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The Flower Podcast

The Flower Podcast

Scott Shepherd, Host and Flower Educator · Scott Shepherd

300 episodesEN

Show overview

The Flower Podcast has been publishing since 2019, and across the 6 years since has built a catalogue of 300 episodes, alongside 14 trailers or bonus episodes. That works out to roughly 320 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence, with the show now in its 13th season.

Episodes typically run an hour to ninety minutes — most land between 1h and 1h 12m — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Business show.

There hasn’t been a new episode in the last ninety days; the most recent episode landed 5 months ago. Published by Scott Shepherd.

Episodes
300
Running
2019–2025 · 6y
Median length
1h 6m
Cadence
Weekly

From the publisher

The Flower Podcast, hosted by Scott Shepherd is for the floral community to discuss flowers, trends, and business topics, including everything from flower farmer to all aspects of floristry. Each week a featured guest will share their knowledge, passion, and love of flowers. Join us for colorful chats with talented creatives, photographers, growers, entrepreneurs, authors, and so much more!! Be sure to subscribe on your listening platform of choice. Learn more at https://www.theflowerpodcast.com . You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @theflowerpodcast .

Latest Episodes

View all 300 episodes

S13 Ep 304Grit, Growth, and the Real Work Behind Flower Farming with Lyndsay Biehl-Mercer and Shannon Allen

Most of flower farming doesn't look like the photos—and that's exactly what this conversation is about. In this episode, I sit down with Lyndsay Biehl-Mercer of Wildroot Flower Co. and Shannon Allen of Bloom Hill Farm to talk about the real side of building a flower business: grit, focus, fear, finances, burnout, and learning as you go. We talk about why there's pressure to make everything look beautiful, how easy it is to work yourself into the ground, and why getting good at one thing early matters. We also dig into practical habits—tracking numbers, using simple tools, and making informed decisions—along with the bigger question many growers face: Is this work life-giving, or is it taking something from me? This is an honest, grounded conversation for anyone navigating flower farming in real time—and a reminder that with all the resources available today, none of us need to be doing this alone. Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers — Learn more and join at ascfg.org Visit RootedFarmers.com and use code TFP25 for $75 off your new membership. The Gardener's Workshop — Helping flower farmers grow smarter at thegardenersworkshop.com Visit AccentDecor.com and be inspired for your floral design containers and decor. 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.

Dec 18, 20251h 15m

S13 Ep 303Using Beneficial Insects in Cut Flower Production with Erik van der Sluys

In this episode of The Flower Podcast, Scott welcomes Erik van der Sluys of Beneficial Insectary for a deep dive into natural pest control strategies tailored specifically for flower farmers. They explore practical, real-world approaches to managing common pests such as thrips, aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and fungus gnats, and discuss how integrating beneficial insects into your growing system can dramatically improve plant health and resilience. Erik breaks down how growers can strengthen their Integrated Pest Management (IPM) through foundational cultural practices (watering, fertilizing, crop rotation), sanitation practices (removing plant debris, cleaning tools, controlling weeds), and mechanical controls (sticky traps, insect screens, targeted water sprays). He also explains how and when to release beneficial insects—such as predatory mites, parasitic wasps, lacewings, and lady beetles—to support the natural ecosystem of your fields, tunnels, and greenhouses. Listeners will learn how to read seasonal pest patterns, track insect lifecycles, monitor temperatures for pest activity, and build habitats that attract and sustain beneficial insects. The conversation highlights why understanding the biology of both pests and beneficials is essential for long-term success, especially when dealing with repeat issues in crops like dahlias, lisianthus, zinnias, snapdragons, and more. Whether you're looking to reduce chemical pesticides, improve your biological control strategy, or create a more sustainable, resilient flower farm, this episode is packed with actionable guidance and expert insights to help you manage pests naturally—and grow stronger, healthier blooms. Learn more about this topic by visiting Beneficial Insectary. Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers: Learn more and join at ascfg.org Visit RootedFarmers.com and use code TFP25 for $75 off your new membership. The Gardener's Workshop — Helping flower farmers grow smarter at thegardenersworkshop.com Visit accentdecor.com and be inspired for your floral design containers and decor. 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.

