My career in flowers began in 2012 when I moved to Santa Cruz, CA, and started working for a flower farm selling flowers and produce at farmer’s markets all over the bay area. I studied fine art at UC Santa Cruz, but have always had a passion for farming. After graduating, I took a few months off in the summer to travel through Italy and work on small organic farms, while practicing my Italian (which I also studied for four years).
Ever since I have been getting deeper into my obsession of growing flowers, but after working for a few other farms in the bay area, I finally started my own business in 2018 and planted my own cutting garden. After my first year growing, selling, and arranging my own flowers, I decided to move back to my hometown in Southern California to look for a slightly larger plot of land to grow on, and let my business grow some roots here.
My floral designs are heavily influenced by the flowers I grow myself, or that I can get from other local growers. I find that working with imported flowers that are out of season can never produce the same organic, natural look that field grown flowers can, and it makes the designs that much more special.
SHOW NOTES
Lindsey shares how working in different regions, cultures, and languages expanded her skills and pushed her to adapt and learn quickly.
She talks about growing Sea Shell Coreopsis and how a hands-off approach — with only occasional deadheading — gives her the best results.
Lindsey emphasizes the importance of photographing your flowers well, finding the best angles and natural light to inspire excitement and connection.
She explains why she intentionally keeps her business small, enjoying the creative freedom and hands-on nature of doing most of the work herself.
Lindsey discusses how small weddings and intimate events are her sweet spot, allowing her to fully express her artistic style.
We talk about the organization https://wwoof.net/ where she traveled and learned organic farming from other farmers abroad.
Participating in workshops with other designers is a wonderful way to make connections and networking opportunities.
Lindsey also mentioned Captain Jack Organic bug spray and Santa Cruz Dahlias.
One of the benefits of freelancing for others is you can see the working functions of other florists.
