The Business & Pleasure of Flowers

Episode 242:   In this episode, Vonda interviews Lori about her experience at the Society of America Florist (SAF) Convention in Miami last week. Lori shares her insights and highlights from the convention, from the networking opportunities and meeting up with our Cliquers to her participation as a moderator for a panel discussion, she gives great tips and takeaways. You won't want to miss he...

Episode 241: Join us for an inspiring interview with Stefani and John Goetz, the couple behind 21 Petals in Lafayette, IN. Stefani, a dedicated assistant principal, and John, a law enforcement professional, share their remarkable journey of starting a flower farm and eventually building a successful flower business. With a child with extraordinary needs, they embraced life's challenges and tu...

Episode 240:   In this episode, hosts Lori and Ellie chat with Williee Armellini, the artist, musician, writer and owner of the Flowers and Cents website and newsletter. Williee shares some fascinating anecdotes about his personal journey and talks in-depth about his book "Flowers Come from Where?". The book offers insight into the growth and history of the importer and domestic flower i...

Episode 239: In this episode, we'll share highlights from an recent webinar session provided and sponsored by Flower Clique. Join Ellie LaFever as she delves into the exciting world of upcoming color palettes in the floral industry. She shares the insights presented by J. Keith White at the 2024 AIFD convention, featuring the American Floral Trends Forecast. Ellie LaFever also imparts valuabl...

Episode 238: In this episode, Vonda and Lori explore the impact of different leadership traits on employee retention. They discuss five leadership habits to avoid that can drive employees away and undermine your authority. By self-evaluating and identifying these destructive traits, leaders can course-correct and create a more engaging work environment. Additionally, Vonda and Lori share five posi...

Episode 237: In this episode, Vonda shares her unique perspective on the AIFD Symposium Emerge, held in Orlando FL while driving home. Though she didn't attend any of the programs, she was able to personally meet the designers. Vonda had the task of working behind the scenes for 10 days alongside her co-chair and partner in floral, Julie Poeltler, in a well-oiled Flower Workroom. Vonda offers...

Episode 236: Vonda and Lori are at AIFD this week, making it the perfect opportunity for YOU to catch up on any podcast episodes you’ve missed! If you need a recommendation, check out Episode 159: “Leadership Lessons: Five Dysfunctions of a Team.” In this episode, the Flower Clique gals give an overview of the book “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by Patrick Lencioni which discusses the pitfalls...

Episode 235: In this episode, Vonda and Lori share their personal experiences and challenges with energy and brain power at the end of the day. They discuss what a personal productivity curve is and why it's important to understand it in order to maximize your productivity during your most productive time of day. They provide valuable tips and strategies to help you identify your most product...

  In this special extended episode, Vonda and Lori engage in an insightful interview and casual chat with Kate Penn, Executive Vice President/CEO of the Society of American Florists (SAF), and Oscar Fernandez, SAF President and Chairperson of Equiflor/RioRoses. Join us as we explore the exciting programs offered at the upcoming SAF Convention on August 6-9, and gain an understanding of the essence...

Episode 233: Summer is the ideal time to recharge and take a mental break. In this lighthearted and fun podcast episode, Vonda and Lori explore the significance of disconnecting from work and offer practical examples to illustrate how it can be achieved. Tune in to learn how to put yourself in OFF Mode and embrace the benefits of giving your mind a well-deserved rest. Sponsored by: Flower Clique F...

Episode 232: Graduation ceremonies are happening (or have already!) for 8th graders, high school students, and college graduates, hosts Vonda and Lori offer not only heartfelt best wishes but also valuable advice for the future leaders, managers, and individuals stepping into new chapters of their lives. Drawing from their personal experiences, they dive into the importance of self-awareness and u...

Episode 231:  Lori and Vonda delve into the distinction between leadership knowledge and skills, emphasizing the importance of understanding this difference. They shed light on the crucial role of action in effective leadership and share personal anecdotes to illustrate their points. They also explore the power of the phrase "Be the leader you wish you had" as a guiding principle for tak...

Episode 230: Join us for an insightful interview with Bill McKinley AIFD, the endowed director of the prestigious Benz School of Floral Design at Texas A&M University. In this episode, we delve into the origins of the school and its current offerings as well as the connection and history it has with Korean classes and instruction. Learn about the classes available at the Benz School, its histo...

