’ll be back to our usual parade of stunning flowers next week. Thanks for allowing me this time to record and reflect on the last - [Recap of the Francoise Weeks Woodland Workshop in Austin: Day Two](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/recap-of-the-francoise-weeks-woodland-workshop-in-austin-day-two/) - On Day Two of the Francoise Weeks workshop, we worked on woodland bridal bouquets using the Oasis European Bouquet holder. Each designer chose a palette of flowers, moss, sticks and foliage and got to work. It always amazes me how different the completed designs look when everyone is choosing from the same materials! I have - [Recap of NYC 2014 Chapel Designers Conference: Day Three](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/recap-of-nyc-2014-chapel-designers-conference-day-three/) - The final day of the Chapel Designer Conference began with a trip to the Flower Market… …followed by a tour of the Martha Stewart offices… The rest of the day was spent at the Hilton’s rooftop lounge… Sean Low, Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC, gave advice on proposals, contracts, pricing - [Strolling Through the NYC Flower Market: Part One](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/strolling-through-the-nyc-flower-market-part-one/) - Tweedia Frittilaria persica Cherry Blossom branches Clematis Poppies Wild Sweet Peas (crazy long and curling) Is this a dianthus? Gloriosa Lilies Peonies Ranunculus And more ranunculus Cosmos David Austin ‘Patience’ roses ‘Houdini’ rose (caught my eye from across the room) More of my stroll through the flowers tomorrow! - [Strolling Through the NYC Flower Market: Part Two](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/strolling-through-the-nyc-flower-market-part-two/) - Callas Hyacinth Huge ranunculus Let me warn you…I got stuck in the ranunculus section! And then came the sweet peas… And, finally, a nod to the hydrangeas on the way out… So long NYC…you were a stunner. - [Flower Workshop In Beautiful Boone, North Carolina](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/flower-workshop-in-beautiful-boone-north-carolina/) - Kelly Perry of Philosophy Flowers and Heather Payne of Heather Payne Photography reached out to me with an invitation for my readers to come create with them in person in the beautiful mountains of Boone, Carolina. Kelly studied to be a teacher in college and this workshop brings together three things she is very - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 41](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-41/) - image via Worlds End The Question: I grow hellebores to use as cut flowers but they always go limp. What is the trick to keep them from wilting once they have been cut? The Answers: The trick to this flower is to not cut it too young. These flowers last for weeks if they are - [And The Winner Is…](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/and-the-winner-is-3/) - The winner of Fresh From The Field Wedding Flowers by Lynn Byczynski and Erin Benzakein is… #18 Rochelle W.! Congratulations Rochelle! Please send your mailing address to botanicalbrouhaha@gmail.com. For more information on this book, you can go to the Fresh From The Field Wedding Flowers website or Facebook page. To order a copy, click - [The Winner](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-winner-3/) - Please email me at botanicalbrouhaha@gmail.com for further instructions. Congratulations! - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 36](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-36/) - image via Sophisticated Floral The Question: I'd love to start offering more items as rentals. I dabble in it a little bit with a few things like altar stands and a birch chuppah, but I don't tend to rent centerpiece containers and the like. Even the big stuff I have is rented out pretty - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 37](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-37/) - Welcome Back, Expert Panel! image via Cebolla Fine Flowers The Question: I am fairly new in the floral design business, and am still acquiring good sources for containers and candle or votive holders. I don't live near a city with a big flower market so I order from wholesalers online. Would the expert panel - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 39](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-39/) - The Question: I am frequently seeing photos of peonies (out of season) from florists around the world. Can you tell me where you source these from and are these sources reliable year on year? The Answers: In France, the peony season is mainly May and June. There are peonies available at Rungis (Paris' flower market) - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 40](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-40/) - image via Laura Kuy Flowers The Question: Besides delphinium, are there other flowers that should not be used on a cake because of their toxins? The Answers: There are a couple of schools of thought on this one. Some florists and cake makers pretty much suggest that no fresh flowers should be used - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 42](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-42/) - image via Love ‘n Fresh Flowers The Question: How did you choose your business name? How did you come up with your logo? Did you design the logo yourself or hire someone else to design it? The Answers: I found myself in business before I even realized it was happening. My work was already - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 43](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-43/) - image via City Blossoms (Danny Kim Photography) Question: I've been a floral designer for 6 years with a college degree in fashion design. I have been at my current position at a floral design studio for the last year but am looking to move onward and upward! My goal is to be hired - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 44](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-44/) - image via Floret Cadet The Question: Have you discovered any new flower varieties or floral supplies lately that you're excited about? The Answers: I've discovered the incredible Koko Loco rose but I have yet to get my hands on it. So gorgeous!! (image via Michigan Bulb Co.) -Clare Day (Clare Day Flowers) ……………………………………………………………………………….. I - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 45](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-45/) - image via Amy Merrick The Question: So many of us are using foraged or home grown foliage more and more to keep cost down, use locally grown product, and make our work unique. I would love to know what foliage you are using, growing, gathering, foraging. Any unique foliage finds? How do you hydrate/prep - [Botanical Brouhaha Expert Discussion Panel: Session 46](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-expert-discussion-panel-session-46/) - image via Chestnut & Vine The Question: What trends are you seeing in your business regarding: 1) Bouquet shape 2) Frequently chosen flower type/variety 3) Wedding themes 4) Color Palettes The Answers: I'm noticing brides really like the soft cascading bouquets and even the more dramatic cascade is seeming to make a bit of - [A New Look To Kick Off Our 6th Year](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/a-new-look-to-kick-off-our-6th-year/) - I’m thrilled to unveil the new Botanical Brouhaha site as we venture into another year filled with promise. I need to say ‘thank you’ to a few people before we continue down the road: -Thanks to Kit Peltier, Emily Brenner, Janice Bear and Jenny Nelson…my dream team from the years I owned Bliss Flower Studio. - [Botanical Brouhaha Is 5!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-brouhaha-is-5/) - This week marks 5 years since I took a chance on starting a blog about the flowers, floral designers and industry I’d grown to love while owning a studio. I never could have imagined the people I’d meet and the opportunities that would open up for me because of BB. I’m so grateful for each - [Still Trying To Keep It Real](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/still-trying-to-keep-it-real/) - The day has finally come when I feel like I need to write a personal post. You won’t hurt my feelings if you are here for flowers and decide to forgo this post. I’ll catch you tomorrow with more flowers! My family has been on a journey for the last couple of years. I wrote - [Working Designer Wednesday](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/working-designer-wednesday-42/) - A few of my favorites this week… 1. Boutonniere presentation ideas… image via Studio Fleurette and Emily Steffen Photography image via Honey of a Thousand Flowers images above via Art with Nature 2. In the studio… images above via Flowerwild image via The Hidden Garden image via Spruce (shop owner, Amy, left…with Jackie, right, from - [Wreath Love](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/wreath-love-2/) - image via Bella Flora and Caroline + Ben Photography image via Blossom Sweet image via Zita Elze Flowers image via Gertie Mae’s image via The Garden Gate Flower Company image via Gertie Mae’s and Ardent Story Photography image via La Petite Fleur image via Zita Elze Flowers image via Rosegolden Flowers and Rylie Hitcher Photography - [Antlers + Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/antlers-flowers/) - Holly Flora and Our Labor of Love by Heidi Cori Cook Floral Design and Rouxby Photography Kim Starr Wise and A Girl and a Camera Photography Todd Events and Perez Photography Summer Thornton Design and Desire to Inspire JL Designs The Vine’s Leaf and Bliss by Blue Sky’s Photography Hothouse Design Studio Arrangements La Petite - [A House In My Neighborhood Burned Today](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/a-house-in-my-neighborhood-burned-today/) - …so I’ve been thinking…how would I feel if I came home to see my house engulfed in flames? After all, my home is my refuge and I’ve put so much effort into making it a comfortable safe haven for my family. What if it were all destroyed in a matter of hours? The question brings - [The Best Valentine’s Day Gift](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-best-valentines-day-gift/) - Several times over the last month, I’ve run across articles explaining the danger of losing your blog on BlogSpot. Apparently, sometimes an entire blog will just disappear…no reason…just log on one day and it’s gone. Since I’ve published over 400 posts now, I’m a bit worried. I’ve been fretting about it to my husband…so, look - [Valentine’s Day Confession](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/valentines-day-confession/) - I don’t like getting flowers on Valentine’s Day anymore. After working as a floral designer on Valentine’s Day, my feelings for Valentine’s flowers changed. Know why? #1 I hate seeing this… I realize how handy it must be to grab your sweetheart a stuffed animal, flower arrangement and a Bud Lite gift basket on your - [The Brouhaha Turns 1 Today!