Podcasts about florist

When you dive into wedding planning, floral pricing can come with some serious sticker shock. But on today's episode of Wedding Secrets Unveiled!, Isa Xiarhos of Isa Xiarhos Floral Design is here to calm the overwhelm and share practical tips and tricks for managing your flower budget. Isa explains how to elevate your arrangements while smartly repurposing standout designs throughout the day—so you get the biggest impact for your investment. Come peek behind the curtain with us as we unveil a few floral industry secrets just for you. Please rate, review and subscribe to this podcast wherever you're listening so you never miss an episode. Even better share it with a friend! It's a great way to show your support and let us know what you think. Thank you for listening. To get the full show notes head to https://sarazarrella.com/what-your-florist-wishes-you-knew-wedding-secrets-unveiled-podcast/ For more information check out our website at www.sarazarrella.com/podcast Check us out on YouTube! Make sure to like and subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/@SaraZarrella/podcasts Join our Monthly Newsletter for tips, tricks and Freebies! https://sarazarrella.com/newsletter Would love to be friends on the gram at https://www.instagram.com/sarazarrellaphotography/

You can be booked out, exhausted, and still broke—and if that's been you, you're not alone. In this episode, Jen breaks down the real reasons florists struggle to make money (even with “good” revenue), and the practical shifts that turn a busy floral business into a profitable one. We're talking pricing for profit, plugging the holes in your boat, tracking the numbers that matter, and building a business model that supports your life—not consumes it.In this episode, we cover:Why busyness is NOT the same thing as successThe moment Jen realized she was doing the most… and making nothingThe truth: profit is what's left after flowers, labor, overhead, waste, and stressWhy florists underprice: fear, comparison, people-pleasing, and “being nice”The biggest profit leaks Jen sees (especially in delivery + service fees)How to stop saying “How can I make this work?” when the budget is unrealisticWhy you don't need more clients—you need better marginsWhat to review right now to find the holes in your business (and plug them)The mindset shift that changes everything: “When I do something, I deserve to make money for it.”Why support matters: coaching, mastermind rooms, outside eyes, and accountabilityTakeaway Challenge (do this today):Calculate your average wedding value (or average order value if you're retail).Pick one fee to audit (delivery/setup/service fee/product markup).Choose one boundary that protects your profit (minimum, scope, delivery radius, etc.).Ready for support?The Floral CEO Mastermind: http://floralceo.com/mastermindFloral Rockstar Workshops: http://floralceo.com/workshopWant a personalized strategy? Email jen@floralceo.com or DM Jen on Instagram.

Hello Flower friends. Today we're gonna talk about style shoots, and I've been reminded of  really like  the costs, not only  from a, you know.  Actual phy physical costs, like money, you have to pay for the flowers and all these things, but like the emotional costs and the mental energy that you're using there, it's so much bigger than I think somebody looking in on Instagram at somebody's magical moment really is.So, style shoots are super glamorous on Instagram, but let's really talk about the actual cost you. Because  that's way, way, way, way, way more than flowers. All right, so let's start off with the real cost of flowers.  You are usually not putting your shoddy foot forward, so we're not usually putting in things that are leftovers or are maybe not at their peak of their prime, usually not basic Betty Flowers you're using.Buying premium blooms, you're designing multiple pieces for content. So a ceremony, a table, a bouquet, an installation on and on.  Flowers are often not easily repurposable for paid work, so you're not like able to just, I'm gonna take all these and then tear it apart and then use it for a paid job. Usually there isn't that like great opportunity to do that. And then there's a risk of waste if designs don't photograph well, like you could potentially have something that just doesn't photograph well for some reason. Um, this is a marketing expense,  not a fun creative project. It costs money to market. In styled shoots are a way to market your business in several levels.Marketing with the pictures that you're getting in the long run. Marketing, hopefully if you have a team on board that is stellar and is, you know,  uh,  people who are usually kind of at their top of their game that are, are vendors that like to be submitted for styled shoots for potential publication. Then there's a relationship capital. The relationships that you build at these, it's just, there's just domino of value, and  I would love for you to get that value out of those situations, but I would love for you not to blow your marketing budget on one.  All right, the next one.  Is really the time costs, and nobody really talks about this, but as someone who backs into what my hourly wage is. Often and does that with coaching clients, like things take time, mood boards, conceptions, like all of those things, take time. Emailing with collaborators, coordinating schedules, chasing deliverables, packing and loading, and set up and tear down, editing content, posting, tagging, following up. You could easily put in 24 40, 22, 40 hours into one shoot.Easy.  Um, and that's time you could have spent designing for paying clients, working on your business or imagine this resting.  All right. The next one is the mental and emotional load.  This part is exhausting.  Will the photographer deliver the actual.  Like look and feel that I'm going for, will this venue share the images?Will this even attract my ideal client?  Do I choose? Did I choose? Like,  you know, you're always looking at something and you're just like, oh my God, it's so beautiful. But really, did you choose the right color palette, concept model, and all of that for the right. You know, venue and all of that with the right photographer.'cause like all these things kind of meld together. The emotional labor on this is totally real.  All right. Then there is the collaboration tax.  Even with donations, you are still coordinating a mini production.  You are often carrying the creative and logistics load because like the flowers are the prettiest part of that. I care about things being really fucking pretty when I'm doing these types of things, and  that can sometimes be dicey, so  I, I wanna make sure that I'm getting the right team in place.  All right, and then you're relying on other people's professionalism. You can't, don't control timelines, edits, or brand alignment, and sometimes you walk away with images you don't even want to use, which is a complete truth.I had this exact example when gay marriage was legalized in Minnesota.  Somebody invited me into a inclusive shoot that was basically like a pride themed. It was in June, so it was going to be published in like a local pride, um, themed magazine and on and on, and.  The photographer, like I really liked them as a person, but that was some dark and booty shit.Like they just have a darker photo style than I like to fill my feed with. I like light and airy. I think light and airy speaks to money,  and  so I spent close to a thousand dollars of flowers  and I mean, I can say that I did it and I did it for a good reason to celebrate,  but.  I didn't post those photos because they were too dark and it just wasn't my jam. All right,  then here's the hard truth. Style shoots are high effort, high emotional output,  like high cost, low certainty  from an ROI perspective. They can be,  but. They're not only the one way to build a portfolio or elevate your brand, and I think that's how most people think that they need to do it.  So  I wanna talk about why workshops could be depending on where you're at,  a smarter move. So instead of spending potentially a thousand dollars on flowers, coordinating with six vendors, hoping the photos turn out, crossing your fingers, that everything comes together, that your model shows up, that your, you know, photographer delivers and doesn't take a million years, and  your makeup artist shows up and just all of those things. Those are all like you're resting a lot of the success of this on other people. But  when you go to a workshop, you get this curated high-end installs, professional photography, intentional design for portfolio use. You get education strategy, hands-on, skill building and content that actually aligns with higher end clients.So I.  I want you to remove the guesswork and the what if anxiety and the production stress and wasted time, and really replace it with strategic brand positioning, portfolio content. You're proud of  education and confidence and an excellent real ROI like.  You actually did something. This wasn't just objective.You're like, you did something that you have this experience, you learned and you got this portfolio. It's just like so magical.  I know 'cause I have designed and put together so many styled shoots that this can be a beast.  And I have seen Floris go in and spend three, $4,000 get horse shit. Direction from the person running the style shoot.I realistically won't really do a style shoot unless I am collaborating with a, an event designer. So somebody that really lives in the design space and I have heavy impact, I. In the decisions I, and also I potentially brought the initial VIN vision to fruition. I normally just like to do run with myself, you know, like, here's the concept, I'm gonna run with it because I don't want to get.Bogged up in details that are easy for me to figure out, but we have to have like 30 minute conversations about fucking glasses. I just don't have time for that. Like I'll figure out the glasses, they'll be fine. They'll be beautiful. Like I just went and figured out all the linens for four different things that are coming up and it was just absolutely stunning.So.  If you're feeling exhausted by trying to DIY, your brand elevation through style shoots or maybe your  portfolio,  uh, elevation, there's an easier way, and I have three workshops coming up that will nail  any one of these goals. And if you want to even do two even better because then you would get a more diverse portfolio. 

