The Flower School Business Podcast From Kays Flower School

The ”Profit & Pain Point” Focus - Why Your Floral Business Isn’t Making Money

Are you a passionate floral designer who loves working with flowers but struggles with the business side of floristry? You are definitely not alone. Many florists start their journeys out of pure creative passion, only to find themselves burnt out, underpricing their work, and overwhelmed by wholesale logistics, unpredictable cash flow, and intense local competition.In this episode, we sit down with Caitriona to solve the ultimate industry problem.How to transition from a stressed, underpaid creative to a profitable, confident floral business owner. Whether you are trying to figure out how to start a flower business from scratch, transitioning from retail to a studio florist model, or trying to scale your current wedding and event floral design business, Caitriona shares the exact, actionable framework you need. We break down how to stop over-buying stems, how to price your arrangements for actual profit, and how to attract high-paying clients who value your unique artistry.Ready to stop struggling and start growing? Hit that SUBSCRIBE button, leave a comment with your biggest business hurdle, and let’s get your floral business blooming!Follow Caitriona Holt on Instagram :- https://www.instagram.com/catriona.holt/Book a audit with Caitriona today and know your numbers :- https://calendly.com/catrionaholt/30min?month=2026-06 ________________________________________________________________________________________Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

From ”Can’t Grow Parsley” to Garden Guru: Linda Sheehan’s Rock Barton Journey

Welcome back to The Flower School Podcast! In this episode, host Deirdre sits down with the fabulous Linda Sheehan, founder of the Rock Barton Garden School in Limerick. If you have ever felt overwhelmed by your garden or assumed you lacked a green thumb because you "couldn't even grow parsley," this conversation is for you! Linda shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a 20-year career in banking to managing a busy retail garden center for a decade, and finally pivoting to her true passion: teaching. We dive deep into the absolute basics of learning to grow flowers and veg successfully without the fluff or the pressure of perfection. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to grow vegetables using simple, foolproof starting points like window-box lettuce and herbs. The best beginner-friendly cut flowers to cultivate, including the unbeatable, long-lasting Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria). Expert tips on choosing and pruning resilient foliage like Pittosporum and Silver Sussex for gorgeous floral arrangements. Why embracing garden "failures" is actually the secret to becoming a more confident grower. Whether you are an aspiring micro-flower farmer, a florist looking to cultivate your own unique foliage, or a complete beginner wanting to taste the unmatched flavor of home-grown salads, Linda's practical, down-to-earth advice will get you growing with confidence. Connect with Rock Barton Garden School -Website - https://rockbarton.ie/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rockbartongardenschool/Explore upcoming seasonal workshops, beginner gardening courses, and unique team-building events at rockbarton.ie! https://rockbarton.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/76819?catID=72204&Be sure to follow Linda on social media for behind-the-scenes tips and reality-checked gardening wisdom. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

DIY Floral Magic with Amy McCord, Anyone Can Be a Florist?

Making Magic with FlowersIn this episode of the Flower School Podcast, we talk with the gorgeous Amy McCord from Flower Moxie. Amy is an expert at helping people make their own beautiful flower decorations for weddings and parties. She tells us how she went from working with science and biology to starting her own flower business. Amy explains that anyone can make something pretty if they have the right instructions.Amy believes that you do not have to be a professional to work with flowers. Her business helps people feel brave enough to try it on their own for their own wedding, not for everyone but definitely for some Simple is Best You do not need many different types of flowers to make a bouquet look good. Amy suggests picking just a few favorites to keep things easy and pretty.Practice is Important It is okay to make mistakes when you first start. Amy says practicing before a big event helps you feel more ready and less nervous.Use a Good Plan Amy provides recipes and videos to show people exactly how many flowers they need. Having a clear plan makes the work much faster and more fun.Amy McCord's new book, titled Blooms Every Day, is set to be released on May 5, 2026. The book is designed to be very practical and accessible, offering step-by-step instructions and "recipes" for creating floral arrangements at home.The book includes projects for beginners, intermediate learners, and those with more experience.It teaches readers how to create beautiful displays using flowers that can be found at local grocery stores.The arrangements featured in the book are "foam-free," which is a more modern and environmentally friendly way to style flowers.Amy worked with a stylist and photographer to make sure the book feels fun and creative rather than stiff or intimidating.The book includes "Skill Spotlights" that teach technical floral design methods, such as the "tap and twist" spiral technique Amy learned from the Kay's Flower School team.To purchase the book check out this link here - https://geni.us/BloomsEveryDayTo follow Amy and Flower Moxie, check her out on Instagram you will always learn new skills and tips - https://www.instagram.com/flowermoxie/Grab the link to the viral Tulip Bouquet we chat about in this podcast - https://kays-flower-school-brooch-bouquet-training.thinkific.com/courses/viral-tulip-wired-bouquetOr go one step further for the Professional All Wired Wedding Bouquets - https://kays-flower-school-brooch-bouquet-training.thinkific.com/courses/wired-wedding-designs - use the code flowermoxie for a 50% Discount on this course 🌸 Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

