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In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jen breaks down how to truly maximize your ROI from styled shoots — so your time, flowers, and creativity actually lead to booked weddings and stronger industry relationships.Using real-world examples from two Minnesota venues (including her favorite, Essence Event Center), Jen shares exactly how she approaches styled shoots strategically — turning them into open houses that build vendor connections, attract ideal clients, and generate lasting content for your portfolio.Whether you're a florist just starting to collaborate with venues or a seasoned designer looking to refine your approach, this episode will help you stop saying yes to unpaid, unstrategic shoots — and start saying yes to smart exposure that grows your business.
Sarah Campbell isn't just known for magnificent floral designs and installations but also for always smiling! After appearing on the Netflix show 'The Big Flower Fight', Sarah has grown her event design business along with teaching the art of creating flower filled weddings all over the world. We can definitely say that Sarah is OBSESSED with flowers! Ellen Mary asks all the floral questions in this episode from top design tips, to must use flowers and behind the scenes gossip from show. Check out Intrigue Designs and Intrigue Teaches: Instagram: @intrigue_designs @intrigueteaches Website: www.intrigueteaches.com Series 19 is sponsored by Queen & Fine, the new floral design studio created by co-host Ellen Mary! From fabulous one off bouquets to weddings, events, offices and installations. Check out the website: www.queenandfine.com and on Instagram @queenandfine
Do you ever feel like you're working constantly but not really moving the needle in your business? You're not alone, flower friend. In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jen opens up about her own struggles with feeling “stuck,” what it really means to make invisible progress, and how to give yourself both grace and grit as you build a sustainable, purpose-driven floral business.Whether you're running your studio full-time or hustling during nap time, this episode will help you reframe how you see success — and remind you that consistency, not perfection, is what creates real growth.
Perfectionism might feel like high standards — but for most florists, it's really fear in disguise. In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jen breaks down how perfectionism shows up in your business, why it's keeping you stuck, and how to shift into imperfect, profitable action.If you've ever caught yourself saying, “I'll launch when…” or “I'll post when it's perfect,” this episode is your permission slip to stop waiting for the stars to align. You don't need perfect branding, timing, or systems to grow — you just need the courage to take one imperfect step today.
THE DOOMED AND STONED SHOW ~Season 11, Episode 7~ In this episode, we say goodbye to summer, with a review of the July and August Doom Charts rankings from DoomCharts.com. Featuring hosts Billy Goate (DoomedandStoned.com), John Gist (Vegas Rock Revolution), and Bucky Brown! INTRO (00:00) 1. Skulldozer - "Bloody Ground" (00:31) HOST SEGMENT I - Wild Card Round #1 (07:04) 2. Mezzoa - "Hard To Hear" (35:09) 3. Ever Age - "Black Suede" (38:07) 4. Ivy Gardens - "Eye Witness" (41:14) HOST SEGMENT II - Wild Card Round #2 (44:04) 5. I Am Low - "Greed" (1:03:16) 6. Black Water Rising - "Jokes On You" (1:08:21) 7. Maanta Raay - "The Night Rider" (1:12:35) HOST SEGMENT III - Wild Card Round #3 (1:19:53) 8. The Big Rip - "Kaktus" (1:39:56) 9. Bask - "Dig My Heels" (1:45:02) 10. Toilet Snake - "Back From The Sewers" (1:50:35) HOST SEGMENT IV - July Top 5 (1:54:07) 11. Foot - "Walking Into Walls All Week" (2:15:30) 12. Hebi Katana - "Dead Horse Requiem" (2:19:46) 13. Gaupa - "Elastic Sleep" (2:24:06) 14. Sheev - "Henry" (2:32:16) 15. Margarita Witch Cult - "Witches Candle" (2:37:50) HOST SEGMENT V - August Top 5 (2:40:28) 16. Tar Pit - "Coven Vespers" (3:18:23) 17. Crop - "Goddamn" (3:21:54) 18. HÖG - 'Blackhole" (3:28:31) 19. Supernaughty - "Apocalypso" (3:33:10) 20. Borracho - "Vegas Baby" (3:37:19) OUTRO (3:43:23) BONUS TRACKS: 21. Florist - "Another Moon" (3:44:31) 22. Seedy Jeezus - "Mourning Sea, Pt. 3" (3:50:41) 23. Grin - "Incantation" (3:54:29) 24. Atom Juice - "Hercules" (3:58:24) 25. Good Spirits - "Smoke & Mirrors" (4:01:51) Show Credits: Intro/Outro music: Dylan Tucker Thumbnail art: Ben House/Skulldozer
