Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Christy Hulsey.

A BIT OF BACKGROUND…

Flowers found me, not the other way around. In 2012, a 50-year-old flower shop fell into my lap. To keep it alive without much talent, skill, or money, I relied on the only resources I had: Internal conviction, a journalism degree (of all things), childhood days sent to the garden by Grandma, luck, and really supportive people. Fortunately for me, storytelling, honesty, authenticity, and grace effortlessly transfer into the magical world of flowers. In six years, I’ve had the honor of doing things that make me think, after telling everybody I am not a florist, that maybe I am. I’ve had the honor of representing the USA in Shanghai, Beijing, and Kunming. I’m a winner of the Mayesh Design Star competition and worked at the White House, Coastal Living, Southern Living, Quito’s Agriflor, and for celebrities. I’ve also worked on a Rose Bowl float, and I’m the only florist in UGA’s 40 Under 40 class. In the flower shop I’ve worked in janitorial, deliver y, retail, events, been a video personality, manager, and educator. I am original, tenacious, loyal, resilient, quiet at times, artistic, and dyslexic. In August, I moved from my hometown to Atlanta, Georgia—and I love it

1. When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?

I started designing four years ago, but I’d say it’s been with me the whole time, so it began developing at birth. My designs aren’t typical: They ’re whimsical compilations of seasonally relevant flowers, fruits, and leaf y branches, a bit street and a bit haute, inspired by nature. And they reflect the spirit of my grandmother who loved gardening.

2. What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends and flower designs?

Nobody says, “it’s flower time!” like this next generation. We’re in a floral renaissance because of the un-bouquets and the DIY-ers who like amusing flowers that are funny, unusual, and mischievous. They like story-rich, rebellious product, and find anything that photographs well and has a hashtag irresistible.

3. Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?

Weather, music, my children, my husband, and my mood— everything’s included in a floral design recipe. And you know what? Rio Roses has a flower for that! Seriously, the selection is vast. Further, I am drawn to the familial origins of the company that started in 1986. I am also appreciative of their effort to empower florists, with blogs, social postings, and digital magazines.

Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Hellen Miller, AIFD, CFD, CF.

A BIT OF BACKGROUND…

Derek joined the floral industry at the age of 16, when he began learning floral design in vocational school. He continued to study the trade through institutes such as Michigan State University, the Great Lakes Floral Association, SAF, and AIFD. In 2008 he launched his own business, Floral Underground. Derek is a North American Floral Design Champion, spending many years polishing the practice of floral design competition. This love of competition has won him numerous awards, including second runner-up on a television floral design reality show called “ The Arrangement ”. He was also the winner of the 2016 Sylvia Cup Design Competition.

1. When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?

I really began to push the boundaries of floral design in the world of competition. Winning my   first competition at the age of 16, I caught the bug! I really believe that floral design competition pushes your creativity and time management skills, and makes you an overall better designer. I gain inspiration mostly from other designers. The way that others design is   often so different from the way that I might do it, and I find that so inspiring!

2. What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends and flower designs?

Today’s consumer is my favorite audience when it comes to flower trends. The millennial buyer is drawn to “experiential retail” which pushes a florist to be hyper-aware of all the senses when it comes to the retail shopping experience. I love to provide that experience, but I also love to be a fly on the wall during that process.

3. Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?

Rio has an amazing offering of floral product—some of the most stunning product I have worked with, both in my business and while traveling the country and speaking in and out of the industry. Rio’s flowers are jaw-dropping to retailers and consumers alike, and it is truly a joy to use such beautiful flowers.

Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Donny Johnson, AIFD, CFD, TCF

A bit of background…

Donny Johnson is a floral artist known for his passion, creativity, and determination to strengthen the floral industry. He began his career in the floral arts over 20 years ago, when he was a delivery driver while in high school. After attending Baylor University, Donny discovered that his passion for flowers had not diminished. Setting his degree aside, he began an unpaid apprenticeship at a Texas floral shop, where he spent the next year developing his design skills.

Donny has garnered numerous awards over his career, and he is an accredited member of AIFD. He serves as President of the Tennessee State Florist’s Association, President of Teleflora (Tennessee Unit), Director of the CTPFA board, and Director on the Southern Chapter of AIFD.

Recently, at the age of 39, Donny received the Central Tennessee Professional Florists’ Association’s Monica Bramblett Lifetime Achievement Award for going above and beyond in service, commitment, and leadership to the floral industry.

When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?           

I believe your designs are a continually evolving process: As your knowledge grows, so does your skillset. One way that I find inspiration is through participating in various competitions; in doing so, I’m able to see how one objective can result in a variety of designs. I also continually study many amazing designers, attend shows, and love to utilize the arts as a springboard for my imagination.