Blooming Together: Why Every Florist Needs a Community

What is & Who are the British Florist Association?In this episode of the Flower School Podcast, Deirdre sits down with John Davidson(Chairperson) and Katrina Skybak Doyle from the British Florist Association (BFA) to talk all about the world of flowers! Have you ever wondered what a "trade association" is? Think of it like a giant club or a support team for people who work with flowers, everyone from the shops on your local street to people who grow the flowers in big fields. In this podcast with the British Florist Association you will learn: The History: Did you know the BFA started way back in 1917? That’s over 100 years ago! It is a "Club" for everyone: It is not just for flower shops. It is for students, flower farmers, and even people who have retired but still love flowers. Competitions:They talk about how florists can enter contests to win "the Oscars of the flower world" and show off their amazing designs. [cite: 245, 248]Cool Events:Learn about Fleurex,A massive flower show where people come from all over to see beautiful displays, meet wholesalers, watch demonstrations, network and learn new skills.New Memberships:John and Katrina explain their new "Community Membership" for people who just love flowers and want to be part of the group, even if they live outside the UK! Whether you are a student just starting out or you just think flowers are cool, this chat explains why it’s so important for people in the flower industry to work together and help each other.Check out the BFA website to learn more about their events and how to join the flower community! https://britishfloristassociation.org/Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britishfloristassociation/Follow them on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/britishfloristassociationhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/british-florist-association/posts/?feedView=allDon’t forget to Like and Subscribe for more flower power stories!______________________________________________________________________🌸 Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-schoolOverseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

The Secret Language of Flowers with Teresa Sabankaya

In this episode of the Kay's Flower School Podcast host Deirdre sits down with California based florist and author Teresa Sabankaya to explore the fascinating world of Modern FloriographyWhat is Floriography? Floriography is the practice of using flowers or floral arrangements to convey specific messages, stories, or sentiments through symbolism.A Timeless Tradition, While it flourished during the Victorian era, Teresa explains that using flowers with intent is a practice that dates back centuries.Teresa’s work aims to bring this historical practice into the modern day, providing a deeper human connection in a world dominated by digital communication.Teresa's book serves as a DIY manual, a reference for history, and an art book all in one for anyone who loves flowersTeresa illustrated the entire book by hand (not AI!) to capture the specific details and "ephemeral" feeling of the gardens she designed.The New Language of Flowers DictionaryIncludes an abridged version of Teresa's extensive dictionary, featuring traditional meanings and new definitions she developed for modern plants like Coleus.You will find Teresa's Book anywhere that sells books - Modern Floriography - Flowers, Gardens, and Gifts Inspired by the Language of Flowershttps://teresasabankaya.com/Teresa is open to any questions at all, contact here on hello@teresasabankaya.com https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Modern-Floriography/Teresa-Sabankaya/9781964686677We have a million ways to communicate in the miasma of smartphones, artificial intelligence, and social media. Yet we are often left searching for words when faced with a declaration of love, the loss of someone dear, or the marking of a truly pivotal moment. For centuries, people have turned to the language of flowers to express their most poignant and heartfelt emotions. Modern Floriography: Flowers, Gardens, and Gifts Inspired by the Language of Flowers honors this enduring tradition while inviting readers to discover fresh, creative forms of expression. Part self-reflection, part floral design,and part history, this beautifully illustrated book offers inspiration for gardeners, flower enthusiasts, and anyone who believes meaningful gifts speak volumes.Teresa Sabankaya thoughtfully guides readers on a journey of the human spirit through her evocative floral arrangements, sentiment-driven gardens, and imaginative posy possibilities.With Modern Floriography in hand, readers are encouraged to visit their local farmers’ market, or even the neighborhood grocery store, and select a fragrant, colorful assortment of flowers and plants. Teresa also provides a carefully curated collection of online resources to support this exploration of floriography. As the book’s luminous photography, floral design recipes, illustrated gardens, and abridged dictionary reveal, a rose is never just a rose.________________________________________________________________________Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