Hello flower friends! In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, I'm thrilled to sit down with Luis from Jo.An Floral Design in Texas. If you've been on Instagram lately, you've probably seen one of his charming videos — from creating stunning bouquets to giving us an honest behind-the-scenes look at floral business life.Luis shares his journey into floristry, the story behind Joanne Floral Design, and how he's built a recognizable and authentic brand. We talk about the challenges of starting and scaling a business, the importance of knowing your worth as a florist, and how social media has helped him connect with clients in new ways.Whether you're a new florist or a seasoned designer, this conversation is packed with inspiration, encouragement, and real talk about what it takes to run a floral business.About Luis:Hey there my name is Luis,I fell in love with flowers at the age of 16 and since then I've never stopped designing. Learning from the Japanese I traveled to Guam,Japan and LA executing wedding.My style is a mix of contemporary American paired the technical precision of Japanese floristry.A family man at heart but a floral designer to my core.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How Luis got started in floristry and built Jo.An Floral DesignThe role of family and personal history in shaping his brandSocial media strategies that have helped him grow visibility and trustThe importance of setting minimums and pricing for profitabilityLessons on working with planners, venues, and clientsWhy authenticity is key in both design and business growthIf you loved this conversation with Luis, be sure to follow him on Instagram at @jo.anfloraldesignfor daily inspiration.And if you're ready to grow your own floral business with confidence, join me inside the Floral CEO Mastermind — where you'll get the systems, templates, and coaching you need to thrive. Floralceo.com/mastermind
Growing a floral business to $100K can feel like climbing a mountain — but it doesn't have to. In this episode of The Floral Hustle Podcast, I'm breaking down the five most common mistakes florists make when trying to hit that first $100K milestone — and how to avoid them.Whether you're a wedding florist, a studio florist, or a shop owner, these tips will help you simplify your business, increase profitability, and stop feeling overwhelmed.Here's what we cover in this episode:Trying to Do Everything YourselfWhy solopreneurs get stuck, how to create space in your business, and what to outsource first to prevent burnout.Underpricing Your WorkHow to price using a simple framework, stop discounting just to “get the job,” and ensure you actually make a profit on every event.Not Having a Marketing PlanWhy relying on word-of-mouth isn't enough and how to create simple, repeatable marketing actions that keep your calendar full.Skipping Systems and ProcessesThe three systems that took me to $100K and how you can streamline your proposals, ordering, and client communication.Treating Your Business Like a Side HustleHow to step into the CEO role, set priorities, and take a 10,000-foot view of your business to break through income ceilings.If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels, make more money, and finally grow your floral business, this episode is your roadmap.Call to Action:Ready to put these strategies into action? In October inside The Floral CEO Mastermind, we're focusing on building your email playbook — the exact templates I use to book more weddings, communicate with planners, and save hours every week. You also get my contract templates, proposal templates, and over 80+ videos of business coaching and design education — plus live group and 1:1 coaching with me.Join us today at http://FloralCEO.com/mastermind and let's grow your business together.
Hello flower friends!
Hello flower friends!
Pricing doesn't have to be confusing or overwhelming. In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jeni shares how to simplify floral pricing by using base recipes and formulas you can rely on for every wedding and event.Whether you're a wedding florist or event designer, this episode will help you:
Hello, flower friends!
In our first hour this Wednesday, we tell you the "Top Things" that you need to know today, and we air the first half of our conversation with former White House Chief Florist Laura Dowling. . . .
Hello flower friends!