Episode 229:  Join us for an inspiring conversation with Bill McKinley, AIFD, CFD, an Instructional Associate Professor for floral design at Texas A&M University and the endowed chair of the Benz School of Floral Design. Bill shares his remarkable journey in the floral industry, from its humble beginnings to his current roles at TAMU which also include an advisor for the Forsythe student chapt...

Episode 228:  Lori and Vonda explore the various traditions and customs of celebrating Mother's Day across different parts of the world. Drawing from an article by Tierney McAfee, they discuss the different dates on which Mother's Day is celebrated internationally, as well as some common similarities such as the tradition of giving flowers. Join them as they share unique and fun traditio...

Episode 227:  In this episode, Vonda and Lori are joined by Jennifer Barnard, from Tillies Flower Shop in Wichita, KS. With Mother's Day just around the corner, Jen shares valuable insights on marketing strategies that can still be implemented. She provides suggestions on how and what to do to maximize sales during this peak period. The hosts and guest also discuss the importance of getting y...

Episode 226: Join Vonda and Lori as they chat with Ralph Giordano AIFD, owner of Giordano's Floral Creations in Fort Pierce FL, and one of the "Core 4" AIFD Symposium Coordinators. Ralph shares his excitement for the upcoming AIFD National Symposium "Emerge" to be held in Orlando FL from July 2-6. Listen in to discover exciting details about the schedule of events and what...

Episode 225: In this episode, Vonda and Lori dive into the topic of trying new things in your flower business, specifically exploring trendier flower designs for websites and in-store displays. They discuss three main factors that often hold people back from embracing new trends, starting with the influence of mindset. By adopting an open mindset, you can overcome these barriers and allow new fres...

Episode 224:  In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Vonda and Lori delve into the insightful reflections of Eric Partaker's blog post, "20 Harsh Truths at 47 I Wish I Knew at 27." As they relate these timeless truths to their experiences in life and the floral industry, they explore the idea that with age comes wisdom and the perspective to appreciate the lessons learned along th...

Episode 223:  Join us as we dive into the world of prom with none other than Dan Fisher, the President and owner of Fitz Designs. Known as the "King of Bling," Dan is an expert in the industry and shares his wisdom on prom trends, the best way to market and prepare for prom, and much more.  Dan enlightens us on a helpful tool flower shop owners can utilize to learn more about their produ...

Episode 222: In this episode, we delve into the importance of keeping a watchful eye on your expenses. Without a doubt, you're watching those major charges coming across your desk, however,  today we discuss the significance of reviewing your credit card statements and breaking out recurring charges. By evaluating these charges, you can determine if you are still utilizing the services or sub...

Episode 221:  Join hosts Lori and Vonda as they tackle the never-ending struggle of keeping team meetings on track. Discover their game-changing tip, Highlight and Help, that will help you maintain focus and eliminate off-topic tangents, whether you're leading a team or conducting an individual meeting. Say goodbye to meeting mayhem and hello to productive and purposeful discussions! Sponsore...

Episode 220: Join hosts Lori and Vonda as they discuss Lori's  recent experiences at SAF Next Gen Live! and GLFEE conferences, where Lori presented alongside Ellie LaFever PFCI.  Both being seasoned presenters as well as lovers of education, they offer insights into making the most of education sessions as attendees and presenters. Discover three practical tips for setting yourself up for suc...

Episode 219: Join Vonda and her guest, friend, and co-worker Kami Martin in this episode dedicated to the art of preparing a flower shop for Mother's Day. From the inception of design ideas to the photo shoot, discover the intricate process of creating new products for this important holiday. Vonda and Kami share insights into the often-overlooked steps that can set your flower shop up for a...

Episode 218: Vonda and Lori discuss 20 Interesting Psychology Facts You Should Know  written by Lukas Schwekendiek and how they apply to the floral industry and you in everyday life. From the music to choose to listen to multitasking, here might be a few that you've heard before, and others we venture to say are a bit surprising.  Sponsored by: Flower Clique Flower Clique Prep School Real Lif...