From Florist to VA: Reclaiming Your Creative Time with Carole Wickham

This podcast episode features Carole Wickham, a specialized Virtual Assistant (VA) who combines over 35 years of admin experience with a professional background in floristry to help floral business owners reclaim their time.Key TakeawaysWhat is a Floral VA?: A virtual assistant can handle nearly every aspect of a floristry business except for the physical assembly of bouquets. This includes managing inquiries, invoicing, order processing, and customer relationship management.The Power of "Holding Emails": Carole emphasizes the importance of instantaneous acknowledgement. She uses "holding emails" to let customers know their inquiry has been received and will be addressed, preventing potential clients from jumping to a competitor.Financial Benefits: Hiring a VA is often more cost-effective than a traditional employee. There are no overheads like pensions, national insurance, sick pay, or physical office space—you only pay for the productive hours worked.Specialized Floral Knowledge: Because Carole has owned her own shop and studio, she understands industry-specific peaks like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, as well as tools like CRM systems (e.g., 17 Hats) and accounting software (e.g., Xero or QuickBooks).Scaling Your Business: By delegating tasks like proposal document creation (which can take 20–30 minutes per client), florists can focus on high-value creative work or on-site wedding setups.About Carole WickhamCarole transitioned from a corporate career in the NHS to becoming a certified florist, eventually running both a retail shop and a home studio. She now uses that dual expertise to provide admin support that speaks the "language" of floristry.Connect with Carole:LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-wickham-01248867/ Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/carole.virtualpa/?hl=en Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082731102847 Free Resource:Check the link in the description for Carole’s 7-Day Inbox Management Detox to help you get your emails under control#FloristTips #FloralBusiness #VirtualAssistant #WeddingFlorist #EntrepreneurLife #FloralPodcast #SmallBusinessGrowth____________________________________________________________________Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

Blooming at Any Age - its never too late to change career

It’s never too late to follow a passion: Pauline started her floristry business at 48, showing that career changes can happen successfully later in life. Pauline talks about turning adversity into opportunity when her husband, George, had a massive heart attack in 2012, which led him to study horticulture and ultimately inspired them to start their floristry business together.Pauline and George balance each other’s strengths. While Pauline is the creative "crazy" one, George provides the logical and sensible grounding for the business.After moving their business from a shop back to their home in 2022, they turned their house into a lively, working studio.The value of online learning: Despite initial resistance, Pauline found that online courses allowed her to revisit material, take better notes, and learn more effectively than in a classroom setting.Pauline emphasizes staying calm under pressure and always putting the customer’s special moment, whether it's a wedding or a funeral at the center of her work.This podcast is a must listen for anyone considering a career pivot later in life or looking for inspiration on how to turn life’s challenges into a thriving business. Pauline’s authentic storytelling, combined with her wit and passion, provides a refreshing look at the floristry industry. Whether you're interested in the logistics of running a home based family business or simply love hearing about how creativity can bloom in unexpected ways, Pauline’s journey with "Me Auld Flower & Mrs. Bouquet" is both heartwarming and practical.You will find Pauline Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

Corporate to Creative - The Path to Floristry with Leah McEvoy New Podcast Episode

In this episode, we sit down with Leah McEvoy of Anna May Floral Designs to discuss her inspiring transition from a high-pressure corporate role to owning a thriving flower shop in Rathgar.Leah shares her expert insights on what it really takes to succeed in the floral industry, from mastering wedding floral design to the logistics of running a retail business. Key Takeaways for Aspiring Florists:The Power of Re-Training: Leah discusses how she returned to her passion for flowers later in life, proving it's never too late to start your florist training.Retail vs. Studio Work: Learn the differences between running a floral studio and a busy retail shop, and which path might be right for your career.Wedding Floristry Logistics: Leah breaks down a "typical" wedding day, it's not just about the flowers, it's about meticulous planning, teamwork, and managing high-pressure environments.Managing a Team: How Leah utilizes her corporate management background to lead a team of freelancers and family members.Building a Brand: The story behind the name "Anna May Floral Designs" and the importance of emotional connection in business.Supporting Local: Why local florists offer a level of expertise and storytelling that supermarkets simply can't match.Thinking of a Career Change?If you’re looking into floristry courses or considering a professional florist career, Leah’s advice on record-keeping, staying organized (thanks, spreadsheets!), and constant learning is invaluable."Every single step of that journey was a learning experience for me... it just makes you stronger."Follow Leah McEvoy at Anna May FloristryInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/anna.may.floral.designs/Website: https://annamayfloristry.ie/Don't forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more interviews on floral education and creative entrepreneurship!#FloristTraining #FloralDesign #CareerChange #WeddingFlorist #FloristryCourses #CreativeEntrepreneur #SmallBusinessTips #FlowerDesignTraining FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourseFREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourseBeginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programmeFunding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-schoolOverseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-studentsHear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonialsHave Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