Dec 4, 20251h 24m

S13 Ep 302Rethinking Growth with Lindsey Mizock of Pompelmo Floral

Scott Shepherd sits down with floral designer and grower Lindsey Mizock of Pompelmo Floral to talk about creativity, freelancing, and what it means to intentionally keep your business small. Lindsey shares insights from her years working on small farms along the California coast, her fine-art background, and her approach to design rooted in observation and authenticity. Together, they explore favorite flower varieties, the freedom of freelancing, and how staying small can create space for deeper creativity and connection in your floral business. Don't miss the Sell Your Flowers Summit, a free three-day online event happening November 20–22. Join host Lennie Larkin and 15+ experts to gain clarity, confidence, and community in selling your flowers. Learn more at SellYourFlowersSummit.com. 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.

Nov 13, 20251h 12m

S13 Ep 301The Science and Art of Plant Breeding with Dr. Keith Hammett

This week, Scott explores the intersection of science and artistry in the world of flower breeding. Dr. Keith Hammett, New Zealand's leading ornamental plant breeder, shares his passion for developing Dahlias, Sweet Peas, and Clivias that blend genetics, color, and creativity. Together, they discuss the delicate balance between science and art, the importance of scent in breeding, the joy of discovery, and how breeders quietly shape the world of floristry through their vision and dedication. This episode is made possible by our sponsors: Rooted Farmers: Connecting flower farmers and florists through one simple, trusted platform. Visit RootedFarmers.com and use code TFP25 for special offer of $75.00 off any individual plan (essential or pro) with Rooted Farmers. ASCFG: Supporting flower farmers with education, research, and community. Learn more at ascfg.org. 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! 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.

Oct 30, 20251h 11m

S13 Ep 300Starting Fresh with Galena Berkompas, Micro Flower Farm

Starting Fresh with Galena Berkompas Building a new flower farm from the ground up! In this episode, returning guest Galena Berkompas of Micro Flower Farm shares what it's like to start over on a new piece of land in Vancouver, Washington. She talks about prioritizing perennials, choosing cover crops, and balancing short-term crops with long-term investments. Galena also dives into her watering schedule, dahlia care, and the lessons she's learning as she rebuilds her micro farm from the ground up. Highlights: 1 Starting fresh on new land 2 Planting perennials for long-term success 3 TEFF as a cover crop 4 Midnight watering schedule & overhead irrigation 5 Dahlia care and nitrogen timing 6 Managing pollinated blooms 7 Building structure with shrubs & greens 8 Balancing quick-income crops with long-term growth Sponsors: Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers — Learn more and join at ascfg.org The Gardener's Workshop — Helping flower farmers grow smarter at thegardenersworkshop.com 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.

Oct 16, 20251h 8m

What Is Your Most Important Tool: Madeline Hooper of Gardenfit

What Is Your Most Important Tool? Madeline Hooper has such a great story. After years in public relations, competing as a ballroom dancer, and teacher she turned her focus to gardening and helping others. Together with her husband, she's spent over three decades creating and caring for their Rockland Farm in New York. She's also the co-creator of the TV series GardenFit, and she shares down-to-earth ways we can take care of our most important tool—our own body. Whether you're planting, weeding, hauling buckets, or marathon wedding installations, her tips will help you move smarter, avoid aches, and enjoy the work we love for years to come. It's all about self-care and taking care of our bodies to let them continue to take care of us. 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.

Oct 2, 20251h 4m

S13 Ep 298Planning for Profit with Jenny Marks, Trademarks Flower Farm

My guest today is Jenny Marks from Clifton Springs New York, a grower and educator who has built her business from the ground up. Jenny runs Trademarks Flower Farm, a productive one-acre farm celebrated for its gorgeous early spring blooms and smart, efficient growing practices. Alongside her own farm work, she created Trademark Farmer, where she teaches and mentors small-scale flower farmers who want to build profitable, sustainable businesses of their own. Jenny is also the voice behind the Six Figure Flower Farming podcast and teaches an in-depth online course of the same name, sharing practical strategies to help growers plan, market, and manage their farms with confidence. On top of that, she serves as the Northeast Regional Director for the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, helping connect and support growers throughout the region and today Jenny is on The Flower Podcast. 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.