Hello flower friends!In this week's episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome back my friend Franceska from The Hotel Florist™. If you've been anywhere near the floral world on Instagram, you've probably seen her work or heard her wisdom on how florists can move beyond weddings and create consistent, sustainable income.Franceska specializes in helping florists secure hotel partnerships that open the door to luxury corporate clients, recurring income, and long-term stability. Together, we dive into:✨ Why florists should consider diversifying beyond weddings ✨ How hotel partnerships can be a game-changer for consistent cash flow ✨ What it really means to put profit first in your business ✨ The mindset shift that happens when you start investing in yourself ✨ Practical steps to attract luxury clients who value your artistryThis episode is full of juicy, actionable advice for florists who are ready to stop chasing “one-off” gigs and start building a business that supports their life, creativity, and financial goals.Resources & Links Mentioned
Tired of working six days a week, chasing one-off weddings, and feeling trapped in the seasonal ups and downs of the event floral world? This episode is your roadmap to freedom. Host Yvonne Ashton sits down with Franceska McCaughan, international floral strategist and founder of The Hotel Florist®, who has revolutionized how florists think about sustainable income. From her beginnings in foster care to building a floral empire serving luxury hotels across three continents, Franceska's story proves that complete business reinvention is possible—no matter where you start. In this episode, you'll discover: How to break free from the wedding-only cycle that's keeping you stuck The key difference between being profitable and just being busy Franceska's proven strategies for creating recurring revenue streams Why hotels are the untapped goldmine most florists are missing How to scale your business beyond your own physical limitations The mindset shifts that prevent burnout and build long-term sustainability Real strategies from the Hotel Florist® Profit Method that have helped florists generate over $8 million in contracts Whether you're a seasoned florist feeling burned out or just starting to think beyond weddings, this conversation will completely shift how you approach building a sustainable floral business. Franceska shares practical, proven methods that are working right now for florists around the globe—this isn't just theory, it's a blueprint for transformation. About Franceska McCaughan: Franceska McCaughan is an international floral strategist, hospitality consultant, and the visionary behind The Hotel Florist®. She has helped florists worldwide generate over $8 million in hotel floral contracts and consults with luxury brands on floral strategy. A multiple business founder, best-selling author, and survivor-turned-thought-leader, Franceska is passionate about helping creatives build profitable, purpose-driven businesses without burning out. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Mornings with Mayesh wherever you listen to podcasts! Show notes, photos, and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/hotel-contracts-building-recurring-revenue-florists
Rejection hurts—we all know it. Whether it's losing a wedding client to another florist, getting ghosted after pouring hours into a proposal, or even receiving a harsh review, rejection can feel like a personal attack. But here's the truth: rejection is not the end—it's simply redirection.In this minisode of the Floral CEO Podcast, I share how to reframe rejection so it no longer defines your self-worth or stalls your momentum. With over 1,700 weddings under my belt, I've faced more “no's” than I can count—and each one helped refine my business and strengthen my resilience.You'll learn how to:✨ Normalize rejection as a natural part of growth.✨ Separate yourself from the outcome.✨ Turn rejection into redirection and hidden feedback.✨ Build resilience like a muscle—recover quickly and get back to showing up.✨ Anchor rejection back to your WHY so you can keep moving forward with confidence.Rejection isn't proof that you're failing—it's proof that you're showing up. Every “no” gets you closer to the right “yes.”
In a shop filled with colorful, vibrant life and memories, Jordyn Christopherson brings generations of care to every stem and bloom. At the North Liberty Flower Shop, she carries forward the Sueppel legacy. From local regulars to our own mayor, she knows the names—and the needs—of the people who walk through her doors. North Liberty is the headquarters of local media, regional financial and national transportation companies and home to solar energy and tech startups, and entrepreneurs getting their big ideas off the ground. Get to know your new business community.
Are you trying to do all the things in your floral business—pop-ups, bloom bars, weddings, freelancing, silk flowers, workshops, daily deliveries, hotel contracts, corporate events—and still wondering why you're exhausted and not profitable? You're not alone.In this episode of the Floral CEO Podcast, I'm diving into the shiny-object syndrome that so many florists fall into, and how to shift your energy into what actually moves the needle. I've done it all myself—retail shops, mall kiosks, workshops, luxury weddings, silk rentals, corporate installs—you name it, I've tried it. And I've learned the hard way that when you try to do everything, you don't do anything really well.✨ Here's what we cover in this episode:Why equal energy exchange is critical in your business (and how to recognize when it's missing)A simple 3-part framework to evaluate what's working, what's sort of working, and what isn't workingHow to calculate your effective hourly rate so you stop working for penniesThe role of time, profitability, and alignment in making smarter CEO-level decisionsWhy tracking your effort vs. revenue percentage can uncover major roadblocksHow to set boundaries around tasks or services that drain your energy (like deliveries or funeral work)Real-world examples from the Floral CEO Mastermind where florists shifted focus and saw incredible growth
Crafting floral masterpieces that disappear within hours, dealing with the eccentricities of wealthy clients, and making 3am runs to the flower market with Paul Hawkins, a floral decorator in England. Why is it a no-no to mix red and white flowers? And what's it like to design floral decorations for royalty?You can see some of Paul's work on his Instagram page.WANT MORE EPISODE SUGGESTIONS? Grab our What It's Like To Be... "starter pack". It's a curated Spotify playlist with some essential episodes from our back catalogue. GOT A COMMENT OR SUGGESTION? Email us at jobs@whatitslike.com FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: Email us at partnerships@whatitslike.com WANT TO BE ON THE SHOW? Leave us a voicemail at (919) 213-0456. We'll ask you to answer two questions: 1. What's a word or phrase that only someone from your profession would be likely to know and what does it mean? 2. What's a specific story you tell your friends that happened on the job? It could be funny, sad, anxiety-making, pride-inducing or otherwise. We can't respond to every message, but we do listen to all of them! We'll follow up if it's a good fit.