What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends and flower designs? 

To reach new generations, I believe we’ll need to spend more time repositioning ourselves in branding, digital marketing, and engagement. Trends will continue to change. Business paradigms continue to change. Floral art continues to change. We must meet the culture where it is, not where it was—to not do this is detrimental to any business or industry. Blockbuster Video is a perfect example of “too little, too late”.

Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?     

Rio Roses has a proven commitment to continually promote and strengthen our industry and local shops, by providing quality products. Their products are a staple for creating designs that will be showstoppers. The quality and care are evident from the moment they arrive.

Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Abel Gonzalez Mencio, CFD, TMF.

A bit of background…

Abel Gonzalez Mencio, CFD, TMF, has been active in the floral industry for more than 37 years. His passion for floral engineering, prom, and Texas spirit wear designs has led him to showcase his unique brand through his design studio, Casa Granada Floral in South Texas.

A professional member of both the Texas and Louisiana State Florists Associations, Abel has been a featured designer throughout the United States and Mexico, offering his friendly, comfortable, and down-home approach to marketing and design.

Passionate about promoting quality within our industry, Abel is an Ambassador for Rio Roses and is a trendsetter who shares regularly on social media. He is a Texas Master Florist, a Certified Floral Designer, and will be inducted into the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) in 2020. Abel currently holds the title as the LSFA 2019 Louisiana State Designer of the Year.

When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?

My floral journey began as a delivery driver for a small family floral shop, and I never looked back. Along the way I have worked with true giants in our industry, who have shown me the path to floral artistry. As the Director of Marketing and Design for Acolyte LED, I was able to immerse myself and feed my insatiable desire for knowledge.

My inspiration for floral design is that it should be a true creative outlet, one that is calming and reassuring. As florists, we are entrusted to interpret all of life’s transitions and celebrations, from birth to death, and that in itself never ceases to amaze me. Flowers truly express your most sincere emotions and contain the deepest expression of love known to man. They are Earth’s way of showing off!

In designing, I draw my inspiration from the everyday, studying trends the world over and interpreting those ideas in my own unique way. My creative passion comes from the heart: Flowers truly have a way of talking to me, and I respond by designing with them; all I have to do is listen to them speak.

What is your vision for new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends, and flower designs?

I foresee floral stylists becoming true ambassadors of the floral industry. I see the future as one where we openly share our commitment, skills, and communication. It’s all about growth through knowledge. I also think that while unique, high-style designs are beautiful and intricately arranged, the basic dozen roses or vase arrangements will never go out of style, since they convey a calming reassurance in a crazy world.

Is there anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?

How does one truly describe working with the world’s finest floral products available in today’s market? Simply put: Roses! Inspiration! Opportunity!

I trust in Rio for the freshest and most beautiful roses. Their commitment to my design success through innovative new products has inspired me from the very start, and the opportunity to share my passion with others makes all the difference in the world to me.

Jackie Lacey

Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Jackie Lacey, AIFD, AAF, CFD, PFCI.

A bit of background…
As the owner of shops in three different states, co-creator of Floriology Institute and world-renowned floral educator, Jackie Lacey’s dream is to share as much energy and passion for floral artistry as possible. He has a vast background in retail floristry, wedding and event design, as well as being a presenter and commentator both nationally and internationally. As the National President-elect of AIFD, he feels he has reached a pinnacle on his floral journey. Helping forge the future of AIFD aligns perfectly with his lifelong commitment to expand the appreciation of the art of floristry.

When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?             

I’ve spent more than 30 years in the retail floral market and floral education industry. My style changes, as does the industry, with all that we continue to see become available. I believe that your style should develop as your expertise does. Look for inspiration in everything you see and THAT will help your skills grow. Plant the seed of desire, water it with education, and watch it grow with knowledge.

What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends and flower designs?  

I have always had the desire to teach others how to manipulate their creativity and express the beauty of flowers in everyday life. Generations to come need only to be shown how to incorporate this beauty into their lives and then it becomes a necessity for them; every generation will buy what they feel they need. As floral trends change so does the industry—if you don’t have the passion it will become a chore.

Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?                                                     

One of the first things I learned in this industry was “If you want to be the best, work with the best.” Rio Roses has some of the most beautiful varieties on the market and distinctive quality.

Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Adam Havrilla, AIFD AAF FSMD CFD.

A bit of background…

Adam Havrilla is an accredited member of AIFD, member of SAF’s Professional Floral Communicators International, and an Illinois Certified Floral Designer. His original and artistic designs have garnered numerous awards, including the coveted 2016 & 2018 Iron Designer title from the International Floriculture Expo.

Throughout his career as a professional floral artist and speaker, Adam has given back to the industry through education and industry involvement. Adam has served as President of the Illinois State Florists’ Association and is currently the President of the National Alliance of Floral Associations.