Sep 18, 20251h 2m

S13 Ep 297Fleurs de Villes: Celebrating Floral Artistry and Opportunity with Tina Barkley

In this episode of The Flower Podcast, Scott is joined by Tina Barkley, co-founder of Fleurs de Villes. With more than 25 years in creative industries, Tina has built a career around bringing beauty, entrepreneurship, and storytelling together. She shares how floral artistry can go beyond decoration — becoming a way to tell stories, engage communities, and open new opportunities for your business. From saying "no" as a chance to pivot, to embracing perseverance and creativity, Tina encourages florists, flower farmers, and designers to see exhibitions and collaborations as powerful stages for their artistry. Fleurs de Villes showcases what's possible when flowers meet imagination, and this conversation is full of inspiration for anyone looking to grow their business and creative voice. Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com From timeless vessels that complement any bloom, to bold statement pieces that spark conversation, Accent Decor provides the tools you need to elevate your designs and showcase your creativity. Their ever-evolving collections are built with both beauty and functionality in mind, helping you share your unique floral story in every arrangement. Discover how Accent Decor can support your work by visiting accentdecor.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.

Sep 4, 202550 min

S13 Ep 296Seed Talk: Planning, Planting, and Cool Flowers at The Gardener's Workshop with Layne Angelo and Lisa Mason Ziegler

On this episode of The Flower Podcast, I'm joined by Layne Angelo, Seed Director at The Gardener's Workshop and co-host of Seed Talk with Lisa & Layne, alongside Lisa Mason Ziegler — gardener, flower farmer, educator, author, and founder of The Gardener's Workshop. Lisa has been a guest before, and it was wonderful to welcome her back and to also chat with Layne for the first time. Their podcast, Seed Talk, is a true treasure trove of information, offering growers practical guidance and insight into all things seed-related. In our conversation, we talk about the importance of planning ahead, the timing and value of cool flowers, and how keeping notes season after season can help you grow smarter. Lisa also shares details about her brand-new Jumbo Calendar Journal coming soon, designed to help gardeners map out and customize their planting plans. This episode is full of encouragement, practical tips, and inspiration for anyone growing flowers from seed. You can also listen to Lisa's past episodes with this link. 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.

Aug 21, 20251h 18m

S13 Ep 295Weekly Blooms, Steady Profits, with Franceska McCaughan, The Hotel Florist®

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.

Aug 7, 20251h 3m

S13 Ep 294The Seeds We Save, The Blooms We Shape: Inside Dawn Creek Farm

This week, Scott sits down with Kori Hargreaves, the heart and hands behind Dawn Creek Farm, for a conversation rooted in seeds, selection, and the creative process of flower breeding. Kori shares insights from her decade-long journey developing new open-pollinated varieties—including her collaboration with Floret. They explore the practical side of breeding—avoiding inbreeding depression, selecting for color and form, and choosing varieties that fit your market—and the deeper reasons behind saving seed and growing what lights you up. Whether you're a flower farmer, florist, or a gardener dreaming of your own breeding project, this episode will leave you inspired to look closer at what's blooming—and what's possible. 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.

Jul 10, 20251h 12m

S13 Ep 293Floristry with Heart and Purpose: Carole Patilla of Tuckshop Flowers and The Farewell Flowers Directory

In this episode of The Flower Podcast, Scott Shepherd talks with Carole Patilla of Tuckshop Flowers and co-founder of The Farewell Flowers Directory. They explore the growing movement toward sustainable and foam-free funeral flowers. Carole shares practical tips for florists ready to shift away from floral foam, embrace compostable design, and rethink traditional funeral floristry. This inspiring conversation is all about starting small, building confidence, and making meaningful change in your local community. Whether you're new to sustainable design or looking to expand your eco-conscious offerings, this episode is full of encouragement, resources, and heartfelt advice. We're excited to have Accent Decor as a sponsor of The Flower Podcast. The help florists and farmer florists elevate deigns with their amazing collection of vessels and containers. Visit accentdecor.com and explore all they have to offer. 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.

Jun 26, 20251h 20m

S13 Ep 292Authenticity: The Florist's Path to Confidence, Clarity, and Community with Elizabeth Hodges, Philo Floral

In this episode of The Flower Podcast, Elizabeth Hodges, owner of Philo Floral in Greenville SC., opens up about the powerful mindset shift that helped her build a business rooted in authenticity. We explore how understanding generational values—from Gen Z's focus on connection and transparency to older generations' appreciation for experience—can change the way you approach wedding consultations and client relationships. Elizabeth also shares her thoughts on taking ownership of your growth, letting go of the need to be liked by everyone, and the importance of putting on blinders when it's time to focus. We dive into how contracts provide security during uncertain times, the role planners play in her business, and why supporting local flower growers matters now more than ever. A big thanks to our sponsors, The Gardener's Workshop—helping flower farmers grow smarter with tools, seeds, and courses rooted in real experience—and the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, a community that supports and connects flower growers at every stage. This conversation is packed with honest insights and practical wisdom for anyone growing a flower-based business. Whether you're just starting out or reevaluating where you're headed, this episode will inspire you to lead with intention—and grow with confidence. 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.

