Episode 300: Three hundred episodes later—wow! What started as a “let’s try it for a year” experiment has turned into a five-year journey filled with laughter, lessons, and lots of love for the floral community. In this special episode, Vonda and Lori reflect on what they’ve learned along the way: the joy of authentic connection, the quirks of podcasting, and the importance of patience (in business and in life). From hilarious behind-the-scenes moments to heartfelt takeaways about kindness, customers, and each other, this celebration is both a thank you to listeners and an invitation to keep going—together.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 299: In this lighthearted and thoughtful episode, Vonda and Lori kick things off with karaoke night plans, road trip shenanigans, and a few laughs before diving into something we all wrestle with—morning routines. Inspired by an article on 10 simple habits that quietly make you unstoppable, they share personal stories, practical reflections, and how even small changes like making your bed, stepping outside for a few minutes of sunlight, or choosing three priorities can set the tone for your whole day. Whether you’re running a flower shop, a business, or just trying to start your mornings with more intention, this episode will encourage you to reset, refocus, and bring your best self forward.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 298: Lori’s voice is back—and so is the chatter across the floral world. In this episode, Vonda and Lori sit down with industry leader and President of Bill Doran Company, Bill LaFever, to unpack the big announcement combining Bill Doran Company and DWF, Denver Wholesale Florist, and what it really means for retail florists. Bill shares his family’s 80-year story—from his grandfather’s one-station-wagon route to 38 locations  —and why the company’s true engine has always been people and relationships.

We dig into practical takeaways for shops: fresher product through farm-direct procurement, the role of private labels like Doran Direct and Mount Flora, and why “quality, connection, and community” still win. Bill also talks hiring (hire slow, fire fast), leading through change with common sense and compassion, and mindset shifts when news hits your market. Bonus: rapid-fire fun—favorite flowers (hello, lisianthus and roses), live music obsessions, and game-day views.

If you’ve been wondering how this news affects your buying, your rep, and your customers’ experience, this candid conversation will steady your footing—and maybe spark your next move.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 297: In this special solo episode, Vonda LaFever, AIFD, takes us on a heartfelt journey through her 50 years in the floral industry. From her very first Saturday job at a flower shop in Ames, Iowa, to building her own business alongside her husband, to founding Flower Clique, Vonda shares the lessons that shaped her career and her life.

She reflects on mentors who taught her the importance of commitment, quality, and mechanics; the joy of teamwork and community; and the milestones that come from family, friends, and faith. 

Most of all, this episode is a celebration of passion, resilience, and the belief that when you keep learning and share what you know, you not only grow yourself—you elevate everyone around you. 🌸

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 296:  Marketing is so much more than pretty Instagram posts – it’s the way your team answers the phone, the words you choose in an email, and the vibe customers feel when they walk through your door. In this workshop-style episode, Ellie LaFever PFCI, breaks down how to create intentional marketing that feels true to your brand and shows up consistently across every touchpoint.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by what to post, when to post it, or how to make your marketing feel more authentic, this episode will give you clarity and a practical roadmap to move forward with intention.

View the session

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 295: In this episode Vonda and Lori share their takeaways from the SAF Convention—highlighting programs, conversations, and connections that sparked inspiration. From co-presenting alongside industry leader Tim Farrell AIFD, PFCI, AAF, CFD on growing sympathy profits with intention, to navigating questions about grief, empathy, and how to confidently guide families in honoring loved ones, this episode blends heartfelt reflection with practical business strategies. Plus, hear stories from behind the scenes, reminders about the proven emotional power of flowers, and why sharing that message boldly matters more than ever.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 294: What happens when three generations come together for a week-long Flower Clique photo shoot? Lori and Vonda are joined by Ellie and Vonda’s granddaughter Leighton for a heartwarming (and often hilarious) conversation about working side-by-side, social media through different generations’ eyes, and the unexpected skills that keep a creative team running smoothly—DoorDash expertise included. From behind-the-scenes flower arranging to generational personality quirks, this episode is part family reunion, part business insight, and all Flower Clique charm.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 293: In this solo episode, Vonda steps in while Lori waits to see if she is selected for jury duty—and uses the moment to talk about something every florist (and human) deals with: deadlines. From painting before houseguests arrive to preparing a flower shop for fall and holiday events, Vonda shares why deadlines aren’t the enemy—they’re actually a powerful tool for reducing stress, aligning your team, and getting real work done. You’ll hear practical ways to break down big projects, reverse-engineer timelines, and finally check off that task that’s been hanging over your head.

Whether you’re prepping for the holiday season, planning a photoshoot, or just trying to clean the cooler, this episode will inspire you to set your next deadline—with clarity, momentum, and maybe even a little relief.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 292: Lori returns from her unforgettable trip to Scotland and Ireland—packed with castles, cobblestone streets, walking tours, pub chats, and even an ancient gospel manuscript. She and Vonda reflect on the joy of cultural exploration, the value of unplugging, and the unexpected tug of floral FOMO, even when you’re surrounded by highland cows and Guinness.

Back stateside, Vonda shares behind-the-scenes lessons from AIFD Symposium and what it means to lead with intentionality, observation, and personal invitation. Together, they dive into how volunteering, mentoring, and simply asking someone to step up can change everything—at work, in community, and beyond.

Whether you’re a flower pro, a traveler at heart, or someone who believes in learning from every experience—this episode reminds you how powerful it is to stay curious, stay connected, and say yes to new opportunities.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist

Episode 291: What’s the #1 factor influencing your flower shop’s success? Spoiler: it’s not your flowers. In this episode, Lori dives deep into why your team is the most powerful profit driver in your business. From the power of first impressions to the role of education, empowerment, and authentic customer service, she shares real-world tips, data-backed insights, and even a clever BLOOM framework (courtesy of her AI assistant!) to help you build a team that turns one-time buyers into loyal customers. If you’re ready to elevate your shop’s culture—and your bottom line—this episode is for you.

Sponsored by:
Flower Clique
Flower Clique Prep School
Real Life Retail Florist