n this episode of Dish the Dirt, I sit down with Sarah from Quail Cottage and Ash, wedding florist Film and Foliage and founder of Wildflower Academy, to talk about The Harvest—a collection point that's transforming the way florists and growers connect in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle region.We dive into how a simple idea—bringing growers together under one roof—has grown into a supportive community that's making local flowers more accessible, profitable, and sustainable. From collaborative crop planning to navigating pricing, mentoring new growers, and strengthening relationships between florists and farmers, Sarah and Ash share the challenges, wins, and unexpected joys of starting The Harvest.What You'll Hear in This Episode:Sarah's journey from a packet of zinnia seeds to a thriving micro flower farm.Ash's path from weddings to coaching florists and championing local flowers.The origin story of The Harvest—how convenience sparked community.Why visual ordering platforms like Floralist are game-changing for florists.The importance of collaboration over competition in small-scale flower growing.How The Harvest is helping growers become more strategic, profitable, and connected.Environmental and creative impacts of choosing locally grown blooms.Practical advice for anyone wanting to set up a similar model in their own community.Links & Resources Mentioned:Quail Cottage (Sarah's flower farm) @quayle.cottageFilm and Foliage (Ash's Floristry Business) @filmandfoliageFloralist platform✨ If you've ever dreamed of creating stronger connections between florists and growers—or are curious about how local flower collectives work—this episode is full of insight and inspiration.
Hello flower friends!
In this episode of How To Ride A Roller Coaster, David sits down with Michael Jacobson, CEO of French Florist, to dive into his incredible journey from buying the company from his uncle to transforming it into one of the most recognized names in the floral industry.Michael shares how he jumpstarted growth by tackling the “low-hanging fruit” first—stopping the bleeding, fixing operational inefficiencies, and implementing policies that set the foundation for long-term success. He also reveals how French Florist stands out in a crowded market by obsessing over the customer experience and embracing a European-inspired approach to flowers: they shouldn't be reserved for special occasions—they're for everyday moments.Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative, or someone passionate about building standout brands, this episode is packed with insights on leadership, scaling, and redefining industry norms.
Send us a textThis week on The Fresh Bunch Podcast, we're joined by David Mitchell, President of Mitchell's Florist & Flower Delivery — a family-owned shop that's been blooming in Chicago's southwest suburbs for more than 50 years. From humble beginnings in a converted farmhouse to becoming a floral staple in Orland Park and Hinsdale, Mitchell's story is one of tradition, resilience, and reinvention.David opens up about what it's really like running a multi-generational flower shop — the joy, the pressure, and yes, even the occasional funeral order with a mobster punchline. We dive into the realities of navigating tariffs in floral buying, the underrated power of standing orders, and why practicing gratitude is essential in the fast-paced world of events.You'll also hear about David's leadership within the Society of American Florists, his behind-the-scenes perspective on the Outstanding Varieties Competition, and — because no Chicago story is complete without it — a very important debate on Italian beef.This episode is packed with heart, humor, and honesty. You won't want to miss it.https://www.instagram.com/mitchellsflowers/https://safnow.org/outstanding-varieties-competition/
I truly love learning about the floral journeys that so many of our members have taken to arrive at a life immersed in flower growing, floral design, or both. For Colleen Raney, the path began when she and her husband were professional musicians. Colleen's decades-long career as a celebrated Irish singer took her around the […] The post Episode 730: Meet farmer-florist Colleen Raney of Diadem Flowers as we discuss her new project, Songbird Seed Co., specializing in hard-to-find British sweet pea seeds and more appeared first on Slow Flowers Podcast with Debra Prinzing.