Jun 12, 20251h 3m

S13 Ep 291Building Your Best Farm: Adrianne Gammie of Marilla Field and Flora

In this episode, we welcome back Adrianne Gammie, a dedicated flower farmer known for her intentional approach to business, sustainability, and community impact. Adrianne shares valuable insights from her evolving farm, covering everything from pollinator habitat and land stewardship to profitability and professional relationships. Her candid advice is grounded in real-world experience and offers practical strategies for flower farmers at any stage. Topics Covered: -How diversification helps manage risk in farming -Creating and managing pollinator habitat for ecological health -Learning from experts and the local community -Responsible land management, even beyond cultivated areas -The importance of clear communication with florists -Using platforms like Rooted Farmers to streamline sales -Evaluating crop profitability regularly -Building trust through in-person deliveries -Customizing your flower farm to fit your unique context Takeaway: Adrianne reminds us that successful flower farming isn't one-size-fits-all. It's about long-term thinking, building relationships, and making choices that align with your values and goals. Rooted Farmers is free for flower buyers, from consumers to all kinds of florists. Additionally, flower farmers can save $75 on either of the plans they offer by using the code TFP25 for that discount. Follow this link to Rooted Farmers. Now is a great time to join the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers! Connect with growers, take advantage of educational opportunities, access the vast library of past articles and conferences, and so much more. Visit ASCFG.org to learn more about all the benefits that comes with membership 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! 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.

May 29, 20251h 8m

S13 Ep 290Standards in Cut Flower Production: Diane Szukovathy of Jello Mold Farm

Flowers are at the heart of so many meaningful moments—especially since Mother's Day week just happened. This episode honors the hardworking farmers, florists, designers, and behind-the-scenes teams who make it all possible. Returning guest Diane Szukovathy of Jello Mold Farm joins Scott for a rich conversation about long-term farm planning, infrastructure investment, and the evolving role of a flower grower. As a founding member of the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market, Diane also shares the story behind Floral Standards—a new, farmer-developed book designed to help growers sell more confidently with clear guidelines for stem counts, harvest stages, and post-harvest care. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about local flowers, building a business, or creating a lasting impact in the floral industry. Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com. Visit Diane's page for easy access to all of her links and social pages. Now is a great time to join the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers! Connect with growers, take advantage of educational opportunities, access the vast library of past articles and conferences, and so much more. Visit ASCFG.org to learn more about all the benefits that comes with membership. 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.

May 15, 20251h 12m

S13 Ep 289Being the Face of Your Farm: Nicole Pitt, Flower Hill Farm

We're chatting with Nicole Pitt, the passionate owner of Flower Hill Farm, and a popular YouTube creator, as she shares her journey in the world of flower farming. Nicole's story is all about planting roots, both literally and figuratively, as she returned to her childhood home in 2018 and transformed it into a thriving farm full of flowers. Some of the topics we discussed: Perennials as a Foundation: Nicole emphasizes that perennials, though slower to establish, are long-term investments that form the backbone of the farm. Animal Control Is Essential: Research the best animal control methods for your area. Nicole used fencing, poles, and covers, but every farm's needs are different. Retail Space for Community Connection: Creating a retail space helped Nicole connect with her community while keeping her private/family space separate. Revitalizing a Nursery: Nicole brought new life to the nursery — not just as a business, but as a way to give back to her community and offer another revenue stream for the town. Be the Face of Your Business: Show up as yourself. Vulnerability makes you relatable and helps build trust with your audience or customers. Take Lots of Photos: Document your journey from different angles — both for storytelling and content creation. Stay True to Yourself: Even if your close circle doesn't fully understand your path, it doesn't mean they don't support you. Trust your vision and keep going. Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com. Take a minute and explore all the offerings at The Gardener's Workshop. They offer a wide range of products for farmers and gardeners. Plus wonderful courses to help you fine tune your skills in growing. 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.

