The Business & Pleasure of Flowers

Episode 217: Now that the whirlwind of Valentine's preparations is over, it's time to transition into the non-holiday period and focus on the well-being of you and your team,  and business growth. Join us in this episode as discover six practical suggestions to recharge your energy, both personally and professionally, so you can keep moving forward in your business endeavors. From catchi...

Episode 216:  We know our Cliquers are bustling as they work tirelessly to spread love and joy on this special day. In this short episode, join Lori as she recounts a heartwarming Valentine's encounter that left a lasting impression. Meanwhile, Vonda adds a touch of intrigue with little-known facts about Valentine's Day, from its mysterious origins to surprising trivia about the first va...

Episode 215:  This week Vonda and Lori rewind back to the Episode six where they share the four personality types of customers and how knowing that difference can elevate customer service, increase the sale, make taking orders more efficient and effective and have customers coming back for more, from YOU.  Customers share a common desire for kindness, understanding, and honesty. They crave an expe...

Episode 214: In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Botchick, an expert from Pioneer Imports and Wholesale, to discuss the latest trends for spring decor and prom. She shares valuable information and gives you access to their trends reports, via their website, to help you plan for success. Tune in as we unpack the why and how to set yourself up for success this spring and prom season! Pioneer Imp...

Episode 213: Join Lori and Ellie in this episode as they candidly share their "icks" - those things that totally gross them out - and their favorite new products they have recently discovered. They then move into an exciting interview with Holly Haveman, CF, the Chair of the 2024 Great Lakes Floral Event Expo (GLFEE). Join them as they delve into the details of this upcoming event, which...

Episode 212: In this virtual staff meeting episode, join Vonda, Lori and the Flower Clique team as they share valuable information and tips for flower shop owners to prepare for the upcoming busiest day of the year - Valentine's Day 2024. Vonda shares design productivity tips while Lori discusses sales tips and projections, providing insights into the estimated dollars customers are planning...

Episode 211: In this episode, Vonda and Lori discuss an exciting start to the year 2024. Lori shares some goals and aspirations for the upcoming year, and they both reveal their chosen "word for the year" - a powerful concept that encapsulates their intentions and theme for 2024. Whether you're looking for inspiration or simply interested in hearing about their journey, this episode...

Episode 210:  Join us in this special podcast episode as Flower Clique marks four years of blooming success since its inception in January 2020. Lori and Vonda, are joined with Kami and Ellie to reflect on their incredible journey. In this celebratory episode, the Flower Clique team delves into their professional growth over the past four years. Listen in as Lori, Vonda, Kami, and Ellie answer tho...

Episode 209:  Episode Description:  Vonda and Lori identify what they believe are the three most crucial areas for personal and business reflection from 2023 as we transition into 2024. Drawing upon their own experiences, conversations with many in this floral industry  and their own insights, Vonda and Lori provide a thoughtful guide for listeners to assess and analyze their own journeys. Tune in...

Episode 208: Vonda and Lori welcome back  Ellie LaFever, PFCI.  Ellie shares her invaluable insights and expertise on the process of creating fresh flower designs for the Flower Clique library of images for member websites. With a focus on the importance of having an open mind, Ellie discusses the key factors to consider when developing new floral products that capture the attention and imaginatio...

Episode 207:  In this episode, Abby Chick, returns  with new excitement to discuss her recent videos as a Mayesh Design Star! She shares with Vonda and Lori  highlights of her clips about sustainability for the retail florist industry.  The conversation focuses on practical ways to incorporate sustainability practices into the day-to-day operations of a florist business that she implements in her...

Episode 206: In this episode, Vonda and Lori discuss the book, "The Retention Revolution: 7 Surprising (and Very Human!) Ways to Keep Employees Connected to Your Company" by Erica Keswin. They highlight some of the key points from the book and relate them to their experiences in the floral industry. Listeners can expect to gain a few good tips on how to keep employees engaged and connect...

Episode 205: Lori and Vonda dive into the topic of setting up for a successful selling season in the floral business. With their expertise and experience, they share their top 3 tips for success during the holiday season. In addition to their main tips, Lori and Vonda also provide some valuable bonus tips, including one that can make or break repeat sales going forward. Tune in to discover how to...