Hello flower friends, this is Jen! In today's episode, I'm talking about a topic that so many florists struggle with—social media overwhelm. Instagram and Facebook often feel like a time-sucking monster in your business. You log in with the best intentions… and suddenly you're lost in cat videos, farm reels, or comparing yourself to other florists. Sound familiar?The truth is, your social media doesn't have to feel heavy. You can create simple systems that put your marketing on autopilot—helping you stay consistent, visible, and connected to your dream clients without wasting hours online.In this episode, I share practical strategies to simplify your social media: from scheduling tools and content pillars to creating evergreen graphics that sell your services again and again. By the end, you'll feel empowered to take control of your Instagram and finally free up time for what you love most—designing flowers.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy scheduling tools are your secret weapon (and which ones I recommend)How batching content saves you hours each weekWhat “content pillars” are—and why they create consistency and strategyThe power of evergreen content (and how to set it up once and use it forever)How to audit your Instagram profile so it instantly tells clients who you are, what you do, and where you're locatedPerfect For:Florists and creative business owners who want to:Stay visible online without being chained to their phoneCreate a clear, engaging social media presenceAttract more clients through consistent contentSimplify marketing and reclaim valuable time✨ If you're ready to stop dreading social media and start using it as a tool for growth, this episode will show you exactly how to do it.
Do you ever walk out of the wholesaler with way more flowers than you budgeted for? Or find yourself adding “just a few extra stems” because you want your work to look next-level amazing? If so, you're not alone. In this minisode of The Floral CEO Podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain on a topic that came directly from a recent coaching call inside the Floral CEO Mastermind: overspending.Overspending is one of the most common reasons florists struggle with profitability — and the truth is, it's rarely just about flowers. Sometimes it's about ego, validation, or fear of not being “enough.” In this episode, I'll help you uncover the root causes, set boundaries with your budgets, and create systems that protect your profits without stifling your creativity.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The subconscious reasons behind overspending (fear, ego, self-worth).Why overspending erodes your profitability and leads to burnout.How to shift your mindset from “more is better” to “enough is enough.”Mantras and affirmations you can use in the moment to stop the cycle.Practical strategies, like building a “fun flower budget,” so you can still feel creative without sabotaging your bottom line.Why your budget is actually a boundary that your future self will thank you for.Key Quotes from This Episode:“Your budget is a boundary your future self will thank you for.”“Stop overspending to prove your worth — your art is enough.”“Fulfillment and profitability must go hand in hand, or resentment takes root.”Why This Episode Matters:As florists, it's easy to feel like “just a little extra” won't matter. But overspending adds up quickly — and it's often the difference between a thriving business and one that's just scraping by. By learning to set intentional boundaries with your designs, you'll not only increase your profits but also build a business that feels aligned and sustainable.Resources & Links Mentioned:Floral CEO Mastermind – Join for monthly live coaching, tools, and community.
John is in Boston taking care of his daughter. He wonders if a laugh track is all 2025 needs, and manages to sneak two drinks out of an Irish pub in coffee cups.
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Think you need huge blocks of time to make big progress in your floral business? Think again! In this episode, I'm sharing 10 practical, actionable things you can do in short bursts — just 20 minutes — that will move the needle in your business, even on your busiest weeks.Whether you're juggling weddings, a day job, kids, or farm chores (
Think you need a huge budget to grow your floral business? Think again. In this minisode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jen shares 5 proven, low-cost marketing strategies that have helped her book weddings and grow her brand — without spending a dime on Google or Facebook ads.Whether you're just starting out or trying to book more clients, these tips will help you get visible, connect with your ideal couples, and build a thriving floral business — all while keeping your costs low.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:Maximize Social Media – Create consistent, visually appealing, shareable content that gets noticed. Use location tags, vendor tags, and behind-the-scenes posts to expand your reach.Leverage Word of Mouth & Referrals – Build strong relationships with planners, venues, and vendors to drive client recommendations.Collaborate Locally – Partner with photographers, venues, and other wedding pros for styled shoots, events, or in-kind arrangements that put your work in front of new audiences.Boost SEO with Blogging – Share venue-specific and design-focused blog posts that attract couples searching online.Start Email Marketing for Free – Use a simple lead magnet and free tools like Mailchimp to nurture leads and stay top of mind.These strategies prove you can grow your wedding floral business with creativity, consistency, and connection—not just ad spend.