Gugs Mhlungu chats to Ziphozethu Buthelezi, Founder of Handsome Florist, about his journey from a love of plants to launching a luxury flower boutique in Bryanston. They discuss building a modern flower brand in a women-dominated industry, his vision to grow the business into a franchise, and how flowers can celebrate life beyond the usual occasions. Gugs Mhlungu gets you ready for the weekend each Saturday and Sunday morning on 702. She is your weekend wake-up companion, with all you need to know for your weekend. The topics Gugs covers range from lifestyle, family, health, and fitness to books, motoring, cooking, culture, and what is happening on the weekend in 702land. Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu. Listen live on Primedia+ on Saturdays and Sundays from 06:00 and 10:00 (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/u3Sf7Zy or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/BIXS7AL Subscribe to the 702 daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is something meaningful about beginning again.As we step into our third season of ReBloom, we find ourselves reflecting on all that has unfolded—both in the in-between spaces and in the moments that asked more of us than we expected. Seasons have a way of doing that. They stretch us, reshape us, and invite growth we could not have planned.In this opening episode of the year, we sit down together to talk honestly about where we have been, what we have learned, and the steady ways we are choosing to rebloom. Not through dramatic declarations, but through everyday decisions. Through paying attention. Through making room for hope. Through believing that beauty still has a place, even after difficult chapters.At its heart, ReBloom is a conversation between friends. It is also about resilience—the choice to begin again and the recognition that creative growth rarely moves in a straight line.As we welcome this new season, we hope that these conversations feel like a companion to your own journey. Whether you are in a season of growth, rest, grief, joy, or somewhere in between, there is space for you here. There is always the possibility of new life, new perspective, and beauty ready to unfold.Thank you for being part of this community. We are grateful to begin again—with you.Peace, Love and ReBloomJamie & LoriFollow us on @rebloom.podcast, @lorisiebert.studio and @alajamieBig thank you to our sponsor: Jet Creative: A women-owned marketing firm committed to community and empowerment. Whether you're launching a podcast or building a website, Jet Creative can help you get started. Visit JetCreative.com/Podcast to kickstart your journey!

Picture a psychologist with 25 years in perinatal mental health — burned out from holding space for loss and trauma for decades.She needed something that was just hers. No clinical notes, no disclosure risk, no empathy fatigue. She chose floristry.And then her perinatal colleagues found out. And asked her to bring it to conferences. Then to teach it online. Now she has a waiting list of clinicians who want in.Today's guest, Carla Anderson, is a clinical psychologist who built two very different streams inside one business — perinatal mental health training for healthcare clinicians, and floristry-based therapeutic programs for clinician self-care. She didn't plan it. She followed her gut. And the market responded in ways she didn't see coming.HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS:1️⃣ Your Burnout Might Be Pointing You Somewhere — Carla needed something that shut her brain off after 25 years of perinatal loss and trauma work. Floristry did that. What started as self-preservation became the foundation of an entirely new program. Your burnout isn't a problem to solve. Sometimes it's a signpost.2️⃣ The "Weird" Idea Is Often the One That Takes Off — Carla kept reverting to her safe perinatal niche because floristry felt too new, too hard to package. Then perinatal conferences kept asking her to run the floristry sessions. Fellow Incubator members asked when they could join. The market told her what it wanted — she just had to listen long enough to believe it.3️⃣ You Don't Have to Explain Everything Upfront — People come to Carla's workshops thinking it's about flower arranging. By the end they're doing deep reflective work through metaphor. You don't need a ten-paragraph explanation. You just need to get people in the room. The experience does the convincing.YOU'LL ALSO HEAR:Why healthcare clinicians (GPs, midwives, doctors) are desperately under-resourced when it comes to psychological support skills — and how Carla fills that gapWhat therapeutic horticulture actually is and the science behind why nature-based practices workHow she structured her first beta launch (including the Valentine's Day flowers disaster that became an accidental metaphor)The internal flip-flopping between the safe niche and the exciting one — and how she finally stopped revertingWhat it looks like to let market feedback build your confidence instead of waiting for certainty firstWhy everything is figureoutable — including how to teach flower arranging onlineRESOURCES: Connect with Carla Anderson:Website: www.carlaandersoncliniciantraining.comFacebook & Instagram: @carlaandersoncliniciantrainingLinkedIn: Carla AndersonTherapists Rising Programs:Caseload to Course Bootcamp: https://therapistsrising.com/bootcampThe Incubator: therapistsrising.com/incubatorInstagram: @dr.hayleykellySUBSCRIBE & REVIEW: If this episode made you look at your "just for me" hobby differently, subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help other therapists find conversations that give them permission to build something unexpected.You don't have to abandon what you're good at to build something new. You don't have to have it all figured out before you start. And you definitely don't have to ignore the thing that lights you up just because it doesn't fit the obvious mould.What if the thing you thought was just for you is exactly what other clinicians need? What opens up when you stop treating your own joy as a liability?

Money is one of the most emotional, loaded topics in the floral industry—and it's keeping too many florists stuck in survival mode. In this episode, Jen dives deep into the money mindset shifts florists need to make to stop undercharging, stop feeling guilty about profit, and start building a business that actually supports their life.If you've ever felt awkward charging what you're worth, told yourself “I do this because I love flowers,” or normalized burnout as part of the job—this episode is your wake-up call.In this episode, we cover:Why wanting to make money does not make you greedyThe damaging “starving artist” narrative in creative industriesWhy revenue does not equal profit (and why so many florists still aren't paying themselves)How underpricing actually hurts your clients, not just youThe invisible labor florists provide (logistics, emotional labor, problem-solving)Why your business should fund your life—not consume itThe difference between survival mode and abundance modeHow being paid well allows you to show up more creatively and confidentlyPowerful Money Mindset Shifts:Wanting more money = financial security, not greedBeing busy doesn't mean being successfulUnderpricing isn't generosity—it's self-sabotageYour expertise has value beyond the flowersYou don't have to struggle to be worthyA profitable business creates freedom, not burnoutReflection Prompts from This Episode:Where am I undercharging because I'm afraid?What would change if I truly believed I deserved to be paid well?What is one small money boundary I can set this month?What hourly rate do I actually need to feel valued for my time?Links & Resources Mentioned:Floral CEO Mastermind: https://floralceo.com/mastermindWorkshops & Education: https://floralceo.com/workshop

What does it mean to feel both content where you are and called to something more? In this episode, host Val McNichols sits down with Jen Cavender of Nectar & Bloom for a thoughtful conversation about creativity, intuition, and building a life in floral design that feels aligned. Jen's journey began on her family's produce farm, where she grew and sold flowers alongside her sister. Though she later pursued poetry and academia, she eventually realized that flowers could hold both artistic expression and career. Today, she's not only a floral designer but also the creator of Tarot of Flowers — a tarot-inspired floral deck and guidebook born from symbolism, storytelling, and a deep love of meaning-making. Jen shares how synesthesia and the idea of "translation" shape her work — how she translates what she sees, senses, and feels into floral form. She also opens up about imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and the tension between wanting to do everything and learning to let some things go. The episode closes with a live Tarot of Flowers reading — find out what card Val pulls and what the message reveals. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and pull up a chair for every episode. Visit the link for show notes and video podcast: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/beautiful-people-jen-cavender

https://theexposuretriangle.com/  - Mentorship and Mastermind Group is now open for enrollment - grab a seat before they are gone What does it actually take to build an ultra-luxury brand in the wedding industry? Maxine Owens didn't grow her business by chasing more weddings. She did it by refining her work, elevating her brand, and building intentional relationships with the right people. Today, she designs some of the highest-end weddings in the industry while taking on only a limited number of events each year. In this conversation, Maxine shares how she transitioned from zoology to luxury floral design, why rebranding transformed her business, and how genuine networking created real momentum. We also talk about client experience, creative alignment, and why saying no is often the move that moves you forward. This episode quietly reflects all three pillars of the Exposure Triangle: Work, Brand, and Network.   Follow Maxine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxowensdesign/  Check out Maxine's Website: https://maxowensdesign.com/   

Valentine's Day is over—and whether you crushed it or barely survived, the real growth happens after the holiday. In this minisode, Jen walks florists through how to do a post-holiday recap like a CEO so you can stop repeating the same chaos every year and start building a more profitable, sustainable business.If you're tired of white-knuckling holidays and hoping “next year will be better,” this episode will show you how to turn Valentine's (and every major holiday) into a data-driven growth strategy.In this episode, we cover:Why the money is in the review, not just the revenueHow to use data (not feelings) to make better business decisionsThe 5 areas every florist should review after Valentine's Day:Financials (revenue, average order value, profit margin)Operations & systems (what broke, what worked)Labor & staffing (overstaffed vs understaffed)Product mix & pricing (what sold, what didn't)Your energy & capacity (burnout prevention)How your Valentine's data informs:Mother's DayPromWedding seasonHiring decisionsThe CEO mindset shift from “survive it” to “optimize it”How to make future holidays more profitable without working harderFree Resource:Download the free Holiday Recap Worksheet to walk through this process step by step:

When the Academy and the War College are spirited away on a field trip to visit the USS Miyazaki, everything seems like fun and games until rabid bat men crash the party. But when Captain Ake is short on options for saving the students, Admiral Openly-Judges-You-For-Not-Having-In-Unit-Laundry suggests they should set Nus on the loose. What grade level does a ship's computer read at? How do you best cook a Caleb Mir? What's the worst part about invisible space suits? It's the episode that's front and center for the Andrew Davis film festival. Support the production of Greatest TrekGet a thing at podshop.biz!Sign up for our mailing list!Greatest Trek is produced by Wynde PriddySocial media is managed by Rob Adler and Bill TilleyMusic by Adam RaguseaFriends of DeSoto for: Labor | Democracy | JusticeDiscuss the show using the hashtag #GreatestTrek and find us on social media:YouTube | Facebook | X | Instagram | TikTok | Mastodon | Bluesky | ThreadsAnd check out these online communities run by FODs: Reddit | USS Hood Discord | Facebook group | Wikia | FriendsOfDeSoto.social Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, and still wanting your floral business to grow? You're not broken—you're human. In this minisode, Jen breaks down 10 simple, doable actions to help you regain momentum in your business even when life feels heavy. This episode is all about compassionate strategy: tiny steps, CEO-level thinking, and getting out of freeze mode without burning yourself out.You'll learn how to shift from emotional overwhelm into grounded action, create forward motion without needing “perfect conditions,” and refocus your energy on what actually moves the needle in your floral business.In This Episode, We Cover:Why overwhelm doesn't mean you're failing—it means you careHow to take action even when you feel behind or stuckThe power of micro-momentum when everything feels like “too much”How to identify the one next step that matters mostCEO-level thinking when your nervous system wants to shut downWhy consistency beats intensity when you're overwhelmedHow to simplify your priorities when your brain feels clutteredWhat to focus on in your business when you don't have extra energyHow to build habits that support growth (even in hard seasons)Reframing overwhelm into clarity, control, and confidenceKey Takeaway:You don't need a perfect plan or unlimited time to grow your floral business. You need one small, intentional step that moves you forward. Momentum creates clarity. Action creates confidence. Even when life feels heavy, your business can still grow—if you choose progress over perfection.Resources & Mentions:Floral CEO Mastermind: https://floralceo.com/mastermindFloral Rockstar Workshops: https://floralceo.com/workshopConnect with Jen:Instagram: @‌thefloralceoWebsite: https://floralceo.com

Sara Polsinger from Forget-Me-Not Florist talks about the busy Valentine's Day season, their partnerships with local businesses this year, and more. 

Nurses striking at Mount Sinai and Montefiore hospitals have reached tentative agreements on new contracts, potentially ending a nearly month-long walkout. New York NAACP says communities of color in New York are being disproportionately affected by toxic plastic. The organization is calling for new legislation to curb plastic packaging. The Bronx celebrated World Hijab Day with a fashion show at Bronx Boro Hall. It highlighted the resilience and cultural pride of Muslim women. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda reports. A state-of-the-art community center is now open in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. After 13 years, the ​Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center cut the ribbon to open its doors​ today. A Manhattan florist hosted a love letter pop up. WFUV City Scape host Sienna Reinders attended the gallery, and tells us what she saw. Host/Producer: Jay Doherty Editor: Robin Shannon Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Robin Shannon Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

This evening we dive into the latest market movements with Sanlam Private Wealth, we get an update from Lesaka Technologies, we speak to Denker Capital about SA securing membership and funding from Afreximbank, Allianz Trade helps us unpack SA's debt collection challenges, Standard Bank highlights critical minerals as a key theme at this year's Mining Indaba, and we chat to Julep Flowers, a local online florist helping relationships bloom. SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream

Send us a textSupport the show

How to Grow Your Floral Business Revenue (Without Guessing or Burning Out)Growing your floral business revenue doesn't start with hustling harder — it starts with clarity.In this episode, Jen breaks down how to intentionally grow revenue by looking at what's already working, identifying where your biggest opportunities live, and creating a strategy rooted in facts — not feelings.After a full month of deep coaching sessions and mastermind strategy calls, one thing became crystal clear: florists who grow sustainably understand their numbers, track their revenue intentionally, and make decisions like CEOs.If you've ever said:“I want to make more money, but I don't know where to start”“I'm booked, but I'm not profitable”“I feel busy but unsure if I'm actually growing”This episode is for you.In this episode, you'll learn:Why “I want to grow by 10%” is not a strategy — and what to do insteadHow to break down your revenue by category (weddings, funerals, corporate, a la carte, etc.)How to identify which part of your business has the most growth potentialTwo main ways to grow revenue:Increasing your average order valueIncreasing the number of aligned clientsHow small pricing adjustments (delivery, setup, labor, service fees) can unlock thousands in revenueWhy tracking and forecasting your weddings changes how you make decisionsHow upsells, thoughtful design suggestions, and month-out calls can increase revenue without more bookingsWhy paying yourself should be a forethought, not an afterthoughtHow cutting expenses and improving margins can increase take-home pay without more workWhy running your business on data (not vibes) is a CEO moveKey takeaways:✔ Revenue growth comes from reflection + forecasting✔ You don't need more bookings — you need better strategy✔ Knowing your numbers gives you power, confidence, and options✔ Paying yourself is non-negotiable — this is a business, not a hobbyTools & resources mentioned:Profit First (book & audiobook)Simple revenue tracking spreadsheetsForecasting your booked weddings throughout the yearReady for support?If this episode made you realize you need help building a real growth strategy, Jen offers:1:1 private coaching sessions Coaching Call-1 hr. $ - Jeni BechtThe Floral CEO Mastermind — monthly strategy, Q&A, and CEO-level support

Episode 319: Kindness is a free investment with the highest returns — so why don't more florists treat it that way? Inspired by Warren Buffett's philosophy, Vonda and Lori dive into how small acts of kindness can transform your customer service, team culture, and productivity. With real-life stories and science-backed insights, this episode will change how you think about what it takes to build lasting loyalty.Sponsored by: Flower CliqueFlower Clique Prep SchoolReal Life Retail Florist

In this minisode, Jen breaks down the 10 habits she consistently sees in florists who are thriving—financially, creatively, and mentally. Inspired by Atomic Habits and grounded in real coaching conversations with florists at every stage, this episode isn't about doing more. It's about doing the right things consistently.If you've ever wondered why some florists seem calm, confident, booked, and profitable—this episode pulls back the curtain.In this episode, we cover:Successful florists plan before they designCalm wedding days come from preparation—not talent alone. Timelines, recipes, mechanics, and labor are reviewed before flower week ever starts.They know their numbers (even if they hate them)Average wedding value, labor costs, and profit margins matter. Profitable florists make decisions based on facts, not feelings.They communicate clearly and confidentlyNo over-explaining. No apologizing for pricing. Clear, calm communication builds trust and authority.They say no more than they say yesBoundaries protect energy, creativity, and profitability. Saying no is a business strategy—not a failure.They take action before they feel readyConfidence is built through action. Posting, raising prices, and trying new designs all come before feeling “ready.”They build systems that support busy seasonsTemplates, workflows, and checklists reduce stress and prevent burnout when things get hectic.They protect their creativityCreativity is treated like a resource—not something to drain dry. Successful florists intentionally seek inspiration and avoid burnout work.They show up consistently (not constantly)Sustainable marketing rhythms beat burnout posting cycles. Visibility comes from consistency, not volume.They evolve instead of staying stuckPricing, offerings, branding, and business models change as florists grow. Reflection and adaptability are key.10. They think like CEOs, not just designersDecisions are made with long-term sustainability, alignment, and profitability in mind—not short-term ease.Key takeaway:Success isn't about working harder—it's about building habits that support the business and life you want.Resources & Next Steps:Want accountability and CEO-level support? Learn more about the Floral CEO Mastermind

