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October 12th 2022

Meet the 2023 Floret Scholarship Winners

Written by
Floret

This past week our team has been carefully reading all of the essays submitted as part of our Floret Scholarship application process. It was such an honor to hear from so many wonderful people who are ready to follow their dreams and fill their lives, and the lives of others, with flowers. We received applications from 81 different countries around the world!

Initially, we had planned on offering 20 full scholarships, however, after some very generous donors came forward, we were able to increase the number of scholarships to 23—our most ever! 

A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to apply. I am so grateful that you shared your hopes and dreams with the team and me. 

Large-scale flower arrangement on the back of the Floret truckThis year as we were reviewing applications two prominent themes emerged. 

First, the number of people who started their gardening journey during the pandemic is awe-inspiring. So many new gardeners found the act of growing flowers and getting their hands in the dirt gave them comfort, peace, and a sense of hopefulness during such a challenging time.

Second, many of the essays expressed a deep desire to not only grow and share flowers but also to share their newfound gardening knowledge with others, especially with children and young adults. 

Peach-colored specialty pumpkinsHere are a few of my very favorite quotes that really sum up the essence of this year’s scholarship applications:  

“I believe flowers are the most valued gift a person can give. They are what we go to to say I love you, to say I am sorry, to say sorry for your loss, and I am thinking of you. Flowers are feelings in a wrap. They say the things we often cannot. And for me and mine, the peace I get from placing bulbs and seeds in the ground and feeling the dirt, and then being able to gift that peace to the community, so they can say the things they may be struggling with, is a fate I am attempting to capture. I grow for healing. For myself and for others.” 

“I wanted to grow enough flowers to create abundance. And then share that abundance with people who are going through a tough time. Flowers can be such a beautiful gift. I feel deeply that if you have the ability and opportunity to create such abundance then you should share it with those who don’t have the chance or the means to have such beauty in their life. Gratitude and helping others is such a rewarding circle.”  

“Giving back to the community and especially children through knowledge, mentorship, and experience is where I personally want to take my flower journey. The ability to teach others no matter what their situation and background maybe is the greatest aspiration.”

“Gardening for me has been therapy, grounding me when the world around me was too much.” 

Field of dahlias at FloretReading the winners’ excited and grateful responses has been the highlight of our week and I am so excited to introduce you to them. 

Please join me in congratulating the 2023 recipients by leaving a comment at the bottom of this post.

Collage photo of three 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Reid Andrew, No Flowers Here, Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States

At 14 years old, Reid watched Growing Floret and “for the first time in years … felt a joy that was missing in life.” They asked their parents if they could dig up their backyard and turn it into a flower garden and to their surprise, they said yes! They worked hard to save up the money they needed for supplies and now have 400 sq ft filled with flowers. Reid wants to be able to produce enough flowers to give to the people they love, and also “people who just need something beautiful in their day.”

Sallyann Burtenshaw, Little Paddocks Tea House and Small Stores, Mongo, NSW, Australia

Sallyann and her son dreamed of opening a tea house and garden, Little Paddocks Tea House and Small Stories, but he passed away from cancer before they were able to make their dream a reality. Sallyann has continued on with Little Paddocks, but bushfires and floods have set back her progress. She and her son were “big believers in paying it forward” and she plans to expand the garden at Little Paddocks so that she can support youth in her local Indigenous community.

Stephanie Davie, Hope Blooms, Delta, British Columbia, Canada

Stephanie and her family have a small dairy farm in British Columbia. Her son was born with serious health issues and over time she lost herself as she devoted herself to caring for him. One day she brought a bouquet to her son’s hospice nurses and a passion for flowers was ignited. She’s since gone on to grow and sell flowers to raise money for others suffering from loss, including $31,000 for her son’s hospice center.

Collage photo of three 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Rebecca Drennen, Norwalk, Ohio, United States

In 2021, Rebecca planted her first cutting garden and shortly thereafter tragically lost her 10-year-old son, Micaiah, in a fire that destroyed her home. After having lost so much, Rebecca was given a gift of blooms that summer—her “dahlias, zinnias, sweet peas, snapdragons, and cosmos were growing with ferocity.” She “would like to create a small farm where families could come to cut their own blooms. Invite them to also enjoy the buzzing of the bees and the earth beneath their feet, just like Micaiah did.”

Rae Ehrlund, Star Seed Garden, Troutville, Virginia, United States

Rae is a Cherokee Nation tribal member and mother of three who was injured in a car accident just after deciding to begin flower farming. She “pushed through the pain, dizziness, and multiple physical therapy appointments each week and achieved more than I could have dreamed.” She has been involved in the local organic food and flower movement and has been “asked by the local library to host classes … on growing cut flowers and arranging, which are free to the community.”

Jordan Goldsmith, Moonrose Farm, Rehoboth, Massachusetts, United States

Moonrose Farm is a diversified farm offering vegetables for a CSA, a farm stand, and a flower program. Jordan has been able to grow the flower program to account for over 50% of their income. Community is extremely important to Jordan and the work-share program at Moonrose is “a hands-on learning experience where we share our farming knowledge while providing a safe, affirming community for all, especially LGBTQ+ and BIPOC. As a queer lesbian myself, I had a hard time finding mentors that would not treat me differently based on my gender & queerness when I wanted to learn about things like building and tractors, so providing this space for others is important to me.

Collage photo of three 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Vanessa Hall, Feather and Tendril Farmstead, Lakefield, Ontario, Canada

Ness just finished her fifth season growing using no-till methods on her 3,000-sq-ft plot. She has a genetic condition called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and has to manage her farm tasks around pain flares and other symptoms. She wants to “create a thriving business for myself that can support my family, and allow for my bodily autonomy” and believes that the Floret Online Workshop “will really assist me in honing in on the specific skills and key activities that are needed to grow a consistent volume of flowers, and market them appropriately to move them from field to tables.”

Mara Healy, Burfoot Flowers, Olympia, Washington, United States

Mara began growing flowers after losing her mom, who always had a garden bursting with color. “In the untethered space of loss, growing flowers connected me—to her, to the earth, and to my purpose.” She is driven by “principles of stewardship, equal access to natural beauty, and community,” which have helped shape her business Burfoot Flowers. She “started building an amazing CSA membership of flower friends who share my beliefs” and plans to “continue to share with my community, both through CSA and pay-what-you-can opportunities for anyone with a financial barrier to accessing the powerful connection to the natural beauty that fresh flowers provide.” 

Aadila Kadwa, Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Aadila grows flowers in her garden while also working part-time in her family business and raising her three sons. She has been selling edible flowers for the past 2 years, which earns her “a tiny income … [of] buckets in happiness.” She is serious about expanding into cut flowers and has begun experimenting with different varieties to see how they grow in her climate. By participating in the Floret Online Workshop, she is hoping to “learn how to run a small-scale farm efficiently and sustainably, which can then further enable me to branch out into a large-scale farm.”

Collage photo of three 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Crispin Korschen, The Joyful Flowery, Paihia, the Bay of Islands, Northland, New Zealand

Crispin has gardened her entire life and dreamt of establishing a large cutting garden, but wasn’t able to afford the land. Last year, however, a dear friend gifted her a plot to use however she wished. Crispin has faced some health challenges and has found that “[b]eing on the land, growing, and focusing on daily changes is such a beautiful way to maintain” the joy of her everyday life. “It is such a fulfilling way to live, and when you are faced with the choice, as we all are, of how you want to live your life, I have found that this is what I want to do. To cultivate abundance that I can gift to others.”

