The Business & Pleasure of Flowers

Episode 305:  In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Lori opens up about one of those weeks — when everything seems to happen at once. From car troubles and family emergencies to the emotional rollercoaster of feeling stretched too thin, they unpack the real-life chaos that comes with balancing work, family, and self.

Together, they explore what it means to give yourself grace, delegate when needed, and let go of guilt, especially for business owners and florists who feel they must always “power through.” Vonda and Lori  share wisdom about finding support systems, communicating transparently with customers, and remembering that storms always pass, often leaving our gardens stronger and more beautiful than before.

✨ Whether you’re a florist, small business owner, or just someone trying to stay afloat during a downpour, this episode reminds you that you’re not alone and that after the rain, the blooms return brighter than ever.

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

Episode 304: This week, Lori and Vonda catch up on life, caregiving, and the whirlwind of a recent Italy wedding trip before diving into the timeless wisdom of Mr. Rogers. Together, they reflect on his lessons of empathy, dignity, and human connection, exploring how to slow down, listen deeply, and rediscover the beauty of wonder in today’s noisy world. This episode is a gentle reminder to pause, reflect, and find joy in the simple, meaningful moments that truly elevate life.

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

Episode 303:  Society of American Florist (SAF) CEO Kate Penn joins Lori and Vonda to unpack what’s really happening in floral retail—rising consumer spend, experience-driven shopping, value-aligned buying, and how smart shops are winning with culture, training, and tighter ops. We hit staffing + succession, smaller holidays, practical website/SEO moves, SAF’s advocacy updates, and a sneak peek at SAF’s new AI “coach.” Actionable, optimistic, and real.

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

Episode 302: One of the questions we hear most often when we're out at shows, conventions, and symposiums is: “So…what is Flower Clique?” In this episode, Vonda and Lori sit down with Ellie LaFever and Kami Martin to answer that question once and for all.

From the why behind Flower Clique’s creation, to the specific ways we help florists simplify inventory, increase profitability, and strengthen their digital presence, this conversation dives into what makes Flower Clique more than just a service—it’s a support system. You’ll also hear about the importance of quality product photography, how your website works like a menu, the role of education through our Prep Schools and online courses, and why consistency in branding and social media matters more than ever.

If you’ve ever wondered what Flower Clique is (or how we might lighten the load for your shop), this episode is your answer.

Flower Clique Discovery Call

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

Episode 301: What’s it really like to work in a family-owned business? In this episode, Lori chats with Mimi Pacheco, Marketing and Communications at Jet Fresh Flowers, about the unique joys and challenges of being part of companies built on family legacies.

From the trust, flexibility, and sense of belonging that come with working in a close-knit environment, to the blurred boundaries, communication hurdles, and work-life balance struggles—it’s all on the table. Lori and Mimi share their personal experiences, lessons learned, and advice for anyone navigating the rewarding (and sometimes complicated) world of family businesses.

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

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