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Flowers of Love: A Florist's Journey to Valentine's Magic Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-02-01-23-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: Het was een koude winterdag in Amsterdam.En: It was a cold winter day in Amsterdam.Nl: De straten waren bedekt met een dun laagje ijs en de adem van de mensen hing als wolkjes in de lucht.En: The streets were covered with a thin layer of ice, and people's breath hung in the air like little clouds.Nl: In de gezellige bloemenwinkel aan de gracht waren de voorbereidingen voor Valentijnsdag in volle gang.En: In the cozy flower shop along the canal, preparations for Valentine's Day were in full swing.Nl: Het was een drukke tijd voor Bram en Femke, de twee hardwerkende bloembinders van de stad.En: It was a busy time for Bram and Femke, the two hardworking florists of the city.Nl: Bram was dol op bloemen.En: Bram loved flowers.Nl: Zijn passie voor bloemontwerp zorgde ervoor dat elke bloem op de juiste plek zat.En: His passion for floral design ensured that every flower was in the right spot.Nl: Maar nu voelde hij zich overweldigd.En: But now he felt overwhelmed.Nl: De bestellingen stroomden binnen en hij wilde dat de etalage van hun winkel de mooiste van Amsterdam zou zijn.En: Orders were pouring in, and he wanted their shop's display to be the most beautiful in Amsterdam.Nl: "Dit jaar moet het perfect zijn," zei Bram vaak tegen Femke.En: "This year it must be perfect," Bram often said to Femke.Nl: Femke glimlachte dan altijd optimistisch terug.En: Femke would always smile back optimistically.Nl: "Maak je geen zorgen, Bram.En: "Don't worry, Bram.Nl: We kunnen het samen doen."En: We can do it together."Nl: Femke hield van de drukte.En: Femke loved the busyness.Nl: Haar creativiteit bloeide op als een verse bloem in al deze chaos.En: Her creativity flourished like a fresh flower in all this chaos.Nl: Ze droomde ervan dat mensen zeiden dat hun winkel de beste van de stad was.En: She dreamed of people saying that their shop was the best in the city.Nl: Maar toen kwam er een gigantische bestelling binnen.En: But then, a gigantic order came in.Nl: Er waren zoveel rozen en tulpen en de tijd was bijna op.En: There were so many roses and tulips, and time was running out.Nl: Toen ontstond er spanning tussen Bram en Femke.En: Tension arose between Bram and Femke.Nl: Ze moesten de dagelijkse klanten helpen én deze grote bestelling afmaken.En: They had to help the daily customers and complete this large order.Nl: "Misschien moeten we wat langer doorwerken," stelde Bram voor.En: "Maybe we should work a little longer," Bram suggested.Nl: Hij voelde de druk stijgen.En: He felt the pressure rising.Nl: Femke knikte en zei: "Goed idee.En: Femke nodded and said, "Good idea.Nl: Maar laten we niet vergeten dat de etalage ook belangrijk is."En: But let's not forget that the display is also important."Nl: Ze wisten dat ze een beslissing moesten maken.En: They knew they had to make a decision.Nl: Op de avond voor Valentijnsdag zaten Bram en Femke in de winkel, omringd door bakken vol bloemen.En: On the eve of Valentine's Day, Bram and Femke sat in the shop, surrounded by bins full of flowers.Nl: Ze hadden nauwelijks tijd om de etalage te doen.En: They barely had time for the display.Nl: "Wat moeten we doen?"En: "What should we do?"Nl: vroeg Bram radeloos.En: Bram asked helplessly.Nl: Femke keek naar al het moois om hen heen.En: Femke looked at all the beauty around them.Nl: "Misschien kunnen we iets eenvoudigs maken, met mijn nieuwe ideeën.En: "Maybe we can create something simple, with my new ideas.Nl: Het hoeft niet perfect, alleen opvallend."En: It doesn't have to be perfect, just striking."Nl: Bram dacht na en knikte toen langzaam.En: Bram thought for a moment and then nodded slowly.Nl: Samen begonnen ze een eenvoudige maar opvallende etalage te maken.En: Together they began to create a simple yet striking display.Nl: De rozen en tulpen straalden in het zachtglanzende avondlicht.En: The roses and tulips shone in the softly glowing evening light.Nl: Terwijl ze werkten, merkte Bram dat het niet altijd om perfectie ging.En: As they worked, Bram realized that it wasn't always about perfection.Nl: Femke's idee gaf de etalage een uniek karakter.En: Femke's idea gave the display a unique character.Nl: De volgende morgen was het Valentijnsdag.En: The next morning was Valentine's Day.Nl: Klanten stroomden binnen, aangetrokken door de bijzondere etalage.En: Customers poured in, attracted by the special display.Nl: Bram en Femke keken elkaar aan, moe maar tevreden.En: Bram and Femke looked at each other, tired but satisfied.Nl: De drukte die eerst een veroorzaker van stress was, veranderde in iets moois.En: The hustle that had initially caused stress turned into something beautiful.Nl: Bram leerde de waarde van samenwerking en dat eenvoud net zo mooi kan zijn als perfectie.En: Bram learned the value of cooperation and that simplicity can be just as beautiful as perfection.Nl: Femke zag hoe haar ideeën een verschil konden maken.En: Femke saw how her ideas could make a difference.Nl: Samen maakten ze hun bloemenwinkel speciaal en straalde de liefde en passie voor hun werk door de ramen naar buiten, de drukke stad in.En: Together they made their flower shop special, with love and passion for their work shining out through the windows into the bustling city. Vocabulary Words:cozy: gezelligeflorist: bloembinderoverwhelmed: overweldigdorders: bestellingenpouring: stroomdenoptimistically: optimistischbusyness: drukteflourished: bloeide opgigantic: gigantischetension: spanningpressure: drukeve: avondhelplessly: radeloosstriking: opvallendglowing: zachtglanzenderealized: merkteperfection: perfectieunique: uniekattracted: aangetrokkensatisfied: tevredenhustle: druktecooperation: samenwerkingsimplicity: eenvoudshining: straaldedisplay: etalagelayer: laagjechaos: chaoscreativity: creativiteitdecision: beslissingsurrounded: omringd

Most florists think branding is something you do after you're established — after the logo, the website, the luxury weddings, the polished feed.But the truth is this: you already have a brand.And if you don't intentionally shape it, your clients will shape it for you.In this episode, Jen breaks down what a brand actually is (and what it isn't), why your behavior matters more than polish, and how you can start building a powerful, recognizable brand from any stage of business.This isn't about aesthetics — it's about alignment, consistency, and becoming known for something.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why a brand is a feeling, not a logoHow your behavior builds your brand faster than visualsWhy you are the brand (especially early on)How to pick a lane instead of trying to be everythingThe power of repetition in brand buildingHow boundaries create a premium brandWhy consistency builds trust and recognitionHow personal branding accelerates growthWhen (and why) it's okay to evolve your brandHow strong branding attracts better clients with less effortKey Takeaway:A brand isn't built in polish — it's built in how you show up.Your energy, tone, boundaries, and consistency are the brand.Action Steps:Choose 3 words you want people to associate with youUpdate your bio with what you want to be known forAudit your communication — does it sound like you?Decide what you're no longer available forStart showing up consistently, not perfectlyRepeat your message instead of reinventing itBrand is a long game — and that's what makes it powerful.

Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, delves into the core principles of crop planning for flower farms. Emphasizing alignment rather than control, she discusses scheduling bloom times to match sales needs. Liz shares insights from her own experiences, explaining how she uses succession planting and planning tools to optimize planting schedules and fulfill her varied event commitments. While promoting her crop planning platform Farmers to Florist, she insists the principles can be applied manually with notebooks or spreadsheets. Liz underscores the importance of early planning to make informed decisions and maximize the use of crops during their harvest windows. The episode also highlights the upcoming Flower Farmer Forum conference and provides resources for further learning and support for rural entrepreneurs.00:00 Introduction to Crop Planning00:10 Welcome to Rooted Agritourism00:40 Understanding Crop Planning for Flower Farms01:50 The Importance of Crop Planning02:32 Real-Life Examples from My Farm04:02 Planning for Different Business Models05:27 Succession Planting and Season Extension09:11 Using Tools for Efficient Crop Planning13:10 Final Thoughts and Upcoming EventsPre-Order Flowers Bloom Anyway: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flowers-bloom-anyway-a-memoir-liz-fiedler-mergen/1148638651?ean=9781636989273Save $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by installations (or worried something's going to fall, shift, or turn into a full-blown stress spiral on site)… this minisode is for you.Jen shares her go-to installation workflow (including why she builds 90% in the studio) plus the exact tools that make installs faster, safer, and way more confident.In This Episode, We Cover:Why building most of your install in your studio reduces stress + mistakesHow to save almost 50% on foam cages by buying empty cages onlineThe easiest way to hang installs with airplane cable without manual screw stopsThe zip tie mistake that makes installs weaker (and harder to tighten)Jen's favorite “modular” stand system for head tables, bars, arches, and spill designsResources Mentioned (Links)One-brick foam cages — Jen's go-to➡️ https://a.co/d/bKOUxkdUrban Trapeze cable stops (no crimping tool needed)➡️ https://a.co/d/3RdwidIPlastic-coated airplane cable (Jen's preference)➡️ https://a.co/d/cgOtk8630-inch heavy-duty zip ties (thick + strong)➡️ https://a.co/d/ilMtf8DMetal “square tent stands” for 2x4 installs (modular base system)➡️ https://www.etsy.com/listing/607288186/two-square-tan-stands?ref=yr_purchasesWant to Learn This Hands-On?Installation Rockstar Workshop