Karina Królak, Good Farm, Wilków nad Wisłą, Masovian District, Poland

Karina has a small urban garden in Warsaw where she shares crops with friends in need. She calls it “the secret task of my garden. They can’t know that I grow food specially for them.” Growing flowers has helped her “during the pandemic and since the outbreak of war in Ukraine (our neighboring country) [when] fear here was indescribable.” Karina dreams of having a little flower farm where she can “host classes with children and people who want a break from the city.”

Connie Johnson, Freedom Acres SD, Brandt, South Dakota, United States

Connie is a military combat veteran who served in Iraq and began growing flowers as a form of therapy for herself. She considers growing flowers a blessing “because I love it so much and I want to share the gift of flowers with others.” “This online workshop will be invaluable to me because it will give me guidance on how to achieve my dreams of healing others thru flowers.” She wants to “be the best flower farmer I can be, not just for me but for those that are having difficulty finding the words in times of distress.”

Collage photo of three 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Maria Laughlin, Special Growers, Maryville, Tennessee, United States

Special Growers is a nonprofit herb and flower farm whose staff is primarily made up of disabled young adults. “A safe and inclusive work environment is provided where our staff can learn job skills and gain confidence for future careers.” Special Growers also offers a school work-study program for local special education students that offers them employment after graduation. Maria plans to use the Floret Online Workshop to further her legacy at Special Growers. “As one of two individuals in our organization with the intellectual knowledge of flower growing, I feel a great responsibility to carry on this legacy long after I retire.”  

KayTrenia Lee, Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States

KayTrenia is a single mother of two and has been teaching for the past 29 years. She loves “learning and telling others about flowers, and teaching children at my school how to grow flowers in our gardening club.” In 2020, a tornado destroyed her school and the gardens that she and her students had established. They “are currently rebuilding our entire school … One of the main features of the new school will be a rooftop garden and raised beds to be used for learning purposes as well as campus beautification” and KayTrenia gets “to be a part of the whole process!” 

Kara Macy, Bountifully, Mission, Kansas, United States

Kara is the grower-potter behind Bountifully, LLC. As she shares, “According to Harvesters, a local food pantry, one in 10 people in my community don’t know where their next meal will come from, which leaves families struggling to put food on the table, let alone flowers in pretty vases. This reality is heartbreaking and I’ve longed to do more. Since day one, Bountifully has proudly given back 10% of proceeds to local food banks and community garden programs.” Kara hopes that the Floret Online Workshop will allow her to continue to reinvest in her community by “providing employment opportunities, empowering hurting families, creating joy through beauty, and inspiring others to use their gifts bountifully.” 

Collage photo of three 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Caroline Michniak, Jaro Farm, Detroit, Michigan, United States

Caroline and her partner Jared, who uses a wheelchair, run an urban flower farm from their home in Detroit, Michigan. They are “dedicated to creating accessible growing spaces where accessibility includes people with disabilities and different levels of mobility. Our space uses hacks like elevated seedling tables, raised beds, and even an electric assist wheelbarrow so that my partner can be as involved in the growing process as possible.” They “used the Floret books as our flower-growing bibles and [are] so ecstatic to be a part of the” Floret Online Workshop.

Sergii Molchanov, Florest Farm, Bohdanivka, Kyiv Region, Ukraine

Sergii and his partner began growing flowers 4 years ago. In their most recent season, they started planting their ranunculus on February 24, the same day that Russia attacked Ukraine. At first, he wondered what he was doing planting flowers in the midst of an invasion, but he soon began receiving messages on social media thanking him for his work and letting him know that his flowers helped people feel that life would still go on. For Sergii, “it was a huge impulse to … not give up. And we did not.” He believes that the Floret Online Workshop “will change my life forever and help to make my farm more blooming for every season.”

Amy Morrison, The Farmer’s Daughter, Mount Vernon, Washington, United States

Amy teaches horticulture and floral design in Mount Vernon, Washington, and has her own business, The Farmer’s Daughter. She has run a successful bouquet subscription program and had her first seed and tuber sale this year. The “small successes from trying things” in her own garden have “spilled into my classroom and invigorated my students.” Amy shares, “our younger generation is excited and eager to learn about plants and how to make a living working in this industry. I’ve already learned so much from Floret through the books, blogs, and online resources, but this workshop [will] make me a better teacher by expanding my knowledge so much deeper.” 

Collage photo of three 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Anatasia Murdoch, Cudgen Flower Farm, Duranbah, NSW, Australia

Anatasia is an active member of the Queensland Dahlia Society and is locally known as the “dahlia lady.” She often hosts local events for new flower farmers. She is “willing to teach and spread the knowledge within [her] local community” and feels “that the Floret course will give me extra invaluable information to be able to better help not only myself but other local start-up businesses.” Dahlias are currently her main crop and she hopes to be able to add “other revenues of income and learn to start my own seeds and master cuttings to be able to expand without any more major investments into the farm.”

Svetlana Rodina, California, United States

Svetlana spent every summer farming with her grandmother in Russia. She dreamt of having a small plant workshop but was forced to leave Russia. The transition has been challenging—“This difficult road lacks beauty and wonder.” She plans to sell flowers to help provide for her family and will also donate bouquets to “refugees, like us. I will pay special attention to mothers because I know how hard and difficult it is.”

Ethan Roe, Legacy Farms, Leesburg, Virginia, United States

Ethan works at Legacy Farms, a nonprofit organization that provides on-the-job mentorship and coaching for neurodiverse individuals after high school and beyond. They grow flowers that they currently sell through a CSA program. They hope to be able to expand “to become self-sustaining and to have the ability to offer full-time positions, more paid apprenticeships, and educational training. We plan to acquire more land to grow more volume, thereby allowing us to sell more shares, wholesale flowers, and individual bouquets.” Ethan believes that the Floret Online Workshop will be a huge help to him in addressing the new challenges that Legacy Farms faces as they expand.

Collage photo of two 2023 Floret Scholarship winners

Dejh Salyers, Tumwater, Washington, United States

Dejh shares, “[m]y story is the story of so many children … Poverty, abuse, and internalized inferiority led me to seek out ‘safety’ in a life and career where I was completely disconnected from myself. And then, flowers called to me.” Working in her garden has helped her to find a path back to herself and her “mission is to help urban folks reconnect with the land—and in doing so with themselves—by mimicking nature’s abundant generosity.” She has a small flower stand where she shares free flowers with her neighbors that has “become a powerful reconnection to the interdependence that is critical to our mental health.”

Yulia Zavalniuk, Villa Verde Farm, Kyiv, Ukraine

In February, Yulia left her home in Ukraine to attend a flower and garden exhibition in Italy only to wake up one morning and learn that her home had been attacked by Russia. She was determined to get back to her farm to take care of the seeds she’d just planted, but her greenhouses were cut off from electricity and water and the seedlings died. When she returned home in April she found a “burned down building with equipment and tools and flower beds full of weeds.” Instead of feeling sorry for herself, she realized “that I have a lot of work to do this season and sooo much motivation, that you would not believe!”

Timmy the cat walking through a row of Flowering TobaccoPlease join me in congratulating the 2023 Floret Scholarship Winners by leaving a comment below. The team and I are thrilled to have this amazing group join us for our upcoming workshop.

If you’d like to learn more about the Floret Online Workshop be sure to visit our workshop page.

