Tired of working six days a week, chasing one-off weddings, and feeling trapped in the seasonal ups and downs of the event floral world? This episode is your roadmap to freedom. Host Yvonne Ashton sits down with Franceska McCaughan, international floral strategist and founder of The Hotel Florist®, who has revolutionized how florists think about sustainable income. From her beginnings in foster care to building a floral empire serving luxury hotels across three continents, Franceska's story proves that complete business reinvention is possible—no matter where you start. In this episode, you'll discover: How to break free from the wedding-only cycle that's keeping you stuck The key difference between being profitable and just being busy Franceska's proven strategies for creating recurring revenue streams Why hotels are the untapped goldmine most florists are missing How to scale your business beyond your own physical limitations The mindset shifts that prevent burnout and build long-term sustainability Real strategies from the Hotel Florist® Profit Method that have helped florists generate over $8 million in contracts Whether you're a seasoned florist feeling burned out or just starting to think beyond weddings, this conversation will completely shift how you approach building a sustainable floral business. Franceska shares practical, proven methods that are working right now for florists around the globe—this isn't just theory, it's a blueprint for transformation. About Franceska McCaughan: Franceska McCaughan is an international floral strategist, hospitality consultant, and the visionary behind The Hotel Florist®. She has helped florists worldwide generate over $8 million in hotel floral contracts and consults with luxury brands on floral strategy. A multiple business founder, best-selling author, and survivor-turned-thought-leader, Franceska is passionate about helping creatives build profitable, purpose-driven businesses without burning out. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Mornings with Mayesh wherever you listen to podcasts! Show notes, photos, and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/hotel-contracts-building-recurring-revenue-florists
What are the top 6 flowers you absolutely need to know about right now? Join host Yvonne Ashton as she welcomes back resident flower guru David Dahlson for another exciting flower show and tell on Mornings with Mayesh! In this episode, we reveal the top 6 stunning flower varieties that every florist, designer, and flower enthusiast needs to know about. David shares his expert insights on timing, availability, and care tips for each bloom, including two gorgeous carnation varieties, an exciting new jumbo craspedia, exclusive Degas roses, and two beautiful phlox options perfect for fall arrangements. Featured in This Episode: Carnation Opium Thrill (coming in 3 weeks) Carnation Petra with peachy pink tones and impressive 3-4 inch blooms New Jumbo Craspedia variety with nearly 2-inch diameter heads Limited edition Degas Roses in stunning gold bronze (Mayesh US exclusive) Cherry Caramel and Crème Brûlée Phlox varieties with excellent fall supply NOTE: this episode is best in video format. Show notes, photos, and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-top-6-flowers-to-know
Missed last week's live stream? Catch the replay! Host Yvonne Ashton sits down with David Dahlson to explore the incredible wave of new varieties from Rosaprima and Floraprima – over 35 introductions in just six months! Discover stunning new roses like Superstition, Champagnier, and Popcorn, plus beautiful ranunculus varieties including Cloni Nuance and Cloni Nebbia. Get the insider perspective from a true floriculture expert, not just catalog descriptions. Essential listening for florists and flower lovers alike. **For best experience, we recommend watching the video replay.** Mornings with Mayesh | Originally aired live Video replay & show notes: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-new-rosaprima-floraprima-roses-flowers-2025
What if flowers could be more than beautiful arrangements? What if they could be community art, television content, and catalysts for human connection in the most unexpected places? In this episode of Mornings with Mayesh, we sit down with Katie Lila, the visionary Flower Director behind Flowers For People and creator-host of the PBS series "FOLLOW THE BLOOMS." Broadcasting from Spokane, Katie shares her incredible journey from local floral designer to national television personality, and her bold mission to start what she calls a "flower revolution." Katie takes us behind the scenes of Season 1's most ambitious projects - from underwater mermaid gardens to professional treehouse reveals. But the real excitement comes when she discusses her open call for Season 2 submissions, actively seeking designers, growers, community planners, and artists who share her vision. In this energizing conversation, we explore Katie's dreams of floral flash mobs in subway stations, floral confetti at sporting events, and partnerships with sponsors who can see the massive potential for flowers as public art. Whether you're a seasoned floral professional or someone with a wild flower idea, Katie's infectious enthusiasm and call-to-action will inspire you to think bigger about blooms. Topics Covered: The making of PBS series "Follow the Blooms" Season 1 Behind-the-scenes stories from underwater gardens to treehouse reveals Season 2 submission process and collaboration opportunities Reaching new audiences beyond traditional floral markets The business of flowers as public art and community experiences How to get involved in the "flower revolution" Perfect for: Floral designers, event planners, PBS fans, community artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about innovative approaches to floral design. Video replay & show notes: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-katie-lila-of-follow-the-blooms