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-brouhaha-turns-1-today/) - One year ago today, I started Botanical Brouhaha as a birthday present to myself…which means today is also my birthday. I have enjoyed sharing flowers with you each day and look forward to another year. It’s amazing to me that I never run out of things to share…there are just so many incredible floral designers - [Happy Anniversary Scott & Rachel](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/happy-anniversary-scott-rachel/) - This time last year, we were in Austin celebrating my cousin’s wedding at Chapel Dulcinea. I had a blast visiting Central Market the morning of the wedding with his fiancée, Rachel, to select flowers for her bridal bouquet…which she asked me to make…what a thrill! We used pink peonies, pink bouvardia, Star of Bethlehem, orange - [The Women Who Keep Me Young](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/the-women-who-keep-me-young/) - Last night two of my favorite people came over to have a fun girls’ night watching Flowers Uncut. Emily and Jenny worked as designers for Bliss Flower Studio and I LOVE spending time with them. For one thing they are both considerably younger than I am so they bring me up to speed on life - [Guess Who’s Engaged?!](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/guess-whos-engaged/) - …the girl that designed this bouquet of ranunculus and lilac for our booth at the wedding show… … the girl that makes me smile till it hurts… Kit! Kit was the first designer I hired when I started Bliss Flower Studio. She called to order flowers for her sorority sister, Kat, which got my attention. ## Pages - [Home2](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/home2/) - The Buffalo Bills lost their second game of the season on Sunday, falling to the Los Angeles Chargers 31-20. They also lost cornerback Vontae Davis, but not to a season-ending injury. According to multiple reports, Davis announced his retirement at halftime, effective immediately. Mike Rodak ✔@mikerodak Lorenzo Alexander says he was told at start of - [About](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/about/) - Amy McGee | Founder & Creative Director Amy McGee has a broad range of experience in the floral industry. She entered the industry when she began growing and selling cut flowers from her first home-based business, The Cutting Garden. Her love of floral design blossomed while providing arrangements of her locally grown flowers to an - [BB Podcast](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/botanical-podcast/) - [Expert Panel](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/expert-panel/) - Susan McLeary Passionflower Susan McLeary is a floral designer, three-dimensional artist and instructor who creates unique and uncommon boundary-pushing floral art including elaborate headpieces, floral wearables, and her signature succulent jewelry. Susan's intricate, seasonally-inspired creations and wearable floral pieces have been described as exquisite "living artwork." Considered one of the country's top designers of floral wearables and - [Contact](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/contact/) - You can also contact me directly by email: botanicalbrouhaha [@]gmail.com ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/uncategorized/) - [Designers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/designers/) - [Top 100](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/top-100/) - [Color Inspiration](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/color-inspiration/) - [Personal](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/personal/) - [Expert Discussion Panel](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/expert-discussion-panel/) - [Bouquets](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/bouquets/) - [Giveaways](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/giveaways/) - [Working Designer Wednesday](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/working-designer-wednesday/) - [Flower Varieties](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/flower-varieties/) - [Containers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/containers/) - [Artificial flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/artificial-flowers/) - [Style](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/style/) - [How to](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/how-to/) - [Animals](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/animals/) - [Leftovers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/leftovers/) - [Centerpieces](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/centerpieces/) - [Hanging Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/hanging-flowers/) - [Workshops](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/workshops/) - [Field Trips](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/field-trips/) - [Technique](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/technique/) - [Growers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/growers/) - [Studio](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/studio/) - [Flower Wall](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/flower-wall/) - [Resources](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/resources/) - [Business](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/business/) - [Living with Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/living-with-flowers/) - [Photo Shoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/photo-shoot/) - [Photoshoot](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/photoshoot/) - [Behind the Scenes](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/behind-the-scenes/) - [Interview](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/interview/) - [Dropping By the Brouhaha](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/dropping-by-the-brouhaha/) - [Sympathy Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/sympathy-flowers/) - [Ingredients](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/ingredients/) - [Mechanics](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/mechanics/) - [Mornings with Maggie](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/mornings-with-maggie/) - [Podcast](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/podcast/) - [Dried Flowers](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/dried-flowers/) - [BB+](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/bbplus/) - [Sustainability](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/category/sustainability/) ## Tags - [Compote](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tag/compote/) - [Francoise Weeks](https://www.botanicalbrouhaha.com/tag/francoise-weeks/)