 

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280 Comments

  1. Tania Cubberly on

    It’s really great to see all the flower farmers here and reading their powerful stories. I am especially thankful to see two Ukrainian growers joining the online class. I am a first generation Ukrainian American. My heart and my soul has not stopped pushing for strength and determination for Ukrainian people. May their beautiful flowers bloom big and bright. Slava Ukraina!

    Reply
  2. Cara on

    Congratulations and thank you for adding more beautiful flowers into our lives 💐 ❤️

    Reply
  3. Carolina Santos on

    I am wondering how to access the 2023 workshop online. I am 2019 alumni. Pls advise. Thank you.

    Reply
  4. Bethany Easom on

    They really are inspiring stories. I am so glad they get the opportunity to be a part!

    Reply
  5. Annie on

    I read about each winner and their story. I felt connected to others around the world who connect with the love of flowers and what this beautiful act of growing has given to them in their life and how they in turn give to others. Thank you for sharing; it has touched my heart.
    Congratulations – I have truly enjoyed meeting all of you.

    Reply
  6. Sheila on

    Congratulations flower growers !
    Your stories are inspiring.

    Reply
  7. Ginny W on

    Loved reading their stories – congratulations to all, and I wish each of you success long after the workshop completes!

    Reply
  8. Julie Grim- Texoma Farms on

    Wow, I read all the stories and amazed at everyones’ stories. These are inspirational and motivating! Thanks for sharing and congratulations to everyone!

    Reply
  9. Dawn M on

    So much inspiration! Congratulations to all!

    Reply
  10. Crystal Odeneal on

    So happy for you all!! What a blessing! I just know your futures hold grand things, and Erin and the whole floret team will give you all, guidance towards enhancing you futures in flowers. How wonderful!! Congratulations to everyone 👏👏👏👏👏💝

    Reply
  11. Maria Lee on

    I’m so grateful to learn of all the Joy-filled recipients of this year’s Floret class. Reading each of your stories nudged me to hug God for your enthusiasm, and I’ve said a little prayer for each of you and your hope-filled paths forward:)<3

    Reply
  12. Nan Rogers on

    I loved reading the stories of all of the Floret scholarship winners. What a diverse group, and all with inspiring stories and goals. I share the love of growing flowers for the love of their beauty and the feelings of happiness they bring. Congratulations to all of the winners and may all of your flowers be beautiful!

    Reply
  13. Ellen O'Mahony on

    Wishing each and every one of you great success, joy, and happiness as you embark on this wonderful adventure with Erin, Jill, and the team. As an alumnus of the class of 2022, I continue to enjoy and I am thankful that I took the course last year. It has enhanced my life and brought much pleasure to my guests as they enjoy my garden. @grow_pick_love

    Reply
  14. Megan Bradford on

    Congrats to everyone! These scholarships are well deserved, and I look forward to continuing to hear where you all go from here!

    Reply
  15. Marcia Jaeger on

    Welcome to the Floret Learning Community! You will learn so much and share in the inspiration, you’ve inspired me 🌻

    Reply
  16. Kathleen on

    Exciting to see all these amazing recipients – so impressive and I look forward to seeing how their stories move forward. Enjoy the workshop!

    Reply
  17. Val on

    Thank you for sharing the stories of your scholarship recipients. They’re inspiring people! Best wishes to all who are changing the world through flowers and community.

    Reply
  18. Victoria Kulinich on

    What an amazing group of people! It’s an honor to learn parts of their stories and to be a part of this wonderful global community.

    Reply
  19. Karen on

    So excited for you all ! I have met some great friends either directly from the Floret community or friends of . The open ended classes are life saver when life gets in the way . No judgement keeps you going and learning while messing up or just having a messy life during that week . You can share your victories and issues with no judgement . I cant wait to order my book for next year !

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  20. gail butler on

    Congratulations to all the winners! You are going to get just what you need to make your dreams come true!

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  21. Susan TFL on

    What an amazing group of winners, Flowers are a window to Peace and Love.

    Reply
  22. Megan on

    In tears reading these beautiful stories of hope fueled by flowers. All so deserving, congratulations.

    Reply
  23. Alexandra (Lexi) Richards on

    Congratulations to all 23 of you! May you bring more beauty and grace to the world with flowers!
    Lexi Richards, Twiggage & Bloom

    Reply
  24. Molly T. on

    So excited for the scholarship winners to grow in their knowledge of flowers and all that’s related to being a flowers business. Yay!

    Reply
  25. Jessica Byrnes on

    Congratulations yall! Such inspiring stories. Thank you for sharing your stories and flowers with the world around you! I’m going to get to work so I can hopefully attend this class and pay for someone else to attend too someday. :) Thanks for the opportunity, Floret!

    Reply
  26. Michele on

    Congratulations! Thank you for sharing your stories with us. May you continue to find favor and be blessed with bounty in His kindness and goodness.

    Reply
  27. Sue Anne McLean on

    You will all be making the world a better place. Thank you!

    Reply
  28. Linda Whitaker on

    I was so touched by the stories about each person. Thank you for giving them the scholarship gifts. May they be blessed by your kindness and generosity in ways that touch others.

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  29. Desiree Scheel on

    I have just checked all of their Instagram accounts and I’m following. I LOVE flowers and I’m sure we’ll see a difference once they study and learn from the Floret Flower workshop.

    Reply
  30. Margo Margolis on

    A garden of souls . Best to all of you courageous gardeners .

    Reply
  31. Denise Kniss on

    Very exciting times are ahead of all the chosen candidates for this workshop! May you continue to be blessed and bless others with your newly found knowledge you receive at Florets Workshop. Congratulations!

    Reply
  32. Alan Miller on

    Congratulations to each and every scholarship winner…your stories are incredibly inspiring! I wish you all much success in reaching your goals!

    Reply
  33. Kirsten on

    So excited and proud Anatasia! You are incredible and I can’t wait to see you grow. You are going to do amazing! 🎉🌱🌷🌼
    Congratulations to all the other winners. Such a fantastic opportunity for everyone.

    Reply
  34. Emily Horton Kenefsky on

    Congratulations to everyone who won the scholarships! Your stories are beautiful and all so different, just like the flowers we all love to grow. Thank you for sharing this.

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  35. Ms Charlie Denes on

    Congratulations to all of you who won these amazing scholarships & excited to see some of you men who got in!!🥰

    Reply
  36. Lori on

    All so deserving of a once in a lifetime gift. May you all excede beyond the stars. Look forward everyday to share your joy and passion with your community and family. From Ohio , USA

    Reply
  37. Leslie Lotspeich on

    Congratulations to all of you! You inspire everyone. This journey will support your desire and ability to bring unexpected joy to the lives of so many people. Congratulations

    Reply
  38. Diane Janowak on

    What an amazing and inspiring group of gardeners! You motivate the rest of us. Hoping the class is the puzzle piece that launches your dreams!!

    Reply
  39. Cindy Aho on

    I loved every story! Inspired as well. Flowers are truly amazing and changes our life. Congratulations to each of you and blessings on your missions 🌸🌷💐

    Reply
  40. Lorrie Webb on

    Rock on flower people. These stories are so inspirational and I can’t help but get up and walk through my garden thinking of all of you.

    Reply
  41. Christine Lemieux on

    Congratulations! Reading your stories shows how much growing flowers can heal and bring joy; the world needs so much more of that. I wish you all the greatest success in moving forward with your dreams.