What are the top 6 flowers you absolutely need to know about right now? Join host Yvonne Ashton as she welcomes back resident flower guru David Dahlson for another exciting flower show and tell on Mornings with Mayesh! In this episode, we reveal the top 6 stunning flower varieties that every florist, designer, and flower enthusiast needs to know about. David shares his expert insights on timing, availability, and care tips for each bloom, including two gorgeous carnation varieties, an exciting new jumbo craspedia, exclusive Degas roses, and two beautiful phlox options perfect for fall arrangements. Featured in This Episode: Carnation Opium Thrill (coming in 3 weeks) Carnation Petra with peachy pink tones and impressive 3-4 inch blooms New Jumbo Craspedia variety with nearly 2-inch diameter heads Limited edition Degas Roses in stunning gold bronze (Mayesh US exclusive) Cherry Caramel and Crème Brûlée Phlox varieties with excellent fall supply NOTE: this episode is best in video format. Show notes, photos, and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-top-6-flowers-to-know
In this episode of The Flower Podcast, host Scott Shepherd sits down with Franceska McCaughan, The Hotel Florist, to explore how florists can grow their businesses with weekly floral accounts. Franceska shares her journey from experimenting with flower bars to building a thriving business serving hotels, restaurants, and professional spaces. She explains why embracing trial and error, thinking profit-first, and creating memorable client experiences can transform your floral business. You'll learn: -How weekly accounts can create reliable, recurring income -Why embracing “no” as “not right now” can open new opportunities -The importance of knowing your numbers and setting profit-first goals -Tips for building client relationships that last Whether you're a florist, event designer, or flower farmer looking to add a steady revenue stream, this conversation is packed with practical advice and inspiration. Learn more about Franceska's Starter Challenge - 7 days to learn how to pitch to hotels! Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com. Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! If you have a minute, it would be great if you could leave a review wherever you listen to our podcast. You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don't miss a minute.
Are you feeling the weight of wedding season creeping in? In this episode of The Floral CEO Podcast, Jen gets real about burnout as a wedding florist—how it happens, why it happens, and the 10 practical strategies you can implement to prevent it. After a marathon wedding weekend with a massive hanging installation and no teardown help, Jen hit a wall and realized just how crucial it is to manage your energy, boundaries, and systems before burnout takes over.You'll learn:How to identify your burnout threshold and why knowing it is key to a sustainable business.10 strategies to avoid wedding burnout, including batching tasks, outsourcing help, and automating repetitive processes.The importance of blocking recovery days and prioritizing your health to recharge between big events.How saying “no” with conviction to clients and jobs that don't align can save your sanity and energy.Why celebrating your wins and reflecting on your work can restore joy and purpose in your floral business.Whether you're a seasoned wedding florist or just stepping into larger events, these tips will help you stay energized, prevent burnout, and fall back in love with your floral business—even in the busiest seasons.
Laura Dowling served as the White House Chief Floral Designer from 2009-2015 during the Obama administration. In this episode she shares her favorite White House projects and tips for holiday decor. I loved hearing about her experience interviewing for the job at the White House. Inspiring and honest, I loved every minute of this conversation! Laura's latest book, Designing Christmas, will be out this fall and I can't wait to order it.
As floral business owners, we're constantly told to “invest in your business”… but what does that actually mean? And more importantly—how do you know if an investment will actually pay off?In this episode of the Floral CEO Podcast, I'm breaking down the investments that completely changed my floral business—and the ones I absolutely regret. After spending well over $100K on tools, education, and support, I've learned which investments create freedom, revenue, and growth… and which ones are just expensive mistakes.If you've ever felt stuck wondering if you should buy a course, pay for ads, hire help, or sign up for new software, this episode will give you clarity.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ The best business investments that skyrocketed my growth as a wedding florist⚠️ The common mistakes florists make that cost time and money