1. When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?

I began my flower journey 20 years ago in a family-owned flower shop. Early on I realized that I wanted to be a floral designer, I just had to find a way to achieve it. So, I studied with the lead designers at the shop, read every floral magazine available, and took any class I could. Later in my career I was fortunate to start working in downtown Chicago in a design building. This was the moment my life changed as a designer. I was surrounded by amazing interior and fashion design and I couldn’t wait to express it with floral. My vision to design was opened up in a whole new way.

2. What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends and flower designs?

The best advice I can give to new generations is to learn about the industry. Take classes, be active in floral associations, take the journey to becoming AIFD. All these opportunities will help you stay on-trend and learn how to be better in business and achieve your goals. The industry is continually evolving, and you need to be part of it. Say “Yes” when asked to attend or volunteer at an event. These relationships and experiences will enhance your career in ways you could never dream of.

3. Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?

Rio Roses has always been a staple in my floral designs.  I cannot thank Rio Roses enough for producing amazing products and being such a great supporter of the floral industry. You are an example of what keeps our industry moving.

Jacob McCall

Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Jacob McCall, AIFD AAF FSMD CFD.

You have an incredible background, Jacob. Tell us a bit about yourself.

Well, I’ve worked in some way, shape, or form within the floral industry for over 20 years, and I’m an international design competitor and instructor. In 2015, I had the honor of representing the USA in the Interflora World Cup held in Berlin, Germany. I’m also a past winner of the prestigious Sylvia Cup competition and two-time Iron Designer of America winner. I currently sit on the national board of directors for American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) as a Director-at-large. I am also a member of the FTD education team.

Throughout the years, I’ve had the pleasure of designing for celebrity clients such as Diana Ross, Jessica Simpson, and Tiger Woods. I’ve been a retailer, event designer, reality show personality, manager, educator and product development expert. Today, I’m super excited about my current dual roles as Creative Director for an amazing floral grower, P&F Flower Farms, and the legendary Knud Nielsen company!

When did you start developing these amazing flower designs, and where do you get your inspiration?

Over the years, I’ve crafted a unique look of grandeur within the designs I create. When designs were minimalistic, my motto was “Go big or go home”. When I’m in competition mode, I believe in perfection and detail: Even though my designs are sometimes large and oversized, it’s the detail that’s the winning ticket. Color always inspires me—I love mixing complementary colors and textures.

What led you to start educating others in floral design?

My background is in entertainment; I worked for several years at Walt Disney World as a performer and even went to college to pursue a degree in Theater and Performing Arts. When I saw Deborah De La Flor educate at a local wholesale house many years ago, she inspired me beyond measure, and I’ve been educating ever since. I believe giving back our knowledge and carrying on a legacy of floral education is extremely important. I’ve been so fortunate to educate all around the globe, and I learn new things in each class or show. After all, if we stop learning, how can we educate!

What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends and flower designs?

These kids are smart! The public—especially the younger generations—are visual learners, and education and information are readily available via applications, social media, internet and marketing. I believe a huge shift is happening within the world of flowers. Florists, don’t be shocked when a young person walks in and asks for a Gloriosa Lily or a dozen James Story Orchids. That’s right—they know them by their names. As retailers, event designers and even educators, it’s our responsibility to take education and our customer service skills to the next level.

As far as trends, “Tropical Nuevo” has swept the USA! Check out major retailers for textiles and prints. I’m seeing beautiful tropical foliage married with large focal and form flowers, in colors ranging from hot and soft pinks to apricot, saffron and forest greens. Also, a long-awaited resurgence of dried flowers is popping up everywhere; beautiful dried herbs and flowers are gracing home decor stores all over the globe.

Are there any specific trends you see coming in the near future?

I mentioned dried florals, right? I’m seeing a range of “What’s old is new again”: Items we used 20 to 30 years ago are resurfacing, even design techniques we did way-back-when are making a comeback! As far as color, rich jewel tones and pastels seem to be profound on the market these days. Also an eco-friendly trend is sweeping through not only the USA but the world: As people become more aware of environmental issues, I’m seeing the use of plastics basically being eliminated. Earth-friendly packaging will replace the use of plastics. Paper and recyclable packaging will be the way of the future!

Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?

I am super excited to be an ambassador for Rio Roses, as Rio/Equiflor is a sister company to P&F Flower Farms. As the creative director for P&F, I get to use the gorgeous product Rio produces. For many years, I have sought the best in quality, and I wholeheartedly feel Rio is the best!

From time to time, LivRio will feature Interviews with some of the industry’s most interesting Floral Designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends in the industry. This month, we interviewed Matthew Blind and Garrett Skupinski, who recently teamed up with Rio Roses to conduct a class at the Great Lakes Floral and Event Expo entitled, “One Dozen Roses One Dozen Ways”.