    Reply
  42. Beth on

    Crying with gratitude over the hope and beauty in these stories. Blessings on hands in dirt, and life springing from seeds in these lives.

    Reply
  43. Tammi Goff on

    Congratulations to all of the scholarship recipients! All well-deserved!

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  44. Heather Wiltshire on

    All so deserving of the scholarships and your stories are so inspiring. I wish you all success in your flower growing journeys but particularly to those in the Ukraine.

    Reply
  45. Janie on

    I don’t think you missed a single pc/woke category!

    Reply
  46. Karen on

    Love to read all these stories! Congratulations!

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  47. Karen D Storm on

    The stories of these winners is truly breathtaking! Somehow, they have gained the courage to push through their fear and in the process create beauty in a world that so desperately needs it.

    Reply
  48. Kate on

    What an inspiration to read! Congratulations to each of these amazing recipients!

    Reply
  49. Brenda on

    Congratulations to you all! It makes me so happy that so many of you are utilizing your skills and growing flowers to bless the whole world!

    Reply
  50. Janet Clifford on

    Congrats to all the winners of the Floret workshop scholarship. So many inspiring stories! Good luck with your flower journey!

    Reply
  51. Susanna on

    Complimenti e rimaniamo in attesa di vedere i vostri splendidi risultati!!

    Reply
  52. Beulah on

    A very well deserved Congratulations to everyone!
    All of your story’s give’s me great hope and inspiration.

    Reply
  53. Heidi on

    Congratulations fellow flower lovers may all your dreams blossom!!

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  54. Jodi Dynes on

    Every story is inspiring and hopeful! Congratulations to all the winners!

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  55. Jane on

    Congratulations to all of you. Enjoy every moment of your scholarship you are definitely all deserving of it xx

    Reply
  56. Ginger Quinn on

    Congratulations to the recipients! What inspiring stories!

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  57. Elizabeth Kelly on

    How wonderful! I loved reading these stories! Such inspiration. I adore the quotes from the applications too. Many congratulations and good tidings to all the winners!

    Reply
  58. Ilma Sagati on

    You all deserve this, and beautiful stories indeed. Congratulations all👏 👏 👏

    Reply
  59. Jettie on

    Oh goodness…all of the stories/bio’s are so impactful, I am praying over all of you! YOU ARE DOING GREAT THINGS!!! Keep on striving and realizing your dreams. Thank You Floret for you impact on our world. Excited for a follow-up post on these folks and their accomplishments!!

    Reply
  60. Laurie on

    What a beautiful group! Congratulations to all!!

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  61. Sharon Hoskins on

    Congratulations to all the recipients! Especially Moonrose Farm- Now we will have two Floret Grads and beautidul flower farms in little Rehoboth, MA! Sharon from
    Brilliant Dahlia Flower Farm- 2020 grad!!

    Reply
  62. Elizabeth Kooiman on

    Congratulations to all of you! It is such a wonderful course full of detailed information and ideas.

    Reply
  63. Chris Moore on

    CONGRATULATIONS to all of you!!! It’s still a beautiful beautiful world full of great people.

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  64. Susan Pelletier on

    Great job on your picks! Gave me some ideas how I can give back during next years growing season. Best wishes to all.

    Reply
  65. Katrina on

    Wow I am so touched by these stories and have tears in my eyes. I was very disappointed to not win the scholarship but I had a feeling the winners would have stories of resilience and strength and I am SO HAPPY for all of them. This is amazing. Good luck and congratulations to each and every winner!

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  66. Stormy on

    My heart is bursting for all of the recipients! Get ready, this course is a game-changer, for sure!

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  67. Georgia on

    So exciting to see such a diverse group!!! Hoping that this scholarship takes them a little closer to all of their dreams! Floret making this world prettier through a human at a time!!! Or should I say 23 at a time =o)

    Reply
  68. Tracey Williams on

    I feel so much inspiration & emotion reading the stories and journeys of each scholarship recipient; my heart is full!! … what an incredible diverse community you are creating and building …

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  69. Annie on

    How beautiful this all is… like one big international family! Flowers rooting for us and bringing us all together to do good, beautiful, important work. Truly inspiring!

    Reply
  70. Sara Dwyer on

    Wow! Many inspirational stories (hard to read through the watery eyes). Congratulations to the scholarship recipients, may their futures and flowers grow well. Keep up the wonderful work Erin & team, this is a very important thing that you do.

    Reply
  71. Anna on

    Congrats to all! I enjoyed reading each and every one of your stories.

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  72. Robyn Dowling on

    What a beautiful and colourful beginning to an important soulful journey for all. I loved seeing your faces, flowers and reading a little about your world and ideas which validate over again the power of the flower.

    Reply
  73. Rosenard Barillo on

    Wow 🤩 Huge Congratulations! 🎉 As a Gardener-Beginner, I am happy and was inspired by the different kinds of story in flower gardening… To learn and study more in upgrading my little garden flowers, to plant more flowers and to watch and learn more from your stories. THANK you so much 💖 Florets Flower Farm 🌻 in this big opportunity you have showed to me! 😍 Forever grateful! 🙏😇

    Reply
  74. Vera Tim-ko on

    My heart goes out to all the people of Ukraine and all who have been effected by the current situation. I cry, as I’m reading all of your stories, Ukraine is my home town (immigrated to the States at age 7). My early years of life were spent in greenhouses of chrysanthemums, which parents planted to take to markets. Now I’m a mom and am planting flowers with my little ones (for self with dreams to one day grow lots). It brings us great joy to share the beauty with others.
    Erin, thank you for the inspiration, your amazing books, and all that your putting out there.
    Love and congrats to all people who are working so hard to bring beauty to this world! Congratulations to all the winners of the scholarship!!!!

    Reply
  75. Joanna on

    Well done to everyone involved and how wonderful Floret can offer such an expansive course to further learning, growth, working co-operatively, abundance and generosity of spirit that you all have in spades. I wish you all the very best of success and happiness on your colourful flower journey! Xx

    Reply
  76. Marcia K Houston on

    Wow! Amazing people, all so worthy! How the world can change in a flower garden!

    Reply
  77. Lisa H on

    CONGRATULATIONS! I hope your hearts are filled with the magic of flowers and your dreams lift you beyond the struggles. I am so happy for each and everyone of you 💗 🌸

    Reply
  78. Brandy J on

    Reading these reflections from the scholarship recipients lights a fire in my heart for the ways flower gardening affects the growers and their communities. I believe in my heart that the ripples from this work will circle our world with beauty and healing.

    Reply
  79. Olga on

    I am always inspired by your farm. Thank you and your team for support Ukrainian farmers. It’s very important for us now 🙏🇺🇦

    Reply
  80. Perla Tortosa on

    Wow, what an amazing group of people. Some of your stories made me cry (with joy). Good luck to you all in your flower journey.

    Reply
  81. Helé on

    What an absolutely amazing opportunity!!!! Well done to each of you. I’m so jealous.

    Reply
  82. kathy on

    Congratulations everyone, you all deserve the best in life and may all your dreams for growing beautiful abundance flow into reality ,

    Reply
  83. Dani on

    Thrilled for all those blessed by this opportunity! And grinning from ear to ear at the abundance of blessings that will come from this fabulous group of individuals!

    Reply
  84. Carina on

    How wonderful! Congratulations to all of them. Thanks, Floret, for providing such and amazing opportunity.

