As a passionate New England floral designer, I’ve always believed in the power of connections– not only with the flowers I arrange or with my clients but also with the people who cultivate them. 

My commitment to nurturing relationships with local flower farmers isn’t just a professional choice, it’s a source of immense joy, pride, and inspiration.

By building genuine friendships with these dedicated farmers, I’ve gained an invaluable insight into the world of floriculture. This bond allows me to be closely involved in selecting the best flower varieties – blooms that don’t just look beautiful but also thrive in our local environment, ensuring both quality and suitability for my designs.

My participation in the Connecticut Flower Collective is a testament to this commitment. I have been a supporter of this collective right from its inception, initially as a buyer from the farm that laid its groundwork.

It’s here that I collaborate closely with growers, chatting about new varieties and sharing ideas that help us all. This collaboration ensures that the flowers in my arrangements are not only locally sourced but are also the freshest and most unique for my clients.

Real-time communication with farmers is crucial, especially for event-specific floral needs. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, or a simple gathering, having direct contact with the growers lets me fulfill specific color palettes and looks, rather than being constrained by specific flower types. This approach ensures that every arrangement is not only stunning but also perfectly tailored to the occasion.

So, why is building these relationships so important? Join me as we dive deeper into the world of farm-to-vase, exploring the benefits and joys of connecting with local flower farms.

What is Farm to Vase?

You might have heard about farm-to-table, a concept that’s almost everywhere these days. Well, let me introduce you to Farm to Vase – it’s like the floral world’s answer to that, but with a twist that’s all its own.

Farm-to-vase isn’t just a trendy phrase. It’s a commitment to bringing the freshest, most vibrant pieces of our local landscape directly into your event. Every bloom, every green sprig comes with a unique story – stories that begin in the hands of the farmers I collaborate with. 

Our relationships enable me to offer you something genuinely unique and personal. 

When you come to me with a specific style or theme in mind, I think about the local farms, the rhythm of the seasons, and what nature is offering at the moment. It’s like having a direct line to Mother Nature, working together to bring your floral vision to life.

When you wonder, “What is Farm to Vase?” it’s really all about a promise. A promise to always use fresh, New England local blooms in my arrangements, to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us, and to maintain genuine connections with the local farmers who grow these flowers.

Sustainability and Local Collaboration

Working with the farmers is like having a neighbor who’s also your go-to garden expert. We share tips and support each other. If I’m wondering about new seed varieties, the vase life of hybrid varieties, or stem length for wedding bouquets, they’re ready with all the answers. 

And it’s not just about getting advice. It’s about giving back too. When I collaborate with the local farmers, it’s like we’re a team. Together, we grow and learn, each of us supporting the other’s business. It’s a partnership where we both benefit, helping each other thrive. There’s a lot of mutual respect and collaboration to bring each floral design to life.

Adapting to what’s in season is a big part of what I do. 

And I couldn’t do it without the flower farmers I rely on!

Unlike some florists who may rely on non-local sources and stick rigidly to specific flower varieties, I embrace the ebb and flow of local availability. While I do use traditional wholesalers to compliment designs as needed, the value of locally grown products is a priority during growing seasons.

Farm-to-vase is like cooking a meal with whatever’s fresh and available that day. More often than not, I go in with a plan, but then I see these amazing sweet peas that were just harvested, and I think, “Okay, we’re going with these today!” 

Shopping the local market floor is what often offers a “wow” moment in the bouquet design. It keeps things exciting and fresh, and it’s a fun challenge to match the trends with what nature gives us at that moment.

Sometimes, a flower that a client requests might not have fared well that season or could be difficult to source. This is why I never promise a certain bloom variety! By focusing on what’s locally available, I not only uphold sustainability but also bring a unique, authentic touch to each arrangement.

In this world of farm-to-vase, it’s all about being connected – to the earth, to each other, and to the community. 

And honestly, that’s what makes each bouquet so much more than just a bunch of flowers.