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Send us Fan Mail The Fresh Bunch is on the road again! Mike is on his annual Canadian Farm-A-Thon and meets up with Mimi, Ty, Jason, and Greenie for a behind-the-scenes visit to Rosa Flora. The team gets a closer look at how Rosa Flora grows Gerberas, Lisianthus, Snapdragons, and more, while getting the inside story from Rosa Flora founder Otto, whose floral journey began back in 1978. We talk farming, branding, growth, progress, and what it really means to support the partners who help keep the flower industry moving. And, of course, Mike leaves us with some life advice; the three things you cant skimp on in life.

Send us Fan Mail Mimi is flying solo—and yes, the reporter blazer is back—for a very important October Events Preview! This week on The Fresh Bunch, Mimi rounds up the industry initiatives, events, and dates you need on your radar. She checks in with the Jet Fresh Marketing Team in Ecuador about two very different events happening in Ecuador, gets the scoop on Green Career Week and Petal It Forward, and welcomes a few guests who phone in with sneak peeks, experiences, and what to expect. It’s a short one, but it’s packed with dates, so open your calendar, grab a pen, and get ready for a very busy October!   Green Career Week - Oct 5-9 https://www.seedyourfuture.org/green-career-week   Jet Fresh Open House Oct 5 https://www.instagram.com/p/DcecQ9qG6W3/?hl=en   ExpoFlor Ecuador Oct 6-8 Expo Flor Ecuador | Ecuador flower show   Bloom Together Int. Oct 6 https://www.instagram.com/p/DdZMdv1lDlG/?hl=en&img_index=1   Petal it Forward - Oct 14 https://safnow.org/petalitforward/

Send us Fan Mail What happens when you combine event floristry, freelancing, social media transparency, and… a floral vending machine? On this episode of The Fresh Bunch, we’re talking with Olena Romanchuk, founder of Oro Gifts in New Jersey, about building a floral business that doesn’t exactly follow the traditional playbook. Olena shares how she started over after coming to the U.S. from Ukraine, learning a new language and building her business from the ground up. We dive into her unique mix of event work, freelancing and her 13-locker floral vending machine located in a high-traffic mall. This machine not only sells flowers but also introduces her business to thousands of potential customers. And she’s not stopping there. Olena has already ordered machine number two for New York City. She’s also created a 30-page “How to Start a Floral Vending Machine” guide, packed with pricing, sourcing, marketing ideas, real-world lessons, and the mistakes she wishes she knew before getting started. We talk entrepreneurship, being transparent on social media, thinking beyond the traditional flower shop, and finding creative ways to get your business in front of customers. Mike even throws a few ideas into the mix that might just make their way into the next version of Olena’s guide. No quarters required. This episode is packed with idea snacks for the entrepreneurial brain.   https://www.instagram.com/orogiftsnj/   Her guide can be found on her Etsy: FLOWER VENDING MACHINE (supplier & Real Cost Guide) - Etsy

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Fresh Bunch, we’re tackling a serious topic that every small business needs to hear: Business Email Compromise & Cyber Fraud. We’re joined by two full-time law enforcement professionals and an IT professional who knows the floral industry to talk about how these scams happen, what hackers are looking for, and—most importantly—how to protect your business. We cover everything from typosquatting and fake emails to backups, two-factor authentication, and hard passkeys. We also talk about something that doesn’t get discussed enough: the shame and embarrassment that can come with being a victim of fraud. And yes, hackers love the holidays. We talk about why they target businesses when teams are busy, distracted, or short-staffed—and why you should be extra careful this Labor Day weekend. The biggest takeaway? Don’t stay quiet. Report fraud, talk to your team, and train everyone to recognize the warning signs. Because when it comes to cyber fraud, staying informed could save your business.   You can reach Joe Aldeguer on the SAF website: safnow.org Jason Fox, Risk Management Consultant, [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Fresh Bunch, we’re talking flowers, clay, creativity, and the journey that led Sullivan Owen from being a florist to creating a line of limited-edition porcelain vases made right here in the USA. After running her floral business for 11 years, COVID gave Sullivan the unexpected opportunity to take a class at The Clay Studio—and one slip-casting class changed everything. Inspired to create vessels designed with flowers in mind, Sullivan shares why she chooses to produce her vases in the U.S. and support the talented people behind the production process. We also talk about her trip to Holland, seeing lilacs growing firsthand, and how that experience gave her a whole new understanding of the pricing and value of flowers. Sullivan shares her design process, her best-selling pieces, and what happened when Wirecutter featured her vases and the orders suddenly came pouring in. Ryan is definitely in his element for this one. Inspired by fabric and Organic Movement, the vessels are designed for any bunch of flowers to fall perfectly in place.  The perfect high-end gift for those who love flowers, or an item for florists to add to their gift items for sale.   Tune in for a conversation about flowers, design, handmade vessels, and what happens when one creative path leads to another.  https://sullivanowen.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sullivan_owen