How Leonie Built a Thriving Wedding & Freelance Floristry Career from a Hobby | Blended Design

In this episode of The Flower School Podcast, we sit down with Leonie Gerrity of Blended Design, an inspiring florist and entrepreneur whose journey into the wedding and events industry has grown faster than she ever imagined.Leonie shares how she transitioned from crafting and side projects into a thriving wedding floristry and freelance career, balancing family life, a hearing impairment and the realities of running a creative business. We dive deep into freelancing in floristry, choosing the right clients, building confidence and why there’s more than one “right” path in the flower industry.This honest conversation covers everything from - moving from hobby to professional florist - freelancing for wedding florists across Ireland - building a reputation without burnout - choosing weddings that align with your life and values - why online floristry training opened doors she never expectedWhether you’re a beginner florist, considering freelancing or wondering how to build a sustainable wedding business without a shop, this episode is packed with real-world insight and encouragement.🎧 Perfect for florists, creatives and anyone dreaming of working for themselves, without sacrificing family or freedom.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe and share if you enjoy behind-the-scenes stories from the floristry world.🌸 Ready to take your love of flowers to the next level? Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who loves to dabble, we’ve got you covered! 🌸✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers

Transforming Your Career with Flower Power, The Florist on the Hill tells all

Are you dreaming of a career change that trades the corporate grind for creative blooms?In our first podcast of 2026, Deirdre welcomes Carolyn Duggan, the award-winning owner of The Florist on the Hill and the 2025 "Florist of the Year". Carolyn shares her inspiring journey of how flowers "found her" during the COVID-19 lockdown, leading her to transition from a 15-year career as a high-level visual manager into a thriving, quirky, and "disruptive" floral business.In this episode, we dive deep into:The Career Pivot: How Carolyn used her background in visual merchandising to create a unique brand identity in the floral industry.Floristry Training: Why seeking professional counsel and training is vital to avoid "expensive mistakes" when starting out.Growing a Brand: How she opened two shops in one year and built a "waiting list" for weddings years in advance.Signature Style: The secrets behind her famous "bouquet reveals" and why being "not everyone's cup of tea" is her superpower.Business Realities: A behind-the-scenes look at managing a retail shop solo while maintaining a cutting garden.Whether you are an aspiring florist looking for professional floristry training or someone considering a creative career change, Carolyn’s advice on authenticity and resilience is gold.Connect with Carolyn Duggan at The Florist on the hill -Website: https://thefloristonthehill.ie/Instagram: @thefloristonthehill - https://www.instagram.com/thefloristonthehill/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083415457021Visit the Shop: 169 Rathmines Road, Dublin Ready to start your own floral journey? Check out our training programs at [Your School Link] to gain the fundamentals of commercial floristry and retail management.✨ FREE Online Flower Taster Course – perfect for trying your hand at flower arranging!Sign up here - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubefreetastercourse🌿 FREE Flower Conditioning Program – learn how to keep your cut flowers fresh and fabulous for longer!Check it out - https://kaysflowerschool.myflodesk.com/youtubeflowerconditioningcourse💐 Beginners Floristry Program – start your journey to becoming a professional floral designer today!Explore the course - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/online-floristry-programme💰 Funding Options Available – see if you’re eligible for support towards your training in Ireland.Find out more - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/funding-to-train-at-kays-flower-school🌎 Overseas Students Welcome – learn with us from anywhere in the world!How it works - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/overseas-flower-students💬 Hear from our Students – discover how Kays Flower School transformed their floral journey.Read their stories - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/testimonials📩 Have Questions? Get in touch with us today!Contact us - https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/contact-usSubscribe to Kay's Flower School channel for our latest clipsSubscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@KaysFlowerSchool?sub_confirmation=1#Floristry #FlowerArranging #FloralDesign #FlowerDesign #FlowerArrangement #FloralArt #FloristLife #CreativeFlorist #FloralInspiration #FlowerLovers