The Flower Files: The Wildly Native Podcast

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but when it comes to style shoots in the floral industry, the stories behind those images are priceless. Amber and the momma guests join me to peel back the curtain on the beautiful chaos of creating floral art for the camera. From the pressure of working with top-tier photographers to the delicate dance with fragile blooms like cosmos under the glare of the spotlight, we share tales from the trenches. And if you've ever wondered why your event flowers don't quite match the perfection of Instagram, we tackle the expectations versus reality debate, revealing the behind-the-scenes magic and mayhem.
Our adventures don't stop with petals and stems; they take us to the heart of Baltimore's artistic pulse. Imagine setting up a style shoot in an old bottling company—now a gritty art district—where the scent of dry florals mingles with the storied air of urban renewal. There's an eerie beauty in working amid the historic decay, and we discuss how these experiences not only fuel our creativity but also open doors to unexpected networking opportunities. The stories we share are a testament to the power of embracing diverse working styles and the unexpected lessons learned in the most unconventional of workspaces.
As the seasons turn, so does the world of flower farming, and we dive into the frosty challenges of the February landscape. Listen in as we recount the journey from struggling with sweet peas to the surprise of unsown seeds flourishing, and the baffling enigma of unsuccessfully growing stock. We wrap up with a fiery tease of an upcoming photography concept that's sure to ignite your senses. Join Amber, the mamas, and myself as we navigate the fertile ground of floral design, photography, and the artistic expression that blooms from it all. Don't forget to catch us on Instagram, where our floral escapades continue to unfold.

Support the show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlynativeflowerfarm/

Website: https://wildlynativeflowerfarm.com/
Hungry Root Code: FLOWER40
Hungry Root Link: https://www.hungryroot.com/?promo=FLOWER40&b=1084&utm_source=the-flower-files&utm_medium=partnership&utm_campaign=podcast

Garden Goal Planner: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/gardenplanner

Cut-Flower Guide: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/oyihkn1nwz

Embark on a captivating exploration of hospitality's heart with Hannah Warsh of the Hyatt in Ken Island, a beacon of event coordination. From her humble beginnings at Hyatt Place Dewey Beach's front desk to her rise as the director of sales and marketing, Hannah's story is not just a career chronicle but a testament to the enchanting allure of select service hotels. Our exchange unveils how the Hyatt Place Kent Narrows, with its breathtaking waterfront views and intimate gathering spaces, provides a canvas for unforgettable events. As Hannah delineates the subtle yet significant differences between select and full-service venues, listeners will gain an insider's perspective on the pivot points that make each event distinct and cherished.
Venture further into the transformation narrative of a hotel, where the bricks and mortar evolve alongside the heartbeats of its people. Hannah takes us through the expansion of Hyatt Place, Dewey Beach, and the Lighthouse Cove Event Center, recounting how personal connections and mentorship weave into the fabric of successful hospitality. Our conversation celebrates the emotional resonance of turning client dreams into tangible celebrations, the craftsmanship of memories, and the collaborative spirit that elevates the industry to an art form. Here, Hannah's passion shines, illustrating how building individual client relationships isn't just good business—it's the cornerstone of creating truly personalized experiences that echo in the minds of guests for a lifetime.
Our episode wraps with a personal touch, sharing how professional spaces can transform into hubs of community, camaraderie, and even love—Hannah met her husband in such a setting, after all. Selling a property becomes a joy when it's a vision you hold dear, and each property tour is akin to reuniting with a long-lost friend. As we navigate the convenience and beauty of Hyatt Place's wedding planning, we're reminded of the all-encompassing allure that natural surroundings bring to such grand celebrations. Our heartfelt sign-off, sprinkled with anecdotes and shared passions, connects back to the intricate personal threads that have been interlaced throughout our inspiring dialogue.

Support the show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlynativeflowerfarm/

Website: https://wildlynativeflowerfarm.com/
Hungry Root Code: FLOWER40
Hungry Root Link: https://www.hungryroot.com/?promo=FLOWER40&b=1084&utm_source=the-flower-files&utm_medium=partnership&utm_campaign=podcast

Garden Goal Planner: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/gardenplanner

Cut-Flower Guide: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/oyihkn1nwz