    Reply
  85. Heather/ Havenfrost Farm on

    Congratulation to all the scholarship winners! It is exciting to know they will be helped along their path with the Floret team behind them. A shout out to Vanessa Hall- my granddaughter also has Ehlers-Danlos. I wish you the very best. I’m cheering for all of the winners in their journey to make all their dreams come true!

    Reply
  86. Basetsana on

    I am so happy for all of them. Congratulations to you all. Go on and soar 😍😍😍

    Reply
  87. Kate Harrison on

    Erin and Team,
    By the time I finished reading each one of the winner’s stories I was in tears. I am so happy for all of them for this opportunity to be able to feed the dreams that are so worthwhile. Thank you Erin for providing this online course for them.
    Kate

    Reply
  88. Josie on

    Oh my, your lives are about to florish! Blessings to all!

    Reply
  89. Josie on

    So exciting, you guys will love it!! Erin and team are so generous.

    Reply
  90. Rebeccah Stripling on

    Many congratulations to all who have achieved this amazing scholarship ! What you learn will stay with you and help you go forward in so many ways! Well done and good luck to all!

    Reply
  91. Elsy on

    Congratulations to everyone !!!!

    Reply
  92. Stefanie on

    Big congrats to all of you inspiring gardeners! Enjoying all the learning and growing to come!

    Reply
  93. Kathryn on

    I am experiencing tears of joy (and sadness) as I read through these inspiring stories. The sadness is for all those who have lost loved ones and for those experiencing the war in the Ukraine. I have had a recent loss and am going through the grief process myself. Cut flowers in my home help me to focus on the beauty in the world. Congratulations to all the Floret recipients!

    Reply
  94. Pia Lejonquist on

    Cangrats to you all! And good luck with spreading the joy of flowers! 🇸🇪

    Reply
  95. Mignon Thiffault on

    Congratulations to all of you! You are all so very inspiring and I have no doubt yourselves, as well as those in your circle of influence will benefit from your scholarship and participation in the workshop! As the say…..GROW ON🌹🌸🌺🌷🌻🌼💐.

    Reply
  96. Shannon C on

    A big ‘congrats’ to all the people listed here today — you have so much light to share in this world, and are doing amazing work for many!
    Keep doing all the beautiful things…. and remember that each day you create a little bit more joy that spreads to all :-) xo

    Reply
  97. Catherine MacNeal on

    What a fabulous and deserving group of scholarship recipients. As an alum of the workshop, I can only rave about how helpful this will be to all of you in your flower journeys.

    Reply
  98. Kristi Hein on

    I’m sitting here in tears, after reading all the stories — the hopes and dreams, the hard work, incredible challenges, and generous giving and positive activism. Sending love and admiration to all, and flower solidarity in this shared journey!

    Reply
  99. Kathy on

    Wow. What an inspirational bunch of flower folks! I love it! I’ve found motivation and clarity even in these small bios. Thank you. Farm on people!

    Reply
  100. Gigi Copeland on

    Wonderful people living lives inspired by beauty, hope and connection! I look forward to seeing you make dreams prosper!

    Reply
  101. Kira Wilson on

    Congratulations to all who received this amazing opportunity. Such a blessing to have flowers in our lives! Learn, love, share, let’s all grow together 🙏♥️

    Reply
  102. Jodie Morrison on

    Excited for you all! May the blessings be shared throughout the world. Congratulations 👏

    Reply
  103. Mary McCord on

    I am so happy for you all and to see how international you all are is kind of breathtaking. You will learn so much and the camaraderie with others will stick with you for a lifetime.

    Reply
  104. Kristjansen Villanueva on

    Congratulations everyone! I am planning to apy next year! What a diverse group of amazing people.

    Reply
  105. Kate on

    Wow, I really the diverse population and locations! Sending flower bouquets of love, best wishes and beauty.

    Reply
  106. pat mcguire on

    I am impressed by the diversity of growers selected: the number who speak of the mental health benefits; inclusiveness; giving back, building and supporting community; representation from many continents; and the Ukrainian growers.
    You reach so far and wide Erin. Thank you.

    Reply
  107. Rylee on

    Congratulations everyone! And thank you to Erin and the floret team for helping dreams come true ❤️

    Reply
  108. Val on

    I am so inspired to read about your wonderful new students and their special stories. It gives me hope for the future. Congratulations!

    Reply
  109. Kim on

    I was so deeply touched as I was drawn to read about each one of the workshop winners. I will think often of them and pray for the fulfillment of each of their dreams. Thank you so much, Floret, for all you are doing. Flowers are truly one of the best blessings of life.

    Reply
  110. Deb on

    Congratulations to one and all! 💐

    Reply
  111. Kristin on

    What a spread! Great to see representation across the globe, but especially exciting to see two growers from Thurston county, WA. Excited for them to bring beauty, knowledge, and shared experiences back into our community.

    Reply
  112. LindainArlington on

    The stories shared are inspiring for so many reasons. From those who faced extreme struggles to those who love plants are their gardens in peace, each story drew a thought of gratitude. Congratulations, one and all!

    Reply
  113. Aimee on

    It brings tears to my eyes to read about each and every one of these beautiful people around the world, growing flowers and sharing that beauty with the world! CONGRATULATIONS!!!

    Reply
  114. Nathalie Bossé on

    Congratulations to all scholarship recipients. You are models in a world that needs more beauty!

    Reply
  115. Ellen on

    It is so heartening to hear of other medical mothers finding healing through flowers. Congratulations all!

    Reply
  116. Jeri on

    I think you chose the perfect group to receive your scholarships. Their stories of change, loss and hope are inspiring! All the best to each one of them!

    Reply
  117. Devon on

    Congratulations 🎉🎉

    Reply
  118. Robin on

    Congratulations to all of you!!! Beautiful stories from All over the world 🌍

    Reply
  119. Amy on

    Wow! What an incredible group of brave, smart, resilient people. I am excited to see where this adventure takes you!

    Reply
  120. Jo Morter on

    Congrats to all the recipients! May your pretty flowers and your beautiful spirits continue to blossom and inspire….

    Reply
  121. Christine Voorhees on

    Congratulations everyone!! Such beautiful sentiments. I feel like I’m the one who received the scholarship (no, I didn’t apply :) ) but my excitement at the potential and possibility of ALL of you is what makes me feel like I won! You make the world a better place.

    Reply
  122. Catherine on

    These stories were very moving. they reminded me to be grateful I can garden without the burdens, both physical and emotional, that these determined gardeners contend with on a daily basis. Thank you Floret and congratulations to each scholarship recipient for sharing.

    Reply
  123. Kelsey Saragusa on

    I love to see others on the journey to spread happiness with their flowers. I often tell others “it’s a labor of love” I started off doing a botany lesson for my preschoolers and it took off. Seeing the joy it brought to them became my reason for why. But then as my obsession grew, I began sharing arrangements with my neighbors and loved ones. I relate with so many of these individuals! Some day I hope to have more time and resources to grow bigger but for now I’m just a backyard local spot sharing my love of nature and flowers with these kiddos. ❤️

    Reply
  124. Barbara Byers on

    What beautiful gestures grown by the hands with love. Thank you for your inspiration.

    Reply
  125. Edna Sudi on

    Wow beautiful inspiring stories from around the world that have encouraged me so much and congratulations to all the winners!

    Reply
  126. Karen on

    Thank you Erin for offering the scholarships and sharing the stories of these inspiring people.