In this episode you'll get to know one of the talented and dedicated farm members of the Philadelphia Floral Guild. Elise Hanks owns and operates Terra Luna Herbals, a microfarm located in the very urban Norris Square neighborhood of Philadelphia. Elise has been working in flowers for over a decade, both in florist shops and at farms. In fact, she was an employee at my flower farm all the way back in 2012 so this conversation and the way we work together now as peers feels beautifully full circle to me. Elise launched Terra Luna out of a small community garden space in 2015, at first focusing on homegrown, value-added herbal products. There are several crossover crops between herbal medicine and floristry, so Elise soon found herself selling bouquets to Riverwards Produce, a local, independent grocery store. Today her focus has shifted considerably to growing high-quality, specialty stems for wholesale to florists. She joined PFG in 2024 and has proven the old adage “small but mighty” is true. While Elise grows on a very small footprint, her unique offerings, high quality, and reliability have made her a standout at PFG. I'm excited for you to get to know Elise a little bit better through this chat! You can also find Elise on Instagram where she frequently posts very real glimpses into the highs and lows of flower farming and small business ownership. Her handle is @terralunaherbals. ---- This podcast is brought to you by the Philadelphia Floral Guild, a collective of flower farms in the mid-Atlantic region selling together to florist and other wholesale buyers. We help you elevate your design work and manifest a better tomorrow with locally-grown stems. Visit philadelphiafloralguild.com to learn more and follow us on Instagram @phillyfloralguild for regular inspiration. Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on what's in season, tips and tricks for design, and the latest episodes. Not near Philadelphia but would like to source local flowers for your business? Check out localflowers.org and rootedfarmers.com to find a flower farm near you. What Can Locally Grown Stems Do For Your Floral Business? Less Shrink: Without the stress of a long ride in the global supply chain, our stems are superior in quality with much less breakage and far better hydration. Less Labor: Our growers do all the work of a studio assistant, stripping stems and making fresh cuts on stems that go directly into water and never leave a water source. This means you do not have to process anything! Less Trash: There are no boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, box straps, plastic sleeves, and all the other usual trash that comes with a flower delivery from the traditional wholesaler. More Inspiration: Designing with the seasons sparks creativity. No two weeks are the same. More Community: Workign with local growers is a very personal connection. You'll grow your community every time you buy local.
There's a growing conversation online about how “being a wedding florist sucks.” But here's the truth—I love being a wedding florist!
On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, we're joined by Michael Jacobson, CEO of French Florist—the Los Angeles-based floral brand that has transformed from a single struggling shop into a $9.5M+ powerhouse poised for national franchise expansion. Michael is on a mission to disrupt the floral industry with a blend of creativity, operational excellence, and a commitment to customer experience.In our conversation, Michael shares what it took to transform French Florist, from the unsexy but critical work behind the scenes to building a brand that puts feelings and customer experience first. We dive into the systems and mindset shifts needed to scale a family business, the power of storytelling in a traditional industry, and why focusing on values before revenue has driven French Florist's success.Whether you're a founder looking to reinvent a legacy business, a brand builder wanting to understand operational excellence with heart, or someone who loves hearing about bold transformations—this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Now on The Kara Goldin Show. Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at karagoldin@gmail.com. You can also find me @KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Michael Jacobson and French Florist:https://www.instagram.com/frenchfloristhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelrichardjacobsonhttps://www.frenchflorist.com/ Sponsored By:Open Phone - OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months! Just go to OpenPhone.com/KaraGoldinApple Card - Visit apple.co/cardcalculator today and discover just how much Daily Cash you can earn. Check out our website to view this episode's show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/720
In this minisode, Jen walks you through her step-by-step process for prepping a large-scale wedding—featuring a $15,000 event at The Machine Shop with a jaw-dropping 60-foot hanging floral installation. From calculating square footage to choosing the right mechanics, ordering product, and budgeting for fun flower finds, Jen shares the exact systems she uses to keep big wedding weeks stress-free.Whether you're designing your first large install or scaling your floral business, this episode is packed with real-world insight and time-saving tips. Learn how Jen prepares her team, plans her floral recipes, and sets herself up for a smooth, successful event—all while keeping her sanity intact.What You'll Learn:How to break down a complex install by square footageThe floral mechanics Jen uses (and why she skips paddle cages)How to stay within budget while still adding creative flairWhat's on her pre-wedding prep checklistHow to use systems to avoid wedding week chaosMentioned in This Episode:Holex for product orderingFloral CEO Mastermind: floralceo.com/mastermind
Based in Kingston, Massachusetts, on Boston's South Shore, farmer-florist Julie Raymond grows cut flowers for her clients' wedding florals. After an initial career in social service, Julie's graduate work in horticulture and landscape design now informs her philosophy. She says: “That background in science and design is rooted in everything I do and has inspired […] The post Episode 726: Navigating weddings as a farmer-florist with Julie Raymond of Bittersweet Gardens appeared first on Slow Flowers Podcast with Debra Prinzing.