Join us for an exclusive look at the 2025 AIFD Symposium "Reflection" happening July 12-15 in Palm Springs! We sit down with symposium chair Lori Novak, a 45-year floral industry veteran, and Susan McLeary, who will be presenting at the 2026 symposium. Together, they share insider details about AIFD's 60th anniversary celebration, standout programming, what first-time attendees can expect, and advice for aspiring symposium presenters. Whether you're planning to attend or curious about what makes these events so transformative for floral designers worldwide, this conversation has something for you. Topics covered: AIFD Symposium programming, Palm Springs venue highlights, registration tips, presenter selection process, and why this milestone anniversary event is generating industry-wide excitement. Visit our blog for the show notes and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mornings-with-mayesh-inside-aifds-60th-anniversary-symposium
Join host Yvonne for an inspiring conversation with Charity Reel, Vice President of Sales at Mayesh Wholesale Floral Distributors. In this episode, Charity shares her journey from selling freight services to leading national sales operations across Mayesh's 20+ locations in 13 states. With nearly three decades at Mayesh, Charity offers insights into effective sales leadership in the floral industry, discussing specific techniques that have driven success and the pivotal moments that shaped her approach. She explores how her natural curiosity and love for people have influenced her leadership style, and reveals her philosophy that success, like fine wine, requires patience, consistent ingredients, and passionate nurturing. Listeners will discover Charity's perspective on balancing traditional relationship-based sales with emerging e-commerce opportunities, her approach to mentoring the next generation of sales professionals, and her vision for the future of wholesale floral distribution. Whether you're a seasoned floral professional or just starting your career, this episode delivers valuable takeaways on sales development, leadership, and the power of authentic connection in the floral industry. Visit our blog for the show notes and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-conversation-with-charity-reel-vp-of-sales
In this illuminating episode of Mornings with Mayesh, we dive deep into the transformative power of continuing education in the floral industry with Kristen Pulcheon, Executive Director of Fiori Florals Design Studio in Central Ohio. Since launching in January 2020, Kristen has built Fiori into a powerhouse that executes nearly $2 million in events annually. Drawing from her 20-year journey through the wedding and special events industry—spanning luxury bridal fashion, event venues, and finally floral design—Kristen shares candid insights on how ongoing education has been crucial to her team's remarkable success. As both a seasoned business owner and a bride-to-be herself (with her wedding just days away!), Kristen offers a unique perspective on excellence in floral design. She reveals her strategies for cultivating a learning culture that balances technical skills with creative development, adapting to industry shifts, and measuring the return on educational investments. Listeners will discover practical approaches to team development that can be implemented in businesses of any size, from solo floral artists to large studios. Kristen also discusses emerging trends in the industry and the skills she believes will be essential for floral professionals in the coming years. Whether you're looking to scale your floral business, enhance your design capabilities, or simply find inspiration from one of the industry's rising stars, this conversation provides valuable takeaways for anyone passionate about the world of flowers and design. Duration: 45 minutes Visit our blog for the show notes and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/how-continuing-education-elevates-floral-design-with-kristen-pulcheon
Join host Yvonne Ashton as she sits down with celebrated floral artist and educator Susan McLeary in this enlightening episode of Mornings with Mayesh. Susan, known for her boundary-pushing floral art and wearables, shares insights into her revolutionary "floral constellation" techniques that are transforming how designers approach wedding personals and wearable pieces. In this conversation, Sue reveals the inspiration behind her innovative wire armature methods that create floating, shape-shifting designs without traditional wiring, taping, or excessive use of floral glue. She discusses how these techniques produce modern, durable, and long-lasting pieces while offering practical solutions for today's professional florists. As an author, instructor, and passionate advocate for the floral industry, Susan opens up about her creative journey and provides a sneak peek at what participants can expect from her upcoming workshop with Mayesh. Whether you're looking to elevate your design skills or simply appreciate floral artistry, this episode offers valuable insights from one of the industry's most generous and innovative minds. Visit our blog for the show notes and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/susan-mcleary-innovative-floral-design-techniques Originally streamed live on May 2nd, 2025. #MorningsWithMayesh #SusanMcLeary #FloralDesign #FloristEducation