    Reply
  127. Lee Ann Marienthal on

    Congratulations one and all! After reading all these stories I feel so hopeful and grateful. There is so much creative beauty in our world. Well done Floret for bringing us all together.

    Reply
  128. Karen M on

    23 recipients for 2023. Cool! That worked out nicely!

    Congratulations everyone!

    Reply
  129. Kelly on

    I love these stories and the inspiration behind them. You all will reap the rewards you sow along with the seeds and bulbs you plant!! Woot-woot!!

    Reply
  130. KC on

    Congratulations to all. I love seeing so many from all over the world.

    Reply
  131. Carol on

    Amazing stories…Congratulations to all the well-deserved winners! I am inspired and amazed by all of you!

    Reply
  132. Carol Birch on

    Well don Floret!! A wonderful group of women, and men I am sure, that all are so very worthy of your scholarships. As others here have said, we all are similar despite our different backgrounds!!

    Reply
  133. Terri DiMartino on

    Wowzers! Reading each essay I am in awe of such amazing students. Smart, eager and dedicated to making their communities a better place. Congratulations!!

    Reply
  134. Deb Dwyer on

    Congratulations to all the recipients, you have this great opportunity. Erin is very generous for this opportunity. You all have a great stories and your flower journey will just get better!!!!!. Hoping Floret can highlight some of you in the coming years and how this program benefited your business.

    Reply
  135. Shelly on

    Congratulations to the scholarship recipients! Every single story is so incredibly inspiring. It’s awesome to see how the connection to Floret Flowers, a hunger for gardening & growing something beautiful, spans across the globe! There is truly something cathartic & renewing about this! It’s a glimmer of hope for our world! ♥️

    Reply
  136. Billie Villalba on

    Congratulations to all the 2023 recipients. I don’t think there is enough space to write my inner thoughts about floret and your breathtaking flowers and the programs you offer. In the beginning when I started growing from seeds, I had no idea how this would help me through the most difficult experience in my life of my father passing away unexpectedly this year. This love of flowers and God has kept me grounded and working with your hands in the soil and seeing these beautiful flowers growing seems to continue to amaze me every time I start seeing them pop there little green heads from the ground. Thank you, for all you do for the people that can’t get enough of flowers all different kinds. God bless.

    Reply
  137. Tracy Shelton on

    What an amazing tapestry that is being woven with people with such diverse life journeys! And the desire to grow beautiful flowers is at the very heart of every story! Thank you Floret for the opportunities and the inspiration you are providing!

    Reply
  138. Janet on

    Flowers bring love, loves creates hope, hope inspires dreams. A huge hug to all the recipients from White Cottage Farm in Duck River. TN.

    Reply
  139. Alex Busche on

    Congrats to all winners ! It’s such a great oportunity and very kind of Erin to do this. I am sure she has selected well :-) I wish all of you a great time with this course – it must be amazing. Courage and Inspiration for beautiful unique bouquets and extra courage to the Ukraine. Alex from the south of France

    Reply
  140. Tracey Brookshier on

    How lovely that your scholarship recipients are from all over the world, and are diverse in their culture and backgrounds! My hope is that they will connect with each other and form bonds that will enhance their chances for success and possibly create travel exchange opportunities for those interested and able to do so. The more we know about other people’s experiences in the world, the more we realize how similar we are, despite our differences.

    Reply
  141. Christine Kilgore on

    As I read through each profile, a theme emerged: growth and healing. These are really challenging times for all- due to war, economic stressors, personal health struggles and loss etc… But despite these challenges (or perhaps inspired by!) amazingly each recipient strives to dig deep, nurture their souls and those of others- by sharing knowledge, time, and the bounty of their harvest. To do so requires skill, motivation, and business acumen. What inspiration!!!!
    Floret offers the inspiration, knowledge, and most importantly, the heart and soul of the grower’s provenance. Congrats to all and sending love for your journey!!

    Mystic Willow Farm

    Reply
  142. Lizbeth on

    Congrats on all who won the scholarship. I too find peace and hope in flowers! May god bless you in your journey.

    Reply
  143. Renata Dennis on

    Congratulations! You are making the world better, one bouquet at a time!

    Reply
  144. Susan Rodgers on

    Well I have to admit that when I found out I was not a recipient I was bummed.. But after getting to know the recipients, wow not that I’m deserving but they are definitely more deserving of it than me. I am not anywhere near in a place where they are. My heart, hope and prayers go out to them. With your program I pray that they just flourish and are successful. They are all amazing and inspiring God-bless them all!

    Reply
  145. Kim Mowers on

    Hi, Erin:

    Thank you for introducing your scholarship winners. Their stories are so inspirational and heartwarming. I have been a follower of yours for years and I just gave all three of you books, as a closing present, to a clients who’s house I just sold. They are building a new home on several acres of land that they purchased to grow a cutting garden. The gift was received with such awe, and her comment was, “Thank you so much, Erin is the rock star of growers”. On another note, I live in Medina, Ohio that is not far from Norwalk. I have a 3-tier stack-n-grow lights system and growing trays from Gardener’s Supply Company that I would like to donate to Rebecca to help her along on her flower journey. Silly, me! I purchased them during the pandemic wanting to grow my own vegetables, but I live in a condo and do not have the room to plant what I grow. I would appreciate you contacting her to see if these are items that she might want.

    Reply
  146. Gerry Betz on

    This is such a wonderful thing you do for people. You should be proud of the help and knowledge this will provide the recipients. I am so happy to have Florette in our back yard here in Western Washington. Your selection is such a inclusive group of people, you chose well.

    Reply
  147. Sarah Kass on

    Each of these recipients has a story of uplift and inspiration. We are ALL (regardless of stage or station in life, present struggles, or circumstances) that there is hope and resilience in connecting with and caring for the earth and others!! Their stories are uniquely remarkable. Floret has a reach that is beautifully far and diverse. Good on Floret and each of these deserving recipients!!
    Fair winds…

    Reply
  148. Lori on

    Floret is like this amazing life saving ring that is thrown out for folks to grab on to and start or enhance the adventure they are headed to. Honestly, I’m not sure is which is bigger; Florets beautiful flower gardens or their hearts.

    Reply
  149. Tracey Sherman on

    Such a beautiful introduction to all your scholarship recipients. I, too, am a huge fan of Floret, but more than that, I am always bowled over by the Floret team’s generosity: the blog, stories you share and people you introduce us to, free mini courses, guides…the list goes on and on. All that sharing takes time and energy! Congratulations to all the recipients. May this course be a turning point in their lives, help make the world a more beautiful place for all, and may Floret’s legacy of sharing be multiplied through all our work!

    Reply
  150. Darlene MacDonald on

    Congratulation to the 2023 recipients! Thank you for making the world a beautiful place; one stem at a time!
    Also, thank you to Erin & her team @ Floret for providing this opportunity & for sharing your knowledge & expertise! “Pay It Forward” is a beautiful gift! Thank you!

    Reply
  151. Cathy Kerr on

    Reading each of these stories is so inspiring! I recently learned that what I call my street garden ( about 12’ x 40’ between the sidewalk and the curb) is being used by a neighborhood therapist with her patients. These stories are further testament of the healing power of sharing our gardens. Congratulations all!

    Reply
  152. Glenda Isaac on

    Loved reading the stories. Congratulations to all the recipients- what a thrill! 🇨🇦

    Reply
  153. Maureen on

    I am not sure which is more amazing, all the smiling faces or the flowers they hold. Together they are the picture of beautiful inspiration. I love Floret.