Holly is part of the 4th generation ownership team of Kittelberger, Rochester's juggernaut brand for flowers & gifts. She shares with us the history of how this iconic brand came to be, what each generation brought along the way, what her day-to-day is like, and what is in store for the future.Mentioned in this episode:Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own BusinessCheck out Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own Business on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/gettingrealwithbossy/Punches & PopcornThe masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D'Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films.Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone.Use promo code Lunchador for 15% off your order! https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Ever feel like you're doing “all the right things” — consults, proposals, follow-ups — and still hearing no? In this episode, Jen breaks down what happened after she received three client no's in a row, how she audited her response times, proposal quality, tone, and energy… and how she turned that slump into four yeses (including higher-budget bookings).This is a must-listen for wedding florists who want to book more weddings, improve their close rate, and communicate with more confidence, even when life feels heavy.What You'll LearnWhy “no's” often have nothing to do with your design skillsHow your energy + excitement shows up in your consults (even if you think it doesn't)The sneaky ways your response time impacts your booking rateHow templated emails can accidentally make you sound cold, robotic, or not like youThe difference between being “professional” and being forgettableHow to re-ignite your passion when you're feeling overwhelmed or burned outA simple self-audit to do anytime your close rate dipsThe “Booking Slump Audit” (Steal This)If you're getting no's, ask yourself:How fast did I respond to the inquiry + follow-ups?Did my proposal feel custom + enthusiastic or copy/paste?Did my email tone sound like me?Did I highlight what makes me the right choice (venue expertise, sourcing, seasonality, confidence)?Was I excited… or was I operating from stress, overwhelm, or “whatever”?Key TakeawaysPeople don't just book flowers — they book confidence, care, and leadershipBrides want to feel like you're excited about THEIR wedding, not just another jobYou can be honest and still sell with energy (even if the world feels heavy)You can turn the game around fast — one email, one consult, one proposal at a timeAction StepPick ONE lead you're currently nurturing and do this today:Re-read your last email/proposal and ask:“Would I book me after reading this?”Then add 2–3 lines of personality + excitement + expert guidance.MentionedYour consultation + proposal turnaround timeWhy “education” is part of selling wedding flowersHow to communicate value without sounding defensiveDesigning a business that attracts clients you actually loveWant support + structure?If you're ready to tighten up your sales process, raise your close rate, and book aligned clients — come hang out with us inside the Floral CEO Mastermind.

If you want 2026 to be the year you finally feel like a confident, profitable, in-control Floral CEO, this minisode is for you.In this episode, Jeni shares five essential goals every florist should add to their goal list — whether you're a newer business owner or a seasoned florist who wants more ease, clarity, and profitability.These aren't fluffy goals. They're CEO-level goals that help you stop running your business in reactivity and start running it with intention, strategy, and confidence — without burning yourself out or losing your love for flowers.

Redefining Success as a Florist In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 144), we're visiting with Evelyn Krebs, a Swiss florist, shop owner, and creative entrepreneur with nearly three decades of experience in the floral industry. As founder and owner of Stil & Stiele in Zurich, Switzerland, Evelyn shares what 25 years of shop ownership taught her about growth, courage, and building a business that actually supports your life. We talk about her unconventional path—from apprenticing in the late 1990s to owning a long-running flower shop in Zurich, launching a concept-driven retail store, and reimagining what a sustainable, values-aligned floral business can look like. This conversation explores courage, redefining success, and building a business that truly serves your life—not just industry expectations. Whether you're a florist questioning traditional shop hours, dreaming of a different retail model, or simply craving permission to do things your own way, this episode offers thoughtful perspective and real-world insight. Join us as we chat with Evelyn about: her journey into floristry and opening her first flower shop in Zurich using farmers markets as a high-end marketing and client acquisition tool balancing creative work, management, and personal health the impact of staffing, scale, and "growth at all costs" thinking why fewer employees can sometimes mean higher profit and less stress building a second, non-floral concept shop with higher margins and fewer demands flexible staffing models using shared calendars and trust-based systems selling emotion and experience rather than just products redefining success over a long career courage, boundaries, and opting out of the hamster wheel self-service flower shops and retail models in Switzerland Links mentioned in this episode: TimeTree App – Shared scheduling tool Poschtilädeli – Evelyn's second shop Connect with Stil und Stiele: Website Instagram Evelyn's second shop, Poschtilädeli This episode of the Botanical Brouhaha Podcast is brought to you by: BLOOM TRUST CO. A curated collection of floral resources you can trust.  Click here to learn more.   You can find show notes and more episodes of The Botanical Brouhaha Podcast at botanicalbrouhaha.com, and you can find the BB Podcast co-hosts on IG @botanicalbrouhaha and @hey.nataliegill. This episode of The Botanical Brouhaha Podcast was produced by Joel McGee. Original music by Landon McGee.   

How Dems Rig the System. Chicago the Next Minneapolis? Non-binary is About Freedom. Trump Sics FBI on Wash Post. US Troops to Iran? RIP John Forte. Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff has an exclusive first media interview with Lindsay Church—Minority Veterans of America founder, disabled post‑9/11 veteran, queer non-binary parent, and now independent candidate for Congress in Illinois' 4th District. This all-new episode dives into what it means to take on ICE in Chicago, confront a rigged Democratic party primary, and run as an independent veteran in the middle of Trump's escalating war on democracy and the free press.​ Lindsay's campaign is already historic—as they'd be the first non-binary candidate on a federal ballot in American history.  From the streets of Berwyn and Cicero—where ICE raids have become an everyday terror—to the halls of Congress where Lindsay has already helped pass landmark reforms like the PACT Act and the Deborah Sampson Act, this is a raw, unfiltered conversation about power, courage, leadership and accountability. Paul and Lindsay break down the murder of Renee Good in Minneapolis from a combat veteran's perspective, the weaponization of ICE and PTSD, and how this shooting exposes the consequences when discipline and democracy break down.​ You'll hear why Lindsay believes the corrupt Democratic Party machine in IL‑04 “coronated” a successor behind closed doors, how an independent needs more than 10,000 signatures just to get on the ballot, and why they are running for office in the face of hate and danger—because people deserve a real choice in November and a representative who's earned their vote, not inherited it. The episode zooms out to Trump's broader authoritarian overreach—ICE raids, FBI raiding the home of a Washington Post journalist, threats to NATO, escalation toward Iran, Greenland and Venezuela—while Paul also honors the late musician John Forté, celebrates his wife's new independent film “The Florist,” and reminds listeners that from Tehran to Kyiv to Chicago's Southwest Side, hope and resistance are still alive. Because every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories--and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It's independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve--and stay vigilant. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Watch/hear previous appearances on the show by Lindsay - Episode 324 and Episode 177. -Learn more about Lindsay's work at Minority Vets as well as their campaign for Congress here. -Support John Forté's family through GoFundMe here. -Learn more about Paul's work to elect a new generation of independent leaders with Independent Veterans of America. -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch now in time for the new year.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media.  And now part of the BLEAV network!  Ways to listen: Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Amazon Podcasts  Ways to listen: YouTube • Instagram  Social channels: X/Twitter • BlueSky • Facebook  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Moving Your Floral Business Forward When Life Feels ComplicatedLife doesn't pause when you're trying to grow a business — and as florists, we often carry more than most. Family responsibilities, grief, health challenges, world events, financial pressure, and creative burnout don't stop just because we have goals.In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jeni shares a deeply honest conversation about what it really looks like to keep moving your business forward when life feels overwhelming, messy, or outright hard.This episode isn't about hustling through burnout or pretending everything is fine. It's about resilience, alignment, micro-momentum, and designing a business that can support you through real life — not just ideal circumstances.✨ In This Episode, We Talk About:Why “complicated” doesn't have to mean stuckHow the mindset of “I do it anyway” builds long-term successThe danger of letting hard seasons turn into permanent habitsWhy falling off the plan doesn't mean you've failedHow to identify the next best step when motivation is lowUsing micro-momentum to rebuild confidence and consistencyWhy alignment matters more when life feels heavyRedesigning your floral business so it supports you — not drains youLetting go of work that consistently feels wrong, even if others do itWhy resilience is built through systems, habits, and self-trustThe difference between pausing to breathe and quitting altogether

