Advertise on podcast: How We Bloom

Send us a text Learn 10 Creative Ways to Use Design Master Paint with pro-level floral spray techniques offered by Gretchen Sell of Design Master. Discover how to conceal blemishes, customize colors, up-cycle old products, and create show-stopping designs. You can transform ordinary flowers into extraordinary art with these creative color spray tips. 👉 Listen now on the How We Bloom podcast or read the full article on Floral Hub. How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Flowers can do more than decorate a room. They comfort families, honor memories, and can sustain a business. For Jeanna Furst AIFD, growing the sympathy side of her family’s 120-year-old floral business introduced a thriving revenue stream, now representing nearly 27% of sales. In this episode, she shares the strategies, tools, and team practices that helped her turn compassion into consistent business growth — and how you can do the same. How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text In this episode of How We Bloom podcast and Floral Hub blog, we explore the art and architecture of floral design by expanding your toolkit of floral design techniques. Design is the “wow” that stirs emotion - technique is the “how” that gives it form. Discover how to use floral mechanics to shape your signature style. Whether you're designing a delicate wedding bouquet or a dramatic centerpiece, these flower arranging tips will elevate your creativity - and that’s How We Bloom. How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Join floral expert Sharon McGukin and flower friends who share memories of a breathtaking tulip tour through The Netherlands. From vibrant flower fields to historic flower auctions, wooden shoes, cheese-making, and world-class gardens like the iconic Keukenhof. This podcast shares a rich blend of Dutch culture, floral history, and personal behind-the-scenes moments from a petal-filled tour that’s sure to inspire your next floral adventure. How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Every florist knows the struggle, designing the perfect arrangement, then stressing over how it’s delivered. Frustrated by last-minute disasters that can turn a beautiful creation into a logistical nightmare. Say goodbye to delivery stress! Christine Foley, of Caddy Up Solutions, designed The Flower Caddy to transport floral arrangements safely, efficiently, and stress-free. Learn how she turned a common floral frustration into an eco-friendly, Made-in-USA solution that saves time and money. A solution created by a florist, for florists – assisted by the National Inventors Club. Chris offers ideas for identifying problems and creating solutions in your floral business. She also includes helpful money saving tips for wedding prep. Read the blog or listen to the podcast to learn more.   How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Vincent van Gogh once said, “A floral designer is a master of transformation, turning humble flowers into extraordinary works of art.” Join us for this podcast episode, as we explore Floral Design Techniques - the art of creatively organizing floral material placements to transform simple arrangements into stunning masterpieces." How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Australian floral designer Julia Rose had a bold dream—to showcase her outrageous creativity with live botanicals on the New York Fashion Week runway. That dream became reality. Draping stunning models in breathtaking couture crafted from fresh flowers, Julia brought her vision to life. As her floral masterpieces graced Runway 7 and lit up Times Square, the audience responded with awe and applause. Now, hear Julia Rose share the story behind her groundbreaking collection and the journey that made it all possible. Tune in to discover how she turned her passion into a moment of fashion history! How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Discover the rewarding career paths in floriculture available to FFA members! From floral design and horticulture to event planning and marketing, the floral industry offers diverse opportunities to FFA members. This blog shares insights from Randy Wooten and Sharon McGukin about mentoring FFA students, building essential life skills, and participating in the many programs like the Georgia Floral Design Clinic discussed here. Whether you're a florist or simply passionate about floriculture, learn how you can make an impact by guiding the next generation in their floral careers.  How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Revolutionize Your Floral Business with AI & ChatGPT! You don’t have to be tech-savvy to explore AI solutions for your floral business. Join Sharon McGukin and Brandy Ferrer as they discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the floral industry.  