    Reply
  154. Judymcelderry on

    What a wonderful diverse group of people. Congratulations to everyone!

    Reply
  155. Lea on

    As a disabled florist it is really heart warming to see the wonderful community of folks with health challenges and disability who will be uplifted by this scholarship! The care in selecting people with many different identities and experiences shines through and it is very touching! I’m sure the course will be enriched by the diversity of knowledge and wisdom that all these amazing gardeners will bring :)

    Reply
  156. Claudia Di Schiavi on

    Congratulations to all the recipients! You are inspiring and beautiful! Thank you for making the world a better place! Hugs, Claudia

    Reply
  157. Mariana Menezes on

    Hello everyone at Floret,
    I am a huge fan and your work has inspired me for years. I wish some day i can take the course and will continue to try for the scholarship. I think that the recipients are beautifully chosen but i would like to suggest to include also more recipients from South America, Africa, and less developed countries. Usually there is a high concentration on the US, Australia and New Zealand and other developed countries.The impact on small business in countries such as my own Brazil offers a huge potential to be replicated. Also access to high quality training and information is more limited considering exchange rates.
    Love the pumpkin guide and truly, a huge fan and admirer.

    Reply
  158. beth quigley on

    All these stories brought tears to my eyes on what these scholarship winners have gone through; and their vision of the future.
    Thank you, Erin and team for helping them to beautify the world!

    Reply
  159. Lynda Dorrington on

    What an amazing group of individuals all travelling different inspiring paths. Congratulations and welcome to the global Floret family. You are going to love the learning and the network.

    Reply
  160. Amanda on

    I loved hearing each winners story and how they were lead to apply to your course! Very inspiring group of people!!

    Reply
  161. Elaine McGuinness on

    Oh Wow-such a diverse and passionate group, this will make for a vibrant bunch of participants. Huge thanks to Floret for connecting all – Wonderful. Congratulations everyone!

    Reply
  162. Samantha on

    Congratulations to everyone! It’s so inspiring to read the stories of all these amazing people. What a magical program! 💐

    Reply
  163. Kathy DeForest on

    Congratulations, each and every one of you!. You exemplify the love, hope and faith of flowers. Best wishes for a wonderful future with flowers.

    Reply
  164. Paul on

    Dear Erin,

    You are truly a wonderful person.
    I thought about applying for a scholarship but got busy with life…mostly a Sweet Girl named Artemis. She is my 11th grandbabe and 11months old this week. I get to babysit her more than I did any of my 6 six children and 10 grandkids because I am mostly retired now.
    When I got this email and started looking at and reading about all the pepes who got scholarships, I realized what a sweet and caring you are.

    Truly touched my heart.

    I was stationed over on Whidbey Island when I was in the Marines back in the 70’s and remember the first time I saw the tulips fields of Skagit Valley.
    Wow.

    Would love to come up for Tulip Fest I. 2023 and maybe visit your farm.

    Peace and Love to You and Yours

    Paul

    Reply
  165. Mara on

    What incredible lives these worthy recipients are reaching for. May they know they bring hope and joy with the work they do with flowers.

    Reply
  166. Christine on

    Congratulations to all who have begun a new chapter of growing life and love…. each having their own unique story, but all the same with a never ending passion that will be passed along for generations.

    Reply
  167. Brooke on

    CONGRATULATIONS! Excited for your journey!

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  168. Sarah on

    WOW! How deserving they all are and what amazing stories. 💖 Thank you for sharing their journey!

    Reply
  169. Colleen Martin on

    How much is it to give a scholarship? I might like to do that next year.

    Reply
  170. Renée Fisher on

    In my mind’s eye, I can imagine the James Webb space telescope looking back on Earth in FULL BLOOM as these lucky recipients improve each of their flower farms with the knowledge they will gain from Floret’s in-depth program. Thanks Erin and team for spreading your knowledge all over the world!

    Reply
  171. Suzanne N on

    Wishing all of you success as you enjoy your workshop. May the knowledge you learn bring more flowers, and thus joy, in to the world! :)

    Reply
  172. Carrie on

    Well done everyone!!!

    Reply
  173. Lena on

    Cingratulations to all! Such a beautiful journey you’ve picked. Learn, enjoy and pass along!

    Reply
  174. Sophie on

    Excited to see how all the flowers spread love and joy and how the people growing them do as well! Beautiful gift to relieve this blessing they so deserved!

    Reply
  175. Lu on

    Thank you Floret for taking the time to share all these amazing stories with us. May each of you winners be blessed above and beyond all you could imagine. May this journey bring health healing and wholeness to each of you and those you touch with your gifts of love. To All Floret team members may your blessings be huge. Great harvests.

    Reply
  176. Katherine Hogan on

    Congratulations! Reading these stories I envision a patchwork carpet of flowers linking communities around the world.

    Reply
  177. A Little Flùr Farm on

    Congratulations to those who received a scholarship. Your stories and dreams are inspiring. For the many that didn’t, keep going, keep moving forward, take the steps, use the resources available, and complete the goals to make your dreams happen anyway! You can do this, and you are deserving too. All the best to all!

    Reply
  178. Idaho flower Power on

    Congrats to all the non BIPOC people! I didn’t even bother to try because it specifically said that BIPOC will be picked over everyone else.

    Reply
  179. Heather Champney on

    Oh how exciting! I love the diversity of this group and can’t wait to see how everyone shares their varied experiences. Congratulations to all!

    Reply
  180. Amy Hurst on

    Wonderful group of folks doing so much good stuff in the world. Very moving stories that brought tears to my eyes! Keep up the great work, everyone, and thank you Floret for making an impact with your scholarship program. Reaching out to the farms working with folks with disabilities and nuerodiversity to learn and connect as my organization is creating a job training farm for youth on the autism spectrum, Learning 4 Life Farm – great way to connect through this network!

    Reply
  181. marie claire moncorgé on

    Belle réussite à vous tous. ! Un formidable élan à vous tous, soyez fiers et profitez de cette belle formation. Et vive la beauté des fleurs…

    Reply
  182. Carin Moolman on

    Congratulations to all the winners! I feel blessed to have become part of the global flower community. There can never be too much joy, healing, helping, inspiring, teaching, learning, kindness and love. The world need us. Floret, your vision of sharing and paying it forward are wonderful!

    Reply
  183. Mary on

    I am so happy for you all and I wish you lots of fun, joy and happiness while doing the course and afterwards. May your love of flowers and nature bring joy to many.

    Reply
  184. Gabrielle Anne Tumminello on

    Congratulations all! May you all be blessed with wisdom & insight as you take this course. I wish you all success with the course & beyond! Dreams do come true and I will try again next year, hopefully by then I’ll be starting my own farm!!!

    Reply
  185. Cheryl - Dragonfly Farm Design on

    We have all felt the tug you feel, to align and immerse yourself in growing flowers. No matter what the inspiration was, ( career change, empowerment , empty nesting, a family member, hardship, loss, search for joy) you have positioned yourselves to take the next step. Congratulations and we wish you happiness, health and success. !!!

    Reply
  186. Annie on

    To each and everyone of you a big heartfelt congratulations. It touched me reading your motivation to give and receive healing for those hurting through experiences and broken from life circumstances. Flowers speak a language of beauty, hope and healing. Please, if you can , share your journey through what you’re learning . Congratulations 👏🎉♥️🎈

    Reply
  187. Theresa on

    Wow! Congratulations to all! Thank you for sharing your stories and bringing your light to the world through flowers.