Apr 24, 20251h 6m

S13 Ep 288Design, Relationships, and Giving Back: Pili Fuentes's Floral Story

This week's episode highlights the importance of continual growth and learning in the floral industry. Our guest, Pili, exemplifies this by consistently investing in her skills through workshops and collaborations with leading designers. She emphasizes the need for exploring new trends and refining techniques to perfect one's craft. A key theme in the conversation is Pili's ability to identify issues and opportunities, then rallying the community to fill those gaps. We dive into the flower market in Mexico City, where Pili shares fascinating insights, including the fact that the only outside flowers allowed in the country come from Holland. She stresses the importance of strong relationships with vendors and local farmers, emphasizing that business success is built on trust and partnerships. For those working with florals in Mexico City and its surrounding areas, Pili offers her expertise and is available as a resource to assist with sourcing, cargo, logistics, and both flowers and supplies. A deeply personal aspect of Pili's journey involves her experience with cancer, which led her to start Flower House Mexico—a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for cancer charities. The unique workshop model at Flower House Mexico offers participants the chance to learn directly from floral designers in an intimate, hands-on setting over three days, diving deep into the creative and design process. Lastly, Pili reminds listeners of the importance of self-care—listening to your body, resting when needed, and pursuing ideas that resonate deeply with you. Takeaway: Keep investing in your growth, nurture relationships, and follow your passion—just like Pili does. Thanks to Accent Decor for being a sponsor again this year. Visit AccentDecor.com and be inspired. 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.

Apr 10, 202558 min

S13 Ep 287Streamlining and Growing Your Flower Business with Niki Irving

This week on The Flower Podcast our guest is Niki Irving, the owner and florist behind Flourish Flower Farm in Asheville, NC, where she grows a wide variety of flowers and foliage using sustainable methods. She creates beautiful, seasonal arrangements for weddings and events, leads classes and workshops on the farm, and offers fresh bouquets at her farmstand. Niki is also the author of the popular book Growing Flowers: Everything You Need to Know About Planting, Tending, Harvesting, and Arranging Beautiful Blooms, first published in 2021 with a new edition set to release in 2025. In this episode, Niki shares her journey in building a successful flower business. She discusses the importance of attracting the right customers, streamlining services, and diversifying income through various initiatives. Niki also highlights the value of customer education, the benefits of reviewing profit margins, and the role of ASCFG in supporting flower farmers. Learn how Niki manages to balance work and life while creating a business that aligns with her passions and priorities. Rooted Farmers is free for flower buyers, from consumers to all kinds of florists. Additionally, flower farmers can save $75 on either of the plans they offer by using the code TFP25 for that discount. Follow this link to Rooted Farmers. 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! 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.

Mar 27, 20251h 7m

S13 Ep 286Using Rooted Farmers to Track Trends, Sales, and More: A Database Goldmine

Numbers are our friends! Digging deep into the data generated through the growing and selling of our flowers is an important part of creating a more sustainable business. This week, we're chatting with Adrianne Gammie, owner of Marilla Field and Flora, along with Amelia Ihlo, founder of Rooted Farmers. We'll take the time to meet Adrianne and discuss with Amelia how to analyze data from 2024 to evaluate the flower crops grown by both of these growers, as well as analyze the data collected by Rooted Farmers from all its members. Looking back and identifying which flowers and colors were popular helps us make informed decisions as we move into 2025. There are a lot of flowers and seeds in the ground and in transit to growers all over, so gaining insights from last year's data is particularly helpful as we continue our planning for this year. Rooted Farmers is free for flower buyers, from consumers to all kinds of florists. Additionally, flower farmers can save $75 on either of the plans they offer by using the code TFP25 for that discount. Follow this link to Rooted Farmers. 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! 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.

Mar 13, 20251h 8m

S13 Ep 285Flowering Without Fear: The Florista, Meg Hutchinson

Today's guest is Meg Hutchinson, owner of The Florista, a floral and event business based in Nashville, TN. Meg is known for specializing and creating custom floral designs, bringing her client's vision to life. Her focus is delivering the "Wow Factor" through bespoke floral experiences that exceed expectations. In this episode we had a great time discussing several aspects of Meg's business. Never underestimate the importance in investing in yourself and mastering basic mechanics. Don't be afraid to take on projects that push you out of your comfort zone. It might be time to rebrand your business. Knowing the story you want to bring your clients will help you define your look and direction with your brand. We chat about how she budgets and shops for her events. And a whole lot more…… Learn more about Meg Hutchinson 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! 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. We're grateful to have the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers as a sponsor for this episode. Feel free to learn more about them and all benefits of being a member as ASCFG.org. If you're trying to source local flower farmers in your area visit LocalFlowers.org.

Feb 27, 20251h 8m
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