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Fresh Bunch, we’re joined by Melanie Rauscher and Michelle Sullivan, best friends and the innovative co-founders behind FleurSpace—an innovative platform designed to cultivate a more connected, collaborative floral industry. From Melanie’s journey as an award-winning master florist with deep family roots to Michelle’s inspiring background as a photographer, author, and purpose-driven advocate, the duo shares the spark that brought them together to reshape how the flower community connects. We get real about the highs and lows of tech entrepreneurship and small business ownership. Melanie and Michelle open up about the genuine struggles of building a new website and app from the ground up, navigating the learning curves of a startup, and the unique dynamics, communication rhythms, and fun of building a dream company alongside your best friend. Finally, we dive into how FleurSpace is solving major logistical headaches for freelancers, destination designers, studio owners, and wholesalers alike. Discover how their platform is opening doors for shared creative spaces, global collaboration, and community mentorship—empowering florists everywhere to scale without the stress. Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation about friendship, community-building, and the future of floral networking! Learn more at https://www.fleur-space.com/

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Fresh Bunch, we’re joined by Amy Balsters, The Floral Coach®—award-winning floral designer, educator, and one of the industry’s leading voices in helping florists better understand the why behind great design. Amy takes us through her journey in flowers, from learning the fundamentals of floral design to building a career focused on educating and empowering other designers. We talk about Bouquet Bootcamp®, her online floral education program designed to help florists strengthen their bouquet-making skills, build confidence, and become better, more intentional designers. We also get into a side of floristry that doesn’t get talked about enough: the physical toll of the job. Back pain, sore hands, long hours on your feet, repetitive movements—flowers may be beautiful, but the work behind them can be brutal on the body. We dive into color theory and why understanding color can completely change the way you design, the importance of continuing education at every stage of your career, and Amy’s experiences teaching and connecting with florists around the country. We also talk her workshop and presentation at CalFlowers, the Virginia Fine Arts & Flowers show, and, naturally, the important stuff—In-N-Out Burger. It’s a fun, insightful conversation about creativity, longevity, education, and what it really takes to build a sustainable life in flowers. Learn more at https://thefloralcoach.com/

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Fresh Bunch, we sit down with the effortlessly charming Canaan Marshall—the floral designer bringing vibrant energy, warmth, and floral flair to the flower world. From growing up with a natural knack for all things green to transforming everyday spaces into elegant masterpieces across Macon and Atlanta, Canaan shares how he turned a lifelong passion into a standout career featured in Southern Living and Flower Magazine. We dive deep into his journey on the national stage, reflecting on his time competing in Season 2 of HBO Max’s Full Bloom and designing for high-profile events like the prestigious NYBG Orchid Dinner. Canaan breaks down how fashion, fine art, and architecture fuel his creative process, and how he channels those inspirations into high-impact event designs, breathtaking bridal bouquets, and over-the-top mantels. Plus, Canaan brings his signature "Place it, and move on" philosophy directly to our listeners. He shares practical encouragement for aspiring designers, revealing why floral arranging should be fun, intuitive, and filled with love rather than stress. Tune in for a fun, lively conversation packed with creative inspiration, behind-the-scenes stories, and the infectious energy that makes every day feel like a celebration! Learn more at https://www.canaanmarshall.com/

Send us Fan Mail What does it take to create one of the floral industry's most anticipated events? This week on The Fresh Bunch, we sit down with Monnaie Pepin, Lisa Fillice, and Cagney Miller from CalFlowers to pull back the curtain on Fun 'N Sun.  From the history of CalFlowers and the value of membership to the challenge of building an event that keeps people coming back, the trio shares what goes into blending education, networking, entertainment, and business into one unforgettable experience.  We also swap event-planning stories, reminisce about favorite Fun 'N Sun moments, share who deserves credit for the legendary In-N-Out Burger truck, and get a sneak peek at what attendees can expect this year.  Whether you're a longtime Fun 'N Sun fan or thinking about attending for the first time, this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes stories, laughs, and plenty of reasons to add this event to your calendar. Learn more at: https://www.cafgs.org/fns2026 Contact Monnaie for questions on the event:  [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Fresh Bunch Podcast, we sit down with the owner and Creative Director of Blossom & Bee Floral & Event Designs in New Jersey. Pennylyn Woosley shares how she opened her own floral business at just 25 years old, built her reputation in the competitive wedding industry, and carved out her own path despite growing up in a family of entrepreneurs. We also dive into the changing wedding market, the opportunities a new Netflix studio could bring to her area, the frustrations of lengthy proposal processes and clients shopping around, and why visiting New York City's iconic 28th Street Flower Market never gets old. Plus, Penny gives us a preview of her upcoming solo show—and why she's hoping to convince Mike to be her first guest. If you're a florist, wedding professional, or simply love hearing the real stories behind successful floral businesses, this episode is packed with experience, laughs, and plenty of industry insight. Learn more at https://www.blossomandbeefloral.com/

