Bringing you all an interview with the lovely Jessica Jones of Blooms N Blossoms located in Georgetown, Kentucky. I’ve known Jessica for years and have enjoyed watching her business grow and grow, she’s strong and tenacious and goes after what she wants for her business and family. I’m thrilled to share her thoughts and words here on Flirty Fleurs.
Jessica, can you tell us a little bit about what prompted you to start Blooms N Blossoms?
I started Blooms ‘n Blossoms shortly after re-discovering my love of flowers. I went to college with the intentions of being a high school agriculture teacher, with an emphasis in large animal science. My first teaching assignment was floral design class. I took a 3 day crash course in floral design at Eastern Kentucky University, because I had never designed anything intentional before. I learned basic mechanics and design to take back to my high school courses. On day two we designed a Hogarth curve design. Dr. Black walked over to me and asked “How long have you designed?” I answered “two days”. He looks at me dead in the eye and tells me “I think you’ve missed your calling. You have natural talent. Consider it.” So I did. I practiced at home, took classes and eventually booked my first wedding. I was hooked and absolutely fell in love with designing weddings. I worked as a teacher and as an environmental scientist while I built my business at night and on weekends. I’m now entering my 19th year in the industry.
How are you feeling now that 2020 & 2021 are behind you and you tackle 2022 for your business?
2020 & 2021 sure brought on the challenges! BUT I learned so much about myself and business in those two years. I am so very thankful for the clients that held on through the muck and the mire! I feel like I forged closer client relationships during those times. We navigated the uncertainty side by side! I really leaned into those moments to get to know my clients better. Friendships were formed! I definitely played catch up in 2021, with a lot of double-booked weekends. My incredible team of freelancers helped me navigate the heavy design days and logistics of being in two to three places at once.
I designed some of my largest weddings of my career in 2021. I am forever appreciative to the planners and clients to allowed me the opportunity to stretch my design wings. My heart is so full of thankfulness! I’m looking into 2022 with hopefulness and excitement! I am seeing a trend of smaller weddings, with an emphasis on flowers. I’m looking forward to growing during a season where all small businesses are evolving and changing to meet client needs.
What do you see as the next big thing in floral design? What has seen its day?
I think modern, clean designs are on their way back. Things like solid rose and calla designs, clean lines and unique styles. Garden inspired styles are here to stay. BUT in my opinion greenery everything has seen its day. (Side note: greenery costs have soared… so spend that on flowers!)
What is the biggest challenge facing the floral industry?
The biggest challenge is supply issues and cost increases. Sourcing flowers and supplies has become a race to be first in line and educating our wedding and event clients of those challenges. Quoting weddings accurately has also been a challenge due to the uncertainty of pricing.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I find inspiration mostly in natural settings like our farm, flower gardens and flower farms. Understanding how a flower grows and it’s habits allows me to play on that in my designs. I also love to fan girl on some of my favorite designers on Instagram. I study their styles, technique and flower choices.
What is your favorite part of being a floral designer?
My favorite part of being a floral designer is discovering new flower varieties, making flower friends across the country and getting to know my clients.
Which blogs & magazines do you read?
Southern Bride Magazine, Kentucky Bride Magazine, Flirty Fleurs, Front Porch Life Magazine, Magnolia Journal, Garden and Gun, Southern Living Magazine, Florist Review
If you were to design an arrangement for your home today what style would it be and what flowers would you use?
I’d love to have a natural, garden inspired compote in shades of orange, pinks and yellows on my table filled with tulips, peonies and daffodils dancing on across the top. Perhaps something unique like fruit or baby green tomatoes spilling out of the container.
How would you describe your style in 3 words?
Textural, natural, soft
What flower best represents your personality?
Daffodils! I just love their cheerful, sunny disposition & unique personalities!
Anything else you’d like to share with Flirty Fleurs followers?
Follow your dreams. Work hard and commit to that dream. For years I prayed for the place I’m at right now. I am intentionally standing in the middle of that and soaking up every moment I can. This career has allowed me to be more present as a mother, financially independent and gives me a creative outlet. There’s no shame in working hard, devoting yourself to your craft, crying when needed and celebrating in the moment!
Contact Information:
Jessica Jones
Blooms ‘n Blossoms
Georgetown, Kentucky
859.421.9915
Website: www.bloomsnblossomsky.com
All photographs shared in this post were provided by Jessica Jones.
