Vendor Highlight: Fab Flora

Stop and smell (or see) the roses! This week’s vendor highlight features one of our fellow Chicago Green Wedding Alliance members: Fab Flora. Their unique style can be described as bohemian mixed with vintage chic. Learn more about this fabulous florist by reading the Q&A with Naturally Yours Events and Jori Foreman of Fab Flora below. Feast your eyes on these beautiful arrangements!

Photo by Z+V Photography.

NYE: Tell me about your business. What do you specialize in?

Fab: We specialize in unconventional, artistic and earthy weddings. Our typical client is a city-dweller who wants something unique to represents their quirky, fun, creative personality. We also cater to the eco-conscious couple.

Photo by Shane Welch Photography.

NYE: How did you get started- what inspired you?

Fab: I have always been involved in something creative. I studied fine arts in college and wanted to be able to use my artistic talent in a way that makes other people happy. A long time ago, back in high school, I took a career test and it actually told me I’d be a good florist! So I decided to try it and turns out, I love it!

Photo by Rotarski Photography.

NYE: What’s your favorite thing about working in the wedding industry?

Fab: It’s hard to say just one so here’s a few: the really cool couples I get to meet, the feeling after dropping off the bridal bouquet and seeing the bride all teary-eyed, working from home in my sweatpants, and all the other amazing wedding vendors I’ve met who I now can call friends.

Photo by Z+V Photography.

NYE: How far in advance should clients book your services?

Fab: It’s best to book us about 6 to 12 months prior to your wedding. First get a planner, then a venue, and then call me!

Photo by Will Nunnally Photography.

NYE: Where does your inspiration come from?

Fab: Pinterest, duh! No, honestly I follow some blogs and some really cool floral designers across the world. I especially fancy the work of a flower and farm in New York called Saipua. I also gain inspiration from my walks with my dog Lenny and our camping trips every summer.

Photo by Greenhouse Loft Photography.

NYE: Do you have any green initiatives you’d like to share?

Fab:

We use local flowers during the Midwest growing season to support local farms and reduce shipping energy
We own a fuel efficient delivery vehicle
We use Earth-friendly cleaning supplies to tidy our studio and flower buckets
We compost all of our scraps!
We sign all contracts electronically, zero waste
When local is not an option due to the season, we prefer to use Veriflora, Rainforest Alliance, Organic and Fair Trade certified flowers
We love renting out our own collection of vases or using vintage rental companies

Photo by Rojo Foto Design.

NYE: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

Fab: I enjoy painting, looking at art, hanging out with my dog Lenny and my boyfriend Joe, reading funny books, hiking, camping, meditating, and spending time with my family and friends.

Photo by Diane Huhn Photography.