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Fresh Bunch Podcast, Mike, Joel, and Mimi welcome Amanda Jedlinsky, Senior Director of Content and Communications at the Society of American Florists (SAF), for an episode that's equal parts sunshine and storm clouds. We kick things off with the fun stuff—summer gardens, what's thriving in Amanda's growing zone, and some of her favorite flowers to grow. Then we look ahead to SAF's Annual Convention in Amelia Island. With hundreds of floral professionals already registered, the Outstanding Varieties Competition, Educational Experience Zones (come say hi to Mike & Mimi!), and countless opportunities to learn and connect, it's shaping up to be an incredible event. But enough fluff... Let's talk about the ugly side of doing business online. Amanda shares the story behind SAF's investigation into deceptive order gatherers and the powerful article she and the SAF team created after speaking with florists who have been affected. We also hear from Sam Bowles of Allen's Flowers, who weighs in on the growing trend of website accessibility and cookie-related lawsuits impacting businesses across the country. From Google and AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) to protecting your brand, your website, and your online reputation, this episode is packed with practical advice, industry insights, and plenty of laughs along the way. If we're going to keep growing this industry together, we have to be willing to talk about the beautiful... and the not-so-beautiful. Resources Read SAF's article on Deceptive Order Gatherers in the July/ August Floral Management www.safnow.org Learn more about Deceptive Order Gathering & even report them here: https://safnow.org/deceptive-order-gatherering/

Send us Fan Mail In this special LIVE episode of the Fresh Bunch, we're taking you to Orlando, FL at the Signia Hotel for AIFD 2026. We were invited back for a second year to record a special podcast live, on-site during the American Institute of Floral Designers annual convention.  Listen in as Ryan is joined by 3 special guests and a live studio audience as they discuss all things AIFD, whats new for this year's ELEVATE theme, and what to expect for St. Louis in 2027.  Special guests include Renee Tucci AIFD, PFCI, AAF, AIFD's current President, Brent Leech AIFD, CFD and AIFD's incoming President, and AIFD volunteer and designer, Dennis Kelly of Fiddleleaf Florals in PA. Learn more at https://aifd.org/

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to our Fourth of July Roadtrip Special! Mimi catches up with Mike and Mommy from the road as they talk about everything from the current state of the floral industry and summer heat domes to the surprisingly important topic of America's best rest-stop Buccee’s—and even the history of FedEx. Meanwhile, Ryan is at AIFD setting up the Partners Table, Jimi is testing out his latest jokes on Mommy, and Mike is filling in for proud new dad Casey Black. Congratulations to Casey, Michelle, Eliza, Jet, and Nika on the arrival of Walker Austin Black, the newest member of the Jet Fresh family. Buckle up for a fun, and unpredictable episode of The Fresh Bunch! Happy 4th of July & 250th Bday USA.

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Fresh Bunch, we're joined by our cousin from Canada, Karl of Greenpark Nursery. A grower by heart and a businessman by necessity, Karl shares the values that have shaped his family business: attention to detail, an unwavering commitment to quality, and the philosophy that if you wouldn't want to see it in a wedding bouquet, it shouldn't leave the farm. Known for its premium-cut ornamental branches and foliage, Greenpark Nursery has always focused on doing things the right way rather than the easy way. Karl gives us a look into his family's long-time dream—a new farm project set to begin production in 2029/2030—and discusses the challenges and rewards of building a business organically. Karl flips the questions to Mike and his decision to invest in a farm in Ecuador and the lessons learned along the way. The episode is filled with reflections on gratitude, family, and staying rooted in what matters most.

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Fresh Bunch, longtime BFF of the show, Ogbanna "The Hip Hop Florist" Coates, joins us for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, culture, flowers, and community. Ogbanna shares his journey from working in mass-market during COVID to recognizing the power and necessity of flowers in people's lives. Fueled by creativity, music, and a vision of Hippy Psychedelic Roses, he has built a unique path in the floral industry. We also celebrate an exciting new chapter as he opens his creative shared workspace, today on Juneteenth. We discuss the influence of music on his entrepreneurial journey, creating opportunities for others, and why flowers truly are for everybody. Ogbanna also shares his Father's Day flower pick fit for a king—the mighty King Protea. Plus, in a fun twist, Ogbanna turns the microphone around and interviews us for a change! Joining the conversation is our very own Rose Expert, Celine, while Mimi even breaks into song along the way. As we celebrate Juneteenth, we reflect on its history and the power it holds to bring people together through understanding, culture, and community. And of course, it wouldn't be a Fresh Bunch episode without a little food talk. Don't miss this heartfelt, uplifting, and entertaining conversation with our dear friend, Ogbanna Coates.