Pull up a chair and join us for the very first episode of The Florist's Table. Host Yvonne Ashton welcomes three past Mayesh Design Stars to discuss Pantone's controversial 2026 Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer. When the announcement dropped, reactions ranged from disappointment to outright mockery (one designer called it "plain toast and deconstructed water"). But is white really that boring, or are we missing something important? Amy Balsters of The Floral Coach breaks down the color theory most of us overlook about white — the difference between warm and cool whites and why it matters in floral design. Jodi Duncan AIFD, creative studio owner and the voice behind that toast comment, shares her initial reaction and whether she's softened her stance. And Abby Chick of Abby Chick Flowers, who correctly predicted both this year's and last year's colors, explains what made her see it coming. We dig into the practical questions: Does Pantone really matter to working florists? How do you make white feel fresh and intentional? What flowers and textures showcase Cloud Dancer's warmth? And if these designers were choosing 2027's color, what would they select? This is The Florist's Table, where the community can gather to talk all things flowers - real conversations for florists who want honest perspectives, practical insights, and maybe a little spice. Featured Guests: Amy Balsters - The Floral Coach, Jodi Duncan AIFD - Creative studio owner Abby Chick - Abby Chick Flowers Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and pull up a chair for every episode. Visit the link for show notes and video podcast: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/three-florists-debate-pantones-cloud-dancer 

In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jen walks you through a simple, real-world way to forecast your floral business revenue—using the bookings you already have (or want) to estimate your average wedding value, close rate, expenses, flower costs, labor, taxes, and ultimately how much you can pay yourself.Whether you're a newer florist or you've been in business for years but still feel unclear about money, this episode gives you a practical framework to stop guessing and start planning like a CEO.What You'll Learn (Key Takeaways)How to calculate your average wedding order value (AOV) so you can forecast incomeHow to use your close rate to estimate how many leads you need to hit your booking goalA simple “CEO math” approach to estimate:Flower/COGS percentagefixed monthly expenses (your “turn the lights on” costs)freelance laborsales tax/tax set-asidesprofit cushionowner payWhy guessing creates scarcity—and why forecasting creates confidenceHow to put this into a spreadsheet so you can make smarter decisions all yearThe Framework Jen Uses (Step-by-Step)1) Start with your funnel numbers (your real booking pipeline)Track these numbers:How many inquiries/leads you receiveHow many you respond to / have real conversations withHow many consults you bookHow many proposals you sendHow many you close (booked + contract signed)Close rate formula:Booked weddings ÷ proposals sent = close rateJen's note:If your close rate is very high, you may be underpriced (you're “too easy to book”).2) Calculate your average wedding value (AOV)Average wedding value formula:Total booked wedding revenue ÷ number of booked weddings = AOVThis gives you a usable “planning number” even if you have a few outliers.3) Forecast income based on your goal number of weddingsIf you want to go from 8 weddings to 20, you need 12 more weddings.Projected revenue formula:(Goal weddings × AOV) = projected gross revenue4) Estimate your cost of goods (flowers + supplies)If you're still learning sourcing/recipes, Jen recommends being conservative:30–35% as a planning range for flower costs (COGS)COGS formula:Projected revenue × COGS % = flower/supply costs5) Subtract fixed “lights-on” business expensesThese are costs like:websiteCanvaQuickBooks/bookkeeping softwareemail platformadmin tools/subscriptionsbusiness renewals/feesvehicle costs (if the business covers them)Fixed costs formula:Monthly fixed expenses × 12 = annual fixed expenses6) Add labor estimates (freelancers)Example logic from the episode:how many weddings need helphow many hours per weddinghourly ratenumber of staff-daysLabor formula:(Hours × rate × number of days/weddings) = labor cost7) Set aside taxes (don't get surprised later)Jen specifically mentions sales tax and recommends setting aside a percentage (often close to 10% in MN depending on location/rate, but use your local rate).Tax set-aside formula:Projected revenue × tax % = tax bucket8) Build profit into the business (a cushion)Profit is not “whatever is left.” It's intentional.Even starting with 5–7% gives you a cushion for growth:cooler purchaseeducationequipmentupgradesemergency bufferProfit formula:Net-after-costs × profit % = profit bucket9) What's left can become owner's compensation (pay yourself)After subtracting:COGSfixed costslabortaxesprofit…the remainder is what you can use to pay yourself (owner's comp), then plan for income taxes/self-employment taxes depending on your setup.Practical Action Steps (Do This This Week)Make a simple spreadsheet with columns for:inquiriesconsultsproposalsbookingsclose rateList your booked weddings and total revenue → calculate your AOVChoose your booking goal (ex: 20 weddings)Forecast gross revenue (goal × AOV)Pick conservative COGS % (30–35% if you're still dialing in recipes)Estimate annual “lights-on” expensesEstimate freelancer laborCreate 3 buckets in your business:tax set-asideprofit cushionowner payReview the final number and ask:“Is this enough for the life I want?”“What needs to change: price, volume, efficiency, or offers?”Mentioned in This EpisodeBook RecommendationProfit First by Mike Michalowicz (Jen's foundational framework for building profit and paying yourself consistently) https://a.co/d/1s9O2mm

Sue and Kendra talked with Shannon Guthrie, florist and co-owner of A WHOLE BUNCH FLOWER MARKET, about this fantastic and genius way to exchange those holiday returns for some beautiful roses!

Luxury floral designer Susan Chambers, owner of San Francisco-based bloominCouture. She's a longtime Slow Flowers member whose high-end residential and corporate clients support her sustainable values, which do not compromise her design aesthetic or her approach to seasonal sourcing. Many of you first met Susan when she and her shop appeared in our 2021 book, […] The post Episode 750: Susan Chambers of San Francisco-based bloominCouture – a luxury florist designs with seasonal and local flowers appeared first on Slow Flowers Podcast with Debra Prinzing.

Have your New Year's resolutions already fallen apart — and it's only January 7?You're not broken. You don't lack discipline. You don't need a new year.You need a new approach.In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jen breaks down why “going all-in” doesn't work, why motivation fades fast, and how micro momentum is the missing piece between setting goals and actually achieving them.This episode is about building sustainable success, not burning yourself out by February.✨ What We Cover in This EpisodeWhy Most Goals FailCommon mistakes that sabotage your goals:Trying to change everything at onceSetting vague goals (“be more successful,” “network more”)Relying on motivation instead of structureOverestimating what can change in 30 daysUnderestimating the power of consistency over timeGoing all-in often looks productive — but it's usually just overwhelm in disguise.The Real Timeline of ChangeIf you've ever felt discouraged, this will reframe everything:Habit change: 60–100 daysLifestyle change: 12–18 monthsIdentity change: 3–4 yearsTrue transformation happens in layers — not overnight.Micro Momentum: The Missing LinkMicro momentum is about:Breaking goals into digestible actionsReducing overwhelmBuilding trust with yourselfCreating progress even on chaotic daysSmall wins compound into big change — especially when life is busy.Real-Life Examples of Micro MomentumJen shares personal examples including:How she went from hating workouts to identifying as someone who loves movementWhy starting small created long-term identity changeHow to apply micro momentum to business goals like:NetworkingLaunching à la carte floralsCEO daysSystems + financesMarketing consistencyHow to Make Goals Actually HappenYou'll learn how to:Get specific with your goalsCreate clear deliverablesBuild buffers so life doesn't derail youReduce decision fatigue by planning aheadUse the Rule of 3:One business goalOne personal goalOne health/energy goalAnd just as important — what to remove from your plate to create space.Identity-Based Goal SettingInstead of asking “What do I want?” ask:Who do I want to become?What does that version of me do on a random Tuesday?What does she stop tolerating?Shift from:“I want to…”to“I am becoming someone who…”Sustainability Over HustleIf your goals require burnout to achieve them — they're not the right goals.This episode reinforces:Alignment over urgencySystems over willpowerProgress over perfectionTry This: 24-Hour Micro Momentum ChallengePick one goal you've been avoidingSet a 5-minute timerDo one tiny stepStopCelebrateMomentum starts with starting.