If you missed our recent "Mornings with Mayesh" live episode, don't worry, we've got you! Yvonne welcomed Mayesh's own globe-trotting flower specialist, David Dahlson, for an eye-opening presentation on new concept wholesale spray garden roses that left viewers buzzing with excitement and inspiration. This recap captures the highlights of that informative session, where David shared his insights on these brand-new varieties—their unique characteristics, growing conditions, and potential applications in floral design. Whether you're looking to incorporate these exceptional blooms into your upcoming projects or simply appreciate the artistry behind rose cultivation, this summary of David's presentation offers valuable knowledge for florists and floral designers. P.S. watch the video replay for best experience. Visit our blog for the show notes and video replay: https://blog.mayesh.com/mwm-new-spray-garden-roses
The latest replay of Mornings with Mayesh, features floral design expert Amy Balsters of The Floral Coach! In this episode, we explore the captivating world of color theory and dive deep into Pantone's 2024 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse. Whether you're planning your Valentine's Day collection or looking to stay ahead of design trends, Amy shares expert techniques for incorporating this sophisticated shade into your arrangements. Listen in as host Yvonne Ashton and Amy discuss everything from color psychology to practical design applications that will elevate your floral work. Visit our blog for the show notes and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-valentines-day-color-theory-amy-balsters
Welcome to Mornings with Mayesh with host, Yvonne Ashton. For those joining us for the first time, this is your go-to destination for all things floral design, industry insights, and inspiring conversations with incredible designers who are shaping our floral community. We are thrilled to have welcomed Ashley Overholser of Primavera and our final 2024 Mayesh Design Star. We dove into a powerful conversation about the intersection of floristry, creativity, and personal growth. Ashley's journey from discovering flowers as a path to healing to building a successful corporate floral design business is both inspiring and instructive. We explored her creative process, influenced by "The Artist's Way," and get her expert insights into the world of corporate floristry. Visit our blog for the show notes and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-corporate-floristry-ashley-overholse
NOTE: The video replay is best for this episode due to all the visuals. Join Yvonne with special guests Joey Azout, President of Alexandra Farms, and David Dahlson, our very own flower specialist. In this episode, you will discover: ✨ Popular Alexandra Farms varieties ✨ Joey's personal favorites ✨ Care & handling tips ✨ Exclusive Mayesh customer promotion Let us know what your favorite Alexandra Farms rose is in the comments below! And don't forget to place your winter standing order by October 25th with your Mayesh sales rep. Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://blog.mayesh.com/mwm-alexandra-farms-showcase-promo
Dive into our conversation with Erice McNeff of Everboom Floral Design, where we unpack: - Transitioning from weddings to brand collaborations - Pricing strategies that value your work - Navigating "exposure" opportunities - Building a killer portfolio Whether you're a seasoned florist or just starting out, this episode is packed with game-changing insights for your floral design career. Listen to the replay now and level up your floral game! Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-business-of-floral-brand-collaborations
NOTE: this episode is best enjoyed via our video replay so that you can see all of the roses. Join host Yvonne Ashton and special guest David Dahlson as they showcase breathtaking new flower varieties from Rosaprima and Floraprima. Discover stunning roses, spray roses, ranunculus, and anemones that are revolutionizing the floral industry. Perfect for florists, designers, and flower enthusiasts looking to stay ahead of the curve. Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-new-rosaprima-floraprima-flowers