When serenity meets the storm beneath the surface, it's all in a day's work for Sarah Reynolds, the remarkable Eastern Shore wedding planner who guides us through the whirlwind of tying the knot. From her surprising transition from military life to orchestrating the most enchanting tented and waterside weddings, Sarah lets us in on the secrets of maintaining poise amid the chaos. Our conversation is a journey that begins with her very first event and sails through the evolving tides of the wedding industry, revealing the resilience and grace it takes to craft the perfect day.
Managing a wedding is akin to conducting an intricate symphony where the notes of budget constraints and vendor relations must harmonize beautifully. Sarah peels back the curtain on the delicate art of balancing a couple's dream with their wallet's reality, all while choreographing the dance of expectations and collaborations that defines the wedding planner's world. Whether it's the distinction between day-of coordinators and full-time planners or the quintessential role of a planner in creating a seamless celebration, we uncover the hidden layers that make a wedding not just an event, but an experience to treasure.
As our heartfelt exchange draws to a close, Sarah and I swap tales from the heartwarming to the downright bizarre, all collected from the front lines of love's grand festivities. We're reminded that beyond the venues and vows, it's the gratitude and friendships forged within the industry that keep us anchored. Sarah's insights shine a light on the power of having a confidant amidst the whirl of wedding planning, underscoring the profound impact of human connections in making every wedding—and every day—resoundingly special.

Support the show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlynativeflowerfarm/

Website: https://wildlynativeflowerfarm.com/
Hungry Root Code: FLOWER40
Hungry Root Link: https://www.hungryroot.com/?promo=FLOWER40&b=1084&utm_source=the-flower-files&utm_medium=partnership&utm_campaign=podcast

Garden Goal Planner: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/gardenplanner

Cut-Flower Guide: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/oyihkn1nwz

Ever wondered how a seed transforms into a work of art in a vase on your kitchen table? Join us at Wildly Native Flower Farm, where we peel back the petals of the floral industry, from our sustainable seed-to-dried-bloom cycle to the whimsy of wedding bouquets. This episode is a vibrant tapestry of stories and strategies, showing how we blend the raw beauty of nature with the grit required to run a successful flower farming operation.
As we tiptoe through the tulips, so to speak, we uncover the less-talked-about aspects of floral arrangements, including the delicate dance of hydration, the complexities of non-traditional materials like oasis moss, and the artful avoidance of toxicity in our bouquets. The secrets of shipping, rehydrating, and reviving blooms are shared, along with the seasonal intricacies that keep you—and your flowers—safe and stunning year-round. Whether you're a budding florist or an aficionado of all things flora, gain fresh insights into the care and craft that goes into every stem and leaf.
Pivoting to the hustle of the horticultural market, we share the thorns and roses of venturing into wholesale. From the surprise triumphs of unexpected crops to the local grower networks that keep our community rooted, this episode digs into the fertile ground of flower farming economics. Plus, we sprinkle in a few laughs over the occasional weed mistaken for a crop. It's a tale of business, blooms, and the occasional blunder—perfect for anyone interested in the flowering crossroads of agriculture and artistry.

Support the show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlynativeflowerfarm/

Website: https://wildlynativeflowerfarm.com/
Hungry Root Code: FLOWER40
Hungry Root Link: https://www.hungryroot.com/?promo=FLOWER40&b=1084&utm_source=the-flower-files&utm_medium=partnership&utm_campaign=podcast

Garden Goal Planner: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/gardenplanner

Cut-Flower Guide: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/oyihkn1nwz

Discover the extraordinary journey of Carlos Lopez, the self-made entrepreneur whose story is as captivating as it is inspiring. From his humble beginnings as a dishwasher to the proud proprietor of the charming Sherman Inn, Carlos's story isn’t just about achieving success, but it's about the resilience of the human spirit. Brace yourself to be moved by the tale of a man who transformed an elementary school into an event space and boutique hotel, and learn how his unique perspective on life and business can inspire your own journey.
Dive into the fascinating world of event planning, as we navigate the challenges and rewards of this dynamic industry. Carlos and our hosts dissect the intricacies of planning events in a small community, the importance of relationships with vendors, and the evolving roles in today's wedding ceremonies. We also venture into the unique dynamics of running a business on a farm and discuss the varying trends that emerge with the changing seasons. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone involved in or interested in the event planning industry.
The final part of our discussion is a profound reflection on self-care, productivity, and the healing power of saying no. Carlos shares his insights on the importance of striking a balance between work and personal life, and how doing so has contributed to his success. As we reflect on the year 2023 and look ahead to 2024, Carlos's heartfelt reflections on his life journey and his gratitude for the support he's received offer valuable lessons in humility, resilience, and personal growth. So, come join us in this enlightening episode, and prepare to be inspired.

Support the show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlynativeflowerfarm/

Website: https://wildlynativeflowerfarm.com/
Hungry Root Code: FLOWER40
Hungry Root Link: https://www.hungryroot.com/?promo=FLOWER40&b=1084&utm_source=the-flower-files&utm_medium=partnership&utm_campaign=podcast

Garden Goal Planner: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/gardenplanner

Cut-Flower Guide: https://wildlynative.myflodesk.com/oyihkn1nwz