Today's episode features a takeover of our popular weekly live Q&A session on Instagram, with featured guest Ellen Frost of Local Color Flowers in Baltimore, MD. Ellen is a floral designer who creates exclusively with flowers and foliage purchased from local growers. She is also one of our course instructors here at The Gardener's Workshop. In this Q&A, Ellen highlights the need for understanding florists' requirements, offers flower recommendations, and addresses challenges in winter sourcing. She emphasizes visual marketing and the power of storytelling to connect with others in the flower industry.Mentions⁠⁠Ellen's newsletter signup⁠⁠⁠FlowerMore Community⁠Connect with Ellen: ⁠⁠⁠Ellen Frost Flowers (Instagram)⁠⁠,⁠ ⁠⁠Website⁠ Ellen Online Courses: ⁠Florist School Online⁠, ⁠Preparing to Sell to Florists⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Field and Garden Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Cut Flower Handbook, Vegetables Love Flowers, and Cool Flowers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, owner of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Gardener's Workshop,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Flower Farming School Online,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and the publisher of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Farmer-Florist School Online⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Florist School Online.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lisa's Story⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and connect with Lisa on social media!

Pre-Order Flowers Bloom Anyway: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flowers-bloom-anyway-a-memoir-liz-fiedler-mergen/1148638651?ean=9781636989273In this episode of Rooted Agritourism, Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow in Central Minnesota, reflects on the highs and lows of 2025. She discusses setting measurable goals, navigating challenges, and enduring personal hardships, including infertility and community opposition to her business. Dr. Mergen provides insights into the grit required to build a thriving agritourism venture and announces exciting upcoming projects like the Farmers to Florist app and her soon-to-be-published book. She emphasizes the importance of slow, sustained effort and resilience in achieving long-term success.00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism00:19 Reflecting on 2025: Achievements and Challenges02:28 Building a Thriving Business: The Journey06:46 Overcoming Community Challenges08:46 Exciting Plans for 202611:39 Upcoming Goals and Final ThoughtsSave $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Jen announces her three upcoming floral workshops for the year: The Installation Rockstar Intensive on March 10-11 in St. Paul, Minnesota, featuring hands-on portfolio building with an 'Old Hollywood Glamour' theme. The Business Bouquets and Branding Workshop on April 26-28 at her family farm in Denison, Minnesota, focusing on business development and branding photography; and the Floral Rockstar Retreat on August 16-18, also at her farm, offering a relaxing yet educational experience with activities like flower arranging, glamping, yoga, and more. Each workshop includes professional photo shoots, with opportunities for portfolio building and social media content creation. Early bird pricing and payment plans are available.

Send us a textHappy New Year, Freshies!!!  On this special 2026 New Year's episode of The Fresh Bunch, Jimi the Tulip, Mimi, and Ryan ring in the New Year with the help of a few of our favorite Freshies. Starting with Holly Haverman of Kennedy Flowers, on her 2nd year designing at the Rose Bowl Parade. Then we called in the big guns for some 2026 fresh perspective from Lori Wilson of the Flower Clique, and author and motivational speaker, Barry "The Goat" Gottlieb.  Plus, wisdom from Cameron "Positive Pappy" Papas of Norton's Florist, and a brief 2026 trends report from Juliana Bustilo of Ora Agency. We wind the episode down with Jet Fresh's top 10 products and rose varieties of 2026, and a final farewell to 2025 with Mike.Enjoy and Happy New Year!

Toni Garner is the daughter of a Cherokee educator and a first-generation Lebanese homemaker. Having grown up with flower shops on both sides of the family, she learned the ins and outs of the trade from her grandmother and her aunt.Toni graduated from Northeastern State University and opened Toni's Flowers & Gifts in Tulsa in 1983 when she was 26 years old.Toni was one of a hundred floral designers invited to do the inaugural flowers for George W. Bush's second term. Locally, she has given her time and resources to many community organizations, non-profits, museums, and universities. She and her good friend, Charles Faudree,  published a book titled Country French Florals and Interiors. Listen to Toni talk about the challenges of Valentine's Day, her friendship with Charles Faudree and Pat Gordon, and the story behind “Merry Christmas Anyway” on the podcast and website of VoicesOfOklahoma.com.

Life + Business Audit: How to Create Clarity, Alignment, and Sustainable GrowthAs the year winds down, it's easy to feel reflective, overwhelmed, or unsure of what needs to change next. In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jeni walks you through a powerful life and business audit designed to help you gain clarity, reduce burnout, and intentionally shape the next chapter of your business and life.This isn't about judgment, shame, or “fixing” yourself.It's about seeing clearly, reclaiming your energy, and choosing alignment over chaos.Why a Life + Business Audit MattersYour business does not exist in a vacuum.If your life feels heavy, chaotic, or unsupported, your business will eventually reflect that.In this episode, Jeni shares why:Your business cannot “save” your lifeMoney alone doesn't fix misalignmentSustainable success starts with clarity, boundaries, and honest reflectionThis audit helps you step out of reaction mode and into intentional CEO leadership.Part 1: Where Are You Right Now?1. Energy AuditTake an honest look at where your energy is going — and where it's being drained.Rate each area on a scale of 1–10:WorkdaysClient interactionsCreative workHome lifeMental loadPhysical energyAnything consistently under a 5 deserves attention — not guilt.2. Time AuditAsk yourself:Where is my time actually going?What feels busy vs. what moves the needle?How much of my time is reactive vs. intentional?Break your time into categories:Revenue-producing workAdmin / busyworkMarketingFamily & personal lifeScrolling / numbingRest (real rest)Then ask:Is my time aligned with my priorities — or just my habits?3. Money AuditThis is where many business owners avoid looking — and where clarity is most powerful.Reflect on:What did I actually pay myself?What parts of my business are profitable?What looks “successful” but pays terribly?Where am I leaking money (including time)?Ask the big question:Am I building a business that supports my life — or one that requires sacrifice without return?Part 2: What's Not Working Anymore?4. Tolerance AuditFinish these sentences honestly:“I'm tolerating __________.”“I keep putting up with __________.”“I know this isn't working, but I haven't changed it.”What we tolerate becomes our standard.5. Alignment AuditAsk yourself:Does my business reflect who I am now — or who I used to be?If I built this business today, would I build it the same way?Is my business aligned with my values, family life, health, creativity, and nervous system?Small misalignments add up over time.6. Identity AuditShift from:“I'm trying to…”to“I am someone who…”Ask:Who have I been acting like I am?Who do I want to become?What does that version of me say yes to?What does she stop doing?Identity shifts drive behavior change.Part 3: What Needs to Change?7. Subtraction Before AdditionBefore adding anything new, ask:What can I remove?What can I simplify?What am I done tolerating?Growth doesn't always mean more — often it means less, done better.8. Focus Audit: The 3–Thing RuleChoose:3 business priorities3 life prioritiesAsk:If I focused only on these, would my life and business improve?Everything else can pause, be delegated, or simplified.9. Support AuditYou are not meant to do this alone.Ask:Where do I need support?What am I carrying that isn't mine?Who helps me think bigger?Who holds me accountable?Support might look like systems, boundaries, therapy, coaching, or community.Part 4: How Do You Move Forward?10. Micro-Momentum PlanningInstead of fixing everything, ask:What's one 15-minute change I can make this week?One boundary I can set?One system I can tighten?Small shifts create big identity changes.11. Future You Check-InAsk:What will future me thank me for changing now?What would make next year feel lighter?Your body often knows before your mind does.12. Decision Filter Going ForwardEvery opportunity should pass through:Does this align with my values?Does this support my energy?Does this move me toward my goals?Am I saying yes out of fear or intention?If it's not a clear yes, it's a no or not right now.Final ThoughtsYou are allowed to:Change your mindWant something differentBuild a business that feels good and pays you wellChoose alignment over hustleYour life matters just as much as your business.Join the Goal Planning Party

