Flowers are such a personal aspect to a wedding, they really bring that finishing touch to the grand design theme. The colors, texture, style and type of flowers create a unique look & feeling that creates everlasting memories of your big day. I recently had the pleasure of working with Portland florist Jenny Michels from Green in Bloom and was thrilled at the chance to sit down with her and learn more about her business!
Photo Credit: Hailey King Photography
1. Tell us about you and your business, how did you get started in the wedding industry?
I sort of fell into this industry. I started working at a floral shop cleaning flowers, my love grew from there. I became the manager of a shop and the sole designer. One day the owner decided to close the store without much warning, I was in shock and panic! I had planned on doing some friend’s weddings as a gift to them on my own that summer. So I hastily decided business name: Green in Bloom. With much encouragement from friends, I decided to pursue a full time floral business. It was the scariest thing I’ve ever done! That was ten years ago. This past year, I made another change to my business. I followed my heart and pursued a full time job in social work for child welfare. There was no way I could close all floral in my life so I kept the BEST part: WEDDINGS! Now my business consists of one wedding per weekend. I love getting to know my client and creating something that fits them perfectly. I’ve always loved weddings and love what I do now. The balance of both social work and floral design make me unbelievably happy.
2. What are some of the best compliments you’ve ever received from a client?
I love it when my clients tell me it’s exactly what they wanted. The ultimate compliment is happy tears when they see their bouquet, then I start crying! It’s the best.
Photo Credit: Maria Lamb
3. What advice do you have for brides as they are selecting florals for their wedding day?
Don’t be afraid to be direct and tell your florist what you want and what you don’t want. If you are unsure of what you want, say that, and don’t feel bad about it! There are so many options out there, your florist’s job is to be able to help you navigate through to the final product. You should also meet with more than one florist before deciding to hire them and choose who you feel most comfortable with and confident in.
4. What is your favorite wedding venue in the area?
That is an incredibly hard question! There are so many good venues. I love Maysara winery in McMinnville. Besides it being beautiful, the family that owns it are fun to work with. Also, their wine is amazing. I also love Bridal Veil Lakes because you feel like you are in another world while you’re there.
Photo Credit: Burgundy Blue
5. What are things you as a florist will provide and what are things that you don’t usually source in terms of decor?
At Green in Bloom, I focus on the flowers. I provide vases at cost that the client can keep, or guests can take home the whole arrangement. This usually saves on costs. I can provide rental suggestions if the decor is more elaborate.
6. What makes Green in Bloom unique?
I try very hard to respect my client’s budget and personal style. It’s important to really listen to what the client wants and not impose my personal preferences onto the design. The end result is a celebration of your relationship and the flowers should reflect that. Something that is very important to many Portland brides is being GREEN & eco-friendly. At Green in Bloom we recycle all eligible materials including stems and utilize local growers as much as possible.
Photo Credit: Hailey King Photography
Green in Bloom creates exquisite and uniquely personal wedding florals for a range of budgets. I loved interviewing Jenny, she pours so much of her heart and sincerity into each design she produces. She has such a passion for flowers and creates designs that are so gorgeous & timeless! Check out the Green in Bloom website and Instagram if you are looking to book a Portland florist for your wedding!