Garrett Skupinski, CF

Garrett is an internationally-recognized designer as a Floral Fundamentals Ambassador, winning many design awards internationally. His love for haute couture experimental design styles, unique large-scale displays, and international design techniques is evident in his work. Garrett’s passion for floral education and design has taken him throughout the United States, Canada, and multiple countries in Europe.

When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?

I had an amazing teacher at a young age, and strong mentors pushing me to continually seek further education and floral experiences to develop my skills. But no matter what level I achieve, it’s important to remember that there’s always something new to learn and many are currently “reinventing the wheel”. Finding inspiration is just as much of an adventure as creating the design! Everything inspires me, from senses to the waves of the ocean; it often depends on what I’m creating or the task I’m trying to achieve.

What led you to start educating others in floral design?

I got my start in education because I wanted to reciprocate what was given to me as a student. I was privileged to be able to return to high school classes and share my passion for design with the next generation, the future of our industry. Even though I’ve been able to travel internationally and share my floral passion with others, it’s still very important to me to always be available to younger designers and those seeking to learn and grow.

What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flowers trends, and flower designs?

Unfortunately, I have no expectations for the future of floral design. I have hopes but am intrigued to see what happens. Younger generations are continuously struggling financially as the economic divide expands. I feel that flowers will become even more of a luxury, with less people being able to enjoy flowers in a very short time.

Which flowers do you consider the trendiest moving forward?

At one time it was the individual flower that was popular, but now it’s more about the attributes of the flower. People are looking for colors, textures, and other attributes in a more aware way, but there will still be favorites such as peonies, orchids and so on. It’s our responsibility to continually educate our consumer and strive to not always work with trend, but what is actually correct for our customers and designs.

Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?

Rio Roses has been there for everything from international competitions to personal floral jewelry. The ever-expanding variety of products and quality makes Rio Roses one of my one-stop shops for my variety of projects and floral adventures.

Matthew “Coach” Blind

Matthew is a freelance floral and mixed media designer based in St. Louis, Missouri. His love of flowers started at an early age, and the passion grew into a career that’s taken him across the country to collaborate with other designers. Seeking ways to share his love of flowers and floral design with the world, he began teaching workshops and classes in 2018 with other professionals and passionate amateur designers alike.

What is your inspiration for your floral design classes and workshops?

When we started working on this project, I had some conceptual ideas I knew I wanted to touch base on. I had previously played around a little bit with the galaxy painting technique I do, but I knew I wanted to expand upon that for a multiple design collection. Garrett and I worked together to establish a few themes that we both could play with, like geometry and contrast, and tribal, because we wanted to showcase our different design aesthetics while given the same topic. Since the contrast pieces I was working on were solely black and white, it seemed fitting for me to create a rainbow collection to really play with the full spectrum of Rio products. Inspiration can strike me anywhere, from the structural lines of architecture to the vibrant colors of street art to the natural geometry of green spaces here in the city. When you open yourself to the beauty that surrounds you, inspiration is all around.

What role do you feel education plays in the life of a floral designer?

Education is crucial. Even though I haven’t been in the industry a very long time, I am constantly immersing myself into education. There is no wrong way or right way to design, but through education you are able to learn techniques other designers have mastered and apply them in new ways to your designs. The more techniques you have in your repertoire, the more interesting your designs become. I also began educating others while freelancing with other designers, showing them tips I had picked up along the way, and taking some of their new ideas with me.

What opportunities do you see in the floral industry when it comes to younger generations?

Younger generations want high impact at a low cost. The traditional things we have been selling need an update for new generations to take notice. Introducing new colors and varieties like Rio’s Hypnosis Carnations, that offer subtle twists on things they already are familiar with, is a great way to get millennials interested. Mixing classic florals with tropical and exotic foliage is another way to pique interest.

Are there any specific trends you see coming in the near future?

I think moving forward, we are going to see a return to some classics that have fallen out of favor in the past few years. I am absolutely LOVING the new varieties of multicolored and variegated Carnations that Rio has been releasing. I think being a “value flower” that still offers a stunning appearance with longevity will make them very popular among the younger generations. My favorite flower is Ranunculus, so I want to see those everywhere I can! I am VERY excited to get my hands on some of the new Rio hydroponic Hanoi Ranunculus!

How do you feel about your relationship with Rio Roses?

I am so grateful for the support Rio has given me! It’s wonderful to feel so supported by such a fantastic company, and I can’t wait for the opportunity to partner with Rio again. I am also looking forward to more new amazing products to be released, as the Jungle Exotics and Foliage collections are a fantastic addition to the top-quality products Rio offers.