Episode Title26 Things Every Florist Should Do Going Into 2026Episode Description2026 doesn't need to be new year, new chaos.In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, I'm walking you through 26 intentional, strategic things every florist should consider before heading into 2026 — from money and marketing to energy, systems, and alignment.This isn't about doing more.It's about doing what actually works — with clarity, profitability, and ease.You don't need to tackle all 26 at once. But you do need to stop drifting into another year without intention.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeIn this episode, we cover:How to reflect on 2025 without judgment — just data and clarityWhat to cut, simplify, or stop doing in your floral businessHow to realign your pricing, profit, and payWhere your time and energy are actually going (and if it's worth it)How to market smarter — not louderWhy alignment matters more than hustle heading into 2026How to choose growth that supports your life, not drains itThe 26 Things Every Florist Should Do Going Into 2026Reflect & RecalibrateReview what actually made you money in 2025Identify what drained your energy the mostDecide what you're no longer available forLook at your average order valueIdentify your most profitable client typeAudit how you truly spend your timeMoney & Profit (CEO Energy)Decide how much you want to pay yourself in 2026Separate business money and personal moneyStop using deposits to fund your lifeReview pricing that no longer worksBuild profit into pricing — not leftoversDecide what “enough” actually looks like financiallyMarketing & VisibilityChoose three marketing priorities (not ten)Choose consistency over perfectionMake your email address easy to findDecide what you want planners to see you asCreate evergreen content you can reuseDecide where you'll stop marketingSystems, Time & SustainabilitySimplify your offersBuild a 10-minute daily marketing habitCreate micro-momentum tasks for busy daysIdentify one system that needs tighteningGrowth, Identity & VisionDecide who you're becoming as a Floral CEOSay your goals out loudBuild accountability into your yearChoose alignment over hustleKey TakeawayYou don't need to overhaul your entire business overnight.But choosing even 3 things from this list — and actually following through — can completely change how 2026 feels.Clarity compounds.Alignment compounds.And intentional decisions always outperform hustle.Join the 2026 Goal Planning Party

As the year comes to a close, it's natural to start dreaming about what's next. But for many florists, 2025 didn't feel expansive or inspiring — it felt like survival.In this episode, Jen dives into what it really means to move from surviving to thriving in 2026. Not through hustle, burnout, or “new year, new me” energy — but through intention, reflection, boundaries, and strategic decisions that support both your life and your business.If you've felt exhausted, reactive, underpaid, creatively drained, or stuck in constant overwhelm, this episode is for you.In This Episode, We Cover:Why survival mode isn't failure — and why so many florists normalize burnoutThe physical, emotional, and creative cost of staying in survival too longHow margin (in time, money, and energy) completely changes your nervous systemWhy being “busy” isn't a badge of honor — and what it's actually costing youThe connection between your personal life and business growthHow thriving starts with alignment, not doing moreThe 5-Step Shift from Surviving to Thriving in 2026Acknowledge Survival Without ShameSurvival mode is a response — not a personal failure. Many florists are surviving because they're caregiving, rebuilding, healing, or simply carrying too much. Honor what got you here — and allow yourself to want more.Identify What's Keeping You StuckLow-margin work, undercharging, saying yes out of fear, lack of systems, inconsistent pay, and constant reactivity all keep you trapped. You can't change what you won't name.Redefine What Thriving Means to YouThriving isn't nonstop work or booking everything. It's calm, predictable income, creative joy, clear boundaries, support, and a business that gives back to your life — not one that drains it.Make Small, Strategic ShiftsThis isn't about burning everything down. Simplify your offers. Raise prices intentionally. Build planner relationships. Create systems. Focus on micro momentum — small actions that compound into real change.Decide That 2026 Will Be DifferentA new year doesn't create change — decisions do. Thriving requires intention, structure, and support. You don't have to do it alone, but you do have to choose it.Reflection Questions to Sit With:What parts of my business drain me the most?What actually makes me the most money?Where am I over-giving or saying yes out of fear?What am I no longer willing to tolerate in 2026?What would thriving feel like — not just look like?Want Support Creating a Different 2026?Jen is hosting a Goal Planning Party on January 5th at 1:00 PM CST, where you'll:Reflect on what worked (and didn't) in 2025Clarify what stays, what goes, and what gets simplifiedDesign goals that support your life and your businessConnect with other florists who are ready to grow with intentionYou'll receive a guided goal-planning worksheet and live support to help you start the year grounded and clear — not reactive and overwhelmed.

As the year winds down and the holidays approach, it's natural to start thinking about what's next—next year, next season, and the next version of your business and life. In this episode of the Floral CEO Podcast, Jeni reframes the idea of manifestation in a way that actually works for business owners.If the word manifesting makes you roll your eyes or feel skeptical, this episode is for you.Because manifestation isn't about wishful thinking—it's about clarity, intention, structure, strategy, and consistent action.

As the year comes to a close, it's tempting to rush straight into goal setting, vision boards, and big plans for the new year. But in this episode of the Floral CEO Podcast, Jeni challenges that approach and invites florists to do something far more powerful first: reflect.This episode is all about how intentional end-of-year reflection can help you build a floral business that is not only more profitable—but also more sustainable, aligned, and fulfilling.If you're a florist who feels stretched thin, stuck in survival mode, or unsure what to focus on next, this episode will help you slow down, assess what truly worked in your business, and make smarter decisions for 2026.

Do you feel like you're constantly waiting for the “perfect time” to finally sit down and work on your big business ideas? Welcome to the club, flower friend — because almost every florist I coach thinks they need huge blocks of uninterrupted time to build momentum.But here's the truth: your life will probably never give you endless hours of quiet, focused time…And you don't need it.In today's minisode, we're diving into Micro Momentum — the simple, doable, wildly effective approach that has helped me build my businesses, stay consistent, and keep moving forward even during the busiest, messiest seasons of life.Whether you're a florist, a mother, running multiple businesses, navigating neurodivergence, or simply overwhelmed by your to-do list — micro momentum is how you create progress right now, not someday.

In today's episode, Jeni gets real about one of the least talked about but most important topics in the floral industry: paying yourself.So many florists are creating beautiful work, serving their couples like magic… and quietly paying themselves almost nothing.This episode breaks down why that happens, how to shift it, and the exact framework (Profit First) Jeni uses to make sure florists are paid fairly and consistently.Whether you're a new florist still feeling “grateful to be chosen” or a seasoned designer carrying years of undercharging, these strategies will help you build a business that actually supports your life — not drains it.

If you've ever wondered how florists actually get in with wedding planners, this mini episode is going to change the way you think about networking forever. Today, Jeni breaks down the fastest, simplest, zero-salesy strategy to get on a planner's radar — and it's something you can do in less than five minutes a day.Wedding planners are one of the most powerful referral sources you can have as a floral designer. They work with dream clients, they influence design decisions, and they often book 15–50 events per year. But many florists hesitate to reach out because they fear being judged, ignored, or coming off as too “salesy.”This episode is your reminder that you are providing a service their clients actively need. You're not selling a gimmick — you're offering a solution.And the simplest way to start building that relationship?Thoughtful, consistent engagement on their content.Not emojis. Not spammy comments. Not cold DMs.Just genuine, human interaction that helps you stand out in a crowded industry.Jeni walks you through:✨ Why engagement works better than pitching✨ The exact steps to thoughtfully interact with planners online✨ How the algorithm can actually work for you✨ What familiarity and name recognition can do to accelerate trust✨ Why this strategy mirrors real-life networking (but is way less awkward)You'll leave this episode with a clear, doable action step that builds what Jeni calls micro-momentum — tiny daily actions that snowball into real relationships and real bookings.

When Michael Jacobson took over his uncle's barely-profitable flower shop in 2018, many saw a sinking business — he saw potential. Through a mix of technology, obsessive customer care, and operational discipline, he turned what was doing roughly $600K a year into a $9.5M+ powerhouse. Today, French Florist isn't just surviving — it's preparing to scale nationally through franchise expansion. In this episode, Michael walks us through the behind-the-scenes rebuild: from modernizing outdated systems, rethinking margins, and making flowers a product people rely on, to proving that even a flower shop can be built like a high-growth business. Make sure to check out French Florist at https://www.frenchflorist.com/   Check out my new book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4kRKGTX Register for Starting Small Summit 2026: https://startingsmallmedia.org/startingsmallsummit Watch our mini-doc - Starting Small: The Raw Truth Behind Entrepreneurship and the American Dream: https://youtu.be/eHuq93wIxs0?si=eDB-ycngvWNapRLO Visit Starting Small Media: https://startingsmallmedia.org/ Subscribe to exclusive Starting Small emails: https://startingsmallmedia.org/newsletter-signup   Follow Starting Small: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingsmallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Startingsmallpod/?modal=admin_todo_tour LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/cameronnagle   Thank you to this episodes mid-break sponsor, Suri. a sleek, travel-friendly sonic brush that delivers 33,000 vibrations a minute for a deep clean, has plant-based heads you can recycle for free, and now comes with a UV-C charging case that wipes out 99.9% of bacteria at the touch of a button. Brush better. Help the planet. And skip the landfill guilty-conscience — because SURI treats your teeth like the everyday essential they are. Explore it now at https://www.trysuri.com/en-us