Freelancers are the secret ingredient to scaling your floral business without burning out—but managing them isn't always easy. In this episode, Jen pulls back the curtain on how she's built a thriving freelance team that supports her weddings, events, and installations. From creating a welcoming studio environment to setting clear expectations and having those tough conversations when needed, you'll walk away with actionable strategies to lead with confidence and kindness.If freelancers are part of your business—or you want them to be—this episode will help you hire, train, and retain the right people so you can step fully into your role as the CEO.
✨ Floral Rockstar Retreat Announcement: Your Dream Workshop Is Here! ✨Hello, flower friends! It's Jen, and I am SO excited to share a dream-come-true announcement with you. The next Floral Rockstar Retreat is officially happening—and this time, it's at my very own farm in Dennison, Minnesota!
Join Jen in this week's episode of the Floral CEO podcast as she dives deep into the concept of 'Profit First' by Mike Michalowicz. Jen shares her personal journey and insights into implementing this financial system in her floral business. Learn about the essential buckets for managing your revenue, including income, tax, owner's compensation, profit, and operating expenses. Jen also discusses the significance of keeping your business financially healthy and the importance of supporting yourself as an entrepreneur. Whether you're a seasoned florist or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable advice for running a profitable floral business.00:00 Introduction to the Floral CEO Podcast00:14 Diving into Profit First00:57 Understanding the Profit First System01:59 Setting Up Your Buckets02:57 Simplifying the Tax Bucket04:44 Owner's Compensation Explained06:09 The Importance of the Profit Bucket09:00 Operating Expenses and OPEX Account11:38 Managing Multiple Accounts14:45 Expense Audits and Financial Adjustments22:39 The Role of Profit in Business Growth30:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Working smarter, not harder — today I share five ways you can apply the 80/20 principle in your flower business to get better results.
As a small business owner, no one tells you how lonely entrepreneurship can feel.When you leave a team environment, a corporate office, or even a busy retail shop, you lose something important: community. Suddenly, it's just you. You're making all the decisions, carrying the weight of the challenges, and often celebrating wins alone too.In this episode, Jen opens up about her own experience with loneliness in her floral business and how she built a supportive network that not only helped her business grow but also made the journey less isolating.If you've ever craved connection, accountability, or just someone to talk shop with—this episode is for you.
Michael Jacobson is the CEO of French Florist.Michael transformed his uncle's LA flower shop into a powerhouse that is now available nationwide.Wear Many Hats picked out their bouquet, Heavenly Colors, to go with the ambience of our studio and have gifted it to the ones that we love. Heavenly Colors is described as the most vivid hues seen only in spectacular sunsets that are on display in this heavenly work of art.Lets talk flowers, Michael's favorite arrangements, and how tech and flowers come together in an unexpected place.Please welcome Michael Jacobson to Wear Many Hats.instagram.com/frenchfloristinstagram.com/wearmanyhatswmhinstagram.com/rashadrastamrashadrastam.comwearmanyhats.com
Erin Webb grew up immersed in plants and horticulture, following three generations of Michigan ornamental nursey owners before her. For as long as she can remember, Erin was immersed in the business of plants. After studying business and Spanish in college, and after an initial career in corporate America, in 2019, Erin returned to the […] The post Episode 723: Drawing from her family's horticulture roots, Michigan-based farmer-florist Erin Webb of Florista of West Olive shares a farm tour and design demonstration appeared first on Slow Flowers Podcast with Debra Prinzing.
What happens when you mix a deep love for small business with the drive to shake up an outdated industry? You get BloomNation. In this episode, I sat down with Farbod Shoraka, Co-founder & CEO of BloomNation, to talk about how a few powerful insights—and one unforgettable lunch—led to the creation of a platform that empowers thousands of florists and small business owners across the U.S. We delve into how BloomNation evolved from a simple idea into a nationwide software solution that enables independent florists to thrive in the e-commerce landscape. Farbod opens up about his personal motivations, lessons learned during the pandemic, and how his company is helping preserve the soul of small businesses while building for long-term resilience. Here are some key moments from the episode: * How Farbod's father's unwavering support helped him leave finance to launch his first startup * The early insight that disrupted the floral industry—and why removing the middleman mattered * How the pandemic became a tipping point for small business digital adoption * The strategy behind BloomNation's evolution into Promenade and their recent UK expansion * Farbod's no-BS advice for founders: “Don't listen to anyone. Carve your own path.” Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to the episode and hear how one founder is creating meaningful impact—one bouquet, one order, and one small business at a time. For more on BloomNation, visit: https://www.bloomnation.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review. Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify. Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above.