In this episode of Mornings with Mayesh, host Yvonne Ashton welcomes Lyn Graves, President of the North Carolina State Florist Association (NCSFA), for an eye-opening discussion about the often-overlooked powerhouse of the floral industry: state floral associations. Lyn unpacks the treasure trove of benefits these organizations offer, from skill-building programs to invaluable networking opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned florist or just starting to bloom in the industry, this episode is packed with insights on how NCSFA membership can take your floral career to new heights. Tune in as Yvonne and Lyn explore: The rich history and significance of NCSFA Exclusive membership perks and educational initiatives A sneak peek at the upcoming SPEECHLESS 2024 convention How NCSFA is expanding its reach to neighboring states Don't miss this bouquet of knowledge that might just inspire you to join your local floral association and watch your career blossom! Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay:https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-inside-ncsfa-uncovering-the-benefits-of-state-floral-associations
Welcome to the replay of our latest Mornings with Mayesh episode, where Yvonne Ashton, our Director of Marketing, delves into the heart of the floral industry to bring you inspiring stories and innovative ideas. If you missed our live session, you're in for a treat! In this episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Madison Lee and Thalia Esparza from Flowers For Dreams, a company that's redefining what it means to be a florist in today's world. These talented designers shared their journey from floral novices to key players in their company's wedding design team, proving that passion and purpose can bloom into beautiful careers. During our conversation, we explored Flowers For Dreams' unique business model, which includes donating a quarter of their net profits to local charities. Madison and Thalia gave us an inside look at how this commitment shapes their company culture and impacts their community. We also discussed their innovative approach to floral design, including their use of locally sourced blooms and their creative community events. From Ice Cream Socials to Mother's Day Memorial installations, these initiatives showcase how florists can engage with their communities in meaningful ways. Whether you're a professional florist looking for fresh ideas, a flower enthusiast curious about sustainable practices, or someone interested in how businesses can make a positive impact, this episode has something for you. So sit back, maybe even arrange some flowers while you listen, and enjoy this inspiring conversation about how Flowers For Dreams is sowing seeds of change in the floral industry. Let's dive in! Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://blog.mayesh.com/mwm-flowers-for-dreams
In this exciting episode, Yvonne Ashton sits down with Jazmin Albarran, MBA, the Executive Director of Seed Your Future (SYF), for an in-depth conversation about inspiring the next generation of plant and flower professionals. Discover the incredible work SYF is doing to promote horticulture and expand career opportunities in the field. Jazmin shares valuable insights on: 🌱 The mission and impact of Seed Your Future 📚 Free resources available through SYF 🗓️ The significance of Green Career Week and other upcoming events 🤝 The critical role of the floral industry in reaching the next generation of employees 💪 Ways to support and get involved with SYF's efforts Whether you're a seasoned industry professional, a student exploring career options, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and importance of plants and flowers, this podcast episode is sure to inspire and inform. Listen in and discover how we can all play a part in cultivating a bright future for the floral industry! Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-next-generation-of-plant-flower-professionals
In this week's episode, host Yvonne Ashton sits down with Becky Hillis, the Creative Director of Accent Decor, for an enlightening conversation about the latest trends in floral hardgoods and what the future holds for the industry. Accent Decor has been a leading innovator in the floral world, consistently setting trends with their exquisite ceramics, glassware, and event pieces. Becky shares her unique insights and expertise, providing valuable information for florists looking to stay ahead of the curve. Get ready to be inspired! Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://www.mayesh.com/blog/mwm-hardgood-trends-with-accent-decor
Angelina Prikhodko, the owner of Fleur Studio, offers valuable advice and insights for running a successful retail flower shop. From the importance of building a strong relationship with a sales rep to the significance of branding and niche, Angelina shares her experiences and lessons learned. She also discusses her plans for the future, including opening a second Fleur Studio location and potentially offering teaching and training services. Angelina's passion for retail floristry and her desire to help others in the industry make her a valuable resource for aspiring and current retail florists. Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://blog.mayesh.com/mwm-retail-florist-angelina-prikhodko
Join us in this captivating episode of Mornings with Mayesh, where Yvonne Ashton is joined by David Dahlson, Amy Balsters, and Joey Azout from Alexandra Farms to delve into the enchanting world of garden roses. Gain valuable insights into the meticulous care and cultivation of these exquisite blooms, discover their favorite varieties, tips for weddings & events, and get a sneak peek at the upcoming releases. Visit our blog for the transcript and video replay: https://blog.mayesh.com/mwm-alexandra-farms-feb2024