Discover how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can empower florists by streamlining tasks, tracking trends, enhancing marketing strategies, creating social media campaigns, and aiding in employee training without replacing the artistry that defines your floral designs. Sharon and Brandy guide you through practical ways to integrate AI into your flower shop. Giving you more time for your creative flower passion and for staying ahead in the competitive floral market. How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Learn the Principles & Elements of Design  with Sharon McGukin AIFD, AAF, PFCI Pablo Picasso said it best, “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.”  While it may seem simple enough to drop flowers in a vase and call it an arrangement, even more pleasure can be derived once you’ve learned the  fundamentals of design.  These guidelines, the  Principles and Elements of Design, are the technically correct manner of placing materials in a design. Learning the proper principles, elements, mechanics and techniques to achieve floral design mastery will help you expand your skills and truly enjoy the artform. This podcast is a great place to start learning the basics. How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text "Solve problems to create new business," suggests Lenny Walker, VP of sales and operations at Kennicott Brothers Company. Like many business models, the floral industry is changing. Sharon McGukin and Lenny discuss viable ways to enhance your floral business by “Partnering with your Wholesaler.” Consider their suggestions for communicating with one another, focusing on growing the business and industry together, and reminding consumers of the value of flowers – in order to inspire success. “One flower bunch or stem at a time.” How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text A Texas Cowboy in Philly? You couldn’t miss this Oasis Ambassador. On the last day of the 2024 Philadelphia Flower Show, a Texas Cowboy wandered along the flower-fragrant aisles without his horse. Dressed in his Texas cowboy hat, boots, and shirt - with a Texas flag and lone star on it, stood Abel Gonzalez Mencio, AIFD, PFCI, TMF of Casa Granada Floral in La Feria, Texas. He wore a banner that read ‘Texas Designer of the Year’ with his name on the back.  Abel won an Oasis Ambassador contest that sponsored his travel to Philly where he volunteered on the international Schaffer Design team.  “It was amazing!” responds Abel when asked about his first visit to the famous Flower Show. “There’s no other word for it.” When people asked to take photos with him, “I told them a little bit about Texas, Oasis, my Ambassadorship and getting to work with talented designers from around the world.”  Abel shares more of his “amazing” adventures in this podcast.  How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text “Your foundation is the most critical part of anything you build,” says Canadian florist, Lea Romanowski CAFA, AIFD, CAFD. “If your foundation isn't good, if it isn't strong and true, it will affect the entire outcome of the design.” Lea has learned, through the years, the importance of excellent floral mechanics.     Lea - owner of Designing on the Edge, has made an art of pushing the boundaries of design. Lea built the business using her carpentry, painting, metal work and electrical skills earning her the nickname "MacGyver, a fixer of all things visual."    She offers tips and techniques for precision floral mechanics in everyday use, or evaluations and competitions, including AIFD’s PFDE. Lea represented Canada at the 2023 Interflora World Cup in Manchester, England and shares highlights of her global experience. How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text Need a floral education program where creativity meets business? Consider EMC- European Master Certification, a floral program developed to nurture the creative and business growth of designers worldwide. Design visionary Tomas De Bruyne of Belgium, and business strategist Christi Lopez of Virginia, discuss with Sharon McGukin  upcoming EMC trend-setting opportunities. This blended learning concept - online courses, self study, and on-site events helps  participants expand their floral design potential.   Learn also about ICE – the Infinite Creative Effect. And, details of the  upcoming floral event - DUOlogue in Miami.   Listen to this podcast for details! How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!

Send us a text "Don't be afraid to step out and educate yourself," says Michael Smith AIFD, AAF, PFCI, FDI, FSMD." Education is the key to success."  Michael  is a retail florist  in Mariana, Florida and winner of the 54th annual Sylvia Cup design competition. He offers sage  advice  to people who would like to have the opportunity  to win a Sylvia Cup or other floral competition. Participation in competitions or evaluations is one of the very best 'classes' you can ever attend, because you can learn so much when it's just you, the time clock, and the design table. Listen as Michael shares helpful tips for meeting that challenge with success. Learn to trust your talent! How we Bloom podcast is an oasis of flower ideas. Host Sharon McGukin of Smithers-Oasis North America interviews floral guests who dare to do things differently. We listen, learn, explore new opportunities and that's how we bloom!