Episode 204: Join us for a heartwarming Thanksgiving episode as we gather together a few special family members of Vonda and Lori to share their heartfelt thoughts on this special holiday. In this episode, we hear from Vonda's granddaughters, Leighton and Campbell Martin, whose youthful energy and enthusiasm add a refreshing perspective to the discussion.  We also have the privilege of listen...

Episode 203: In this episode Vonda and Lori hit the road in Illinois and are joined by  Ellie LaFever. They share their experiences at a private meeting of  BDC Managers and publicly at the SAF Profit Blast in Chicago, where gave presentations and insights on communication and personality tendencies. They also discuss their team's recent undertaking of a strength-finders assessment within the...

Episode 202: In this episode, we sit down with the current President of TSFA, Susan Piland AIFD, CFD, TMF, as well as the Immediate Past President, Cheryl Vaughn CFD TMFA, to learn more about the organization and its success. They share their insights on what has made TSFA a thriving community of floral professionals, what keeps it strong and what upcoming events and projects are on the horizon. T...

Episode 201: In this milestone episode, Vonda and Lori celebrate recording  200 podcast episodes by sharing their personal reflections on the journey so far. They talk about the lessons learned about themselves and one another. In addition, they ask each other 5 questions to give listeners a glimpse into their personalities, backgrounds, and interests. Get ready to learn more about the hosts behin...

Episode 200: Tune in to hear Lori's heartwarming and personal experience participating in the Society of American Florists' annual Petal it Forward campaign. On October 18, florists from all 50 states came together to spread joy and love by giving away flowers to unsuspecting recipients. Find out how this nationwide event was a great success and the profound impact it had on Lori and the...

Episode 199: In this episode, Vonda is joined by Audrey Kristoff and Ellie LaFever as they share their experiences from their recent trip to Bogota. They discuss the beauty of the flower farms, the journey of a Flower Clique Bundle, the event of Proflora as well as the love and appreciation of the local Columbians.  Sponsored by: Flower Clique Flower Clique Prep School Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 198:  Lori interviews Vonda about her recent visit to Bogota, Colombia. She went there to attend Proflora and visit some flower farms, particularly Natural Flowers - the provider for Flower Clique bouquets. During her time there, Vonda had the opportunity to meet the workers, see the flower bouquet creation process, make new friends and observe the ripples of kindness and respect that star...

Episode 197: In this episode, Vonda and Lori sit down with Renato Cruz Sogueco, Vice President of Digital Strategy and Education at BloomNet, as he shares his fascinating journey in the floral industry. Renato talks about his humble beginnings and the steps he took to reach his current position. Renato also highlights some of his notable accomplishments in the industry, shedding light on the chall...

Episode 196: Join Vonda and Lori for an insightful chat with David Armellini, a second-generation owner of Armellini Logistics. In this episode, David shares the fascinating history of his family-owned company and their trusted transportation services for the cut flower industry. Discover how Armellini Logistics has evolved over the years, constantly improving their methods and maintaining high st...

Episode 195: In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Brent Leech, a highly accomplished floral designer, educator, and AIFD representative on the National Board. Brent takes us through his incredible journey from a small town in Illinois to the bustling Arizona Flower Market in Phoenix, where an average of 200 floral deliveries a day is the norm. Brent shares insights on navigating the DIY flo...

Episode 194: In this episode Vonda takes the reins solo while Lori is away.  She will explore key insights and practical tips to help you navigate the rest of 2023 with confidence. Join her as she guides you as to what you can expect for your business in the upcoming months and how to effectively plan for success. We delve into the critical question of when and how to forecast your sales and deter...

Episode 193:  In this episode, we chat with Lottie McKinnon, Program Director, Industry Relations and Education at Teleflora.  Lottie shares her story about how she started in the industry over 15 years ago and how her passion for flowers has driven her success.  Additionally, Lottie gives listeners a sneak peek into what to expect from the upcoming Teleflora Education programs in 4Q 2023 and beyo...