The Inaugural Post

This is the post that sets up all other posts, correct? The post that gives you your first impression of me and my business. The pressure! I promise to be on my best behavior then. Just kidding--I only know how to be me--the perfect and imperfect!

I have some exciting things planned for this blog, and after 19 years in the floral industry, I know I'm bound to reminisce a time or two about some of my favorite past floral moments.

So, for now, just know that I vow to be myself on this forum. My imperfect, floral-loving, book-reading, hobby-cooking self. I am so excited to finally start my very own floral business, and I am over-the-moon about all of the possibilities this next chapter of my life will bring.

In this first post, I thought the best place to start might be to answer a few Q&A about myself.

What is your favorite floral event?

Weddings, of course! I have a special love for designing wedding flowers. I love the process--from getting to know the couples to day-of execution. All of the planning, all of the inspiration...seeing it all come together in the end is my absolute favorite!

What is your floral background?

I worked at a local flower shop in high school before moving into the wholesale side of the industry about 10 years ago after moving to the twin cities. I have been fortunate to have been a part of both sides of the floral industry and I have absorbed as much information as possible to help me expand my skills and knowledge. I have designed for over 900 weddings and events, both on my own, as well as assisting other talented florists and have been fortunate to create relationships within the industry that have led to some of the most meaningful friendships. I have recently returned to the retail side of the industry and am elated to be back in action designing, and planning events again.

I have served two terms as a board member on the Minnesota State Floral Association and in 2017 I was named one of the top 35, under 35 by Florists' Review magazine as well as being inducted into the American Institute of Floral Design (AIFD)--an organization that I have longed to be a part of since starting out in the floral industry.

What is your favorite flower?

“What a groundbreaking question, Jessica.” --myself.

Okay, I know this isn't all that groundbreaking, but I get this question A LOT. For good reason. I'm a flower gal--so, what does a flower gal love!? I love so so many flowers, but I must say I have a soft spot for Gloriosa Lilies...especially in white. They aren't crazy-readily available, so I generally will treat myself a few times a year. So, for an equally lovable bloom, I always go with the tulip. Love, love, love me a vase full of tulips and I try and have them in my home often.

Favorite Big-Screen Wedding?

No shame here--but the correct answer is Edward and Bella's wedding from Twilight. Seriously, y'all! The moss covered altar and table centerpieces. The hanging white blooms. the surrounding forest. The loads of candlelight and all the FERNS! That wedding was an absolute dream!

We get it--weddings(!), but do you design for anything else?

Sure--why not! No, but yeah--I gladly will design for any life event that comes your way. Whether that means celebrating the life of a special loved one with sympathy flowers, or surprising your sister's best friend because she just adopted a new pup! Whatever the occasion, if I am able to assist, I would be honored to.

I'd also like to take a moment in this first post to thank so many people that have been a part of my floral story. I am so thankful for all of the people in my corner and I cannot tell you all how much your support and guidance have helped me during the pre-stages of launching JOLENA.

And, if you are just meeting me here for the first time, please reach out--I'd love to connect with you and learn more about you. We may just be meeting, but I know we will get along great. Please be in touch.

Until next time,

Jessica