    Reply
  188. Jeanne Garner on

    Such amazing stories from the new class of flower growers.I wish you all much success in your new adventure.
    So happy to see a fellow South African in the group!

    Reply
  189. Denise on

    Congratulations to all the winners. Their stories are so inspiring! What a better, prettier, accepting world we will all get to live in.

    Reply
  190. Joanne Hudock on

    Congratulations to everyone, I am so inspired to start my little cutting gardens in the spring by you all.
    I hope you all achieve your dreams and goals and continue to persevere. Kudos to you all and a huge thank you to Floret for your passion.

    Reply
  191. Jacqui Kennemer on

    Congrats on this learning journey you are all on! What a wonderful gift and experience you have in store for you. May you all expand in your joy-bringing work that makes the world brighter as you share your passion for flowers. Happy growing everyone!

    Reply
  192. Dolly Perry on

    Congratulations on winning! I’m so glad that you have won and more importantly that you will learn new skills that will allow you to improve your own situation as well as help your communities! God bless you all!

    Reply
  193. Jessica De Luna on

    Congratulations to all of you! I am so happy to see that you guys will grow a small seed into colors that will change the world. Thank you! I can’t wait to see what you guys accomplish!

    Reply
  194. Rene’ on

    Congratulations to all the scholarship winners. Good luck with the course and bringing all that beauty and knowledge back to your communities.

    Reply
  195. Jess on

    Congratulations to all the winners! What a wonderful journey this will be for you and your community of family, friends, and the lives you will touch.
    Flowers and gardening is life, what I love most is the life that comes alive when I am in my garden. I call it my daily chores in heaven. ENJOY this wonderful experience and CONGRATULATIONS!!!

    Reply
  196. Kitty Young on

    Congratulations to all the winners of Floret’s Scholarships. I can’t wait to see how this not only beautifies our earth, but enriches the souls of the gardeners and all the recipients from the fruits of their labor. Such a wonderful positive opportunity.

    Reply
  197. Brenda Metz on

    Congratulations!! So cool to read all their stories and see where they’re from, along with some awesome pics with their gorgeous flowers ! What an inspiration! Have fun!

    Reply
  198. Sherri Love on

    Congrats to all of you!!! WOW, I am impressed with these stories of victory in these life situations. I know you all will have much success with this workshop.

    Reply
  199. LD on

    Imagine all of the happiness that is being spread through Floret. I am in awe. Congratulations to all the recipients and Erin and her staff for spreading joy.

    Reply
  200. Stephany on

    Congratulations! Your stories and efforts are so incredibly inspiring! Thank you for sharing your courage and passion with us. Thank you Floret flowers for bringing this inspiration to us.

    Reply
  201. Anissa on

    Congratulations to the winners, what an exciting time this will be for all! Best wishes to you all and good luck in your future endeavors!

    Reply
  202. Jennifer Bruns on

    What an inspiration to read about other peoples lives and have it all surround one thing: flowers! Thank you Floret for putting time into sharing this for others to read and the reasons for why they won. Very uplifting

    Reply
  203. Rosanna Pereyra on

    Congratulations to all of the winners! I admire all of you for your passion, dedication and hard work that ultimately brings so much joy and beauty into the world.

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  204. Kathy on

    Congratulations to everyone!!!! I feel like I have won by just getting to hear all the incredible and inspiring stories. Good luck to all.
    God Bless.

    Reply
  205. Andrea on

    Congratulations to all the recipients and what a wonderful and generous initiative started by Floret!

    Reply
  206. Noe Mathis on

    Congratulations to everyone! May your dreams continue to grow with the knowledge and understanding you gain from this workshop.

    Reply
  207. Taylor on

    Incredible to see the worldwide impact this program will have. What a wonderful group of farmers! So looking forward to seeing how these dedicated flower farmers learn and grow through this.

    Reply
  208. Sharon Michelle Webster on

    Congratulations to this year’s scholarship winners ~ you are all deserving and I wish you all so much success

    Reply
  209. Mac on

    Every story is so inspiring. It just reminds one how interconnected we are on this beautiful planet. Wishing all your participants the best of luck!

    Reply
  210. Julie Knowles on

    Congrats to all. I’m sure you’ll be making good use of your time with Floret, and making life happier for a lot of people.

    Reply
  211. Brandy Duncan on

    What a beautiful group of farmers! Excellent job intentionally choosing each unique story!

    Reply
  212. Melissa Hamilton on

    Congratulations to all the winners; the world will be a better place because of this, because of Floret, and because of you. We are rooting for you all!

    Reply
  213. Lies - Ruysch Bloemen on

    So thoughtful of you to give the scholarship to two Ukrainian flowerfarmers🧡🌼 congratulations everyone!

    Reply
  214. Liz McGregor on

    Wonderful stories and journeys to learn about and learn from. Congratulations!

    Reply
  215. Christine A Moran on

    Congratulations to everyone!! We are better for learning of your brave and brilliant stories!

    Reply
  216. Frannie on

    Congratulations to all of the amazing recipients! Their stories are incredibly inspiring and are a reminder me to continue pursuing my own dream of running a flower farm.

    Reply
  217. Patricia Verdoorn on

    Congratulations to all!! Such compelling and inspirational stories. Best wishes for the workshop and your growing seasons.

    Reply
  218. angie baechtold on

    I was not selected to be a recipient, but I am overjoyed to read the stories of each scholarship person. I am beyond touched by the resilience and passion they have. They have inspired me to be better person, better flower farmer and give more to my community and to myself. I wish everyone who plants a seed and picks a flower and uses it for goodness the very best! -angie

    Reply
  219. Freya on

    I am also happy to see Villa Verde Farm on the list. Follow them from March.

    Reply
  220. Joanne Harrelson on

    So happy to see so many people from all over the world. Congratulations to all of them.

    Reply
  221. janet hall on

    All so well deserved! Was so excited to see one that I follow on facebook and lives not too far from me! May be taking a trip soon!!

    Reply
  222. Martha Henry on

    Congratulations, just know you are not alone. You have your Floret tribe praying for you every day. Sending much love from California…

    Reply
  223. Trisha on

    Congratulations everyone!! Such inspiring stories!!

    Reply
  224. Erica Rose on

    What a fun post to read! Congratulations to all of the recipients!

    Reply
  225. Tiffany on

    Such touching stories!!!! Congratulations to you all!!!

    Reply
  226. June Charette on

    Fantastic to see that the winners are from all over the world, very touching stories from the Ukrainian winners.
    Congratulations to all & it’s wonderful that you spread the love of gardening & flowers😊

    Reply
  227. Steph on

    Congrats to all these beautiful fighters, survivors, givers of beauty! May God bless your future endeavors of beautiful flowers and helping others.

    Reply
  228. Sharon Kegerreis on

    Congratulations! Your stories are inspiring. I wish you all great success and happiness amid the blooms and adventures ahead.

    Reply
  229. Kathleen on

    Congratulations to all of the winners 😊 your stories are beautiful, and I pray God’s blessings continue to flow down upon you all ❤️

    Reply
  230. CookingwithJayB on

    Those were a joy to read! I’m very excited for all the winners and I think it’s wonderful that you offer scholarships!

    Reply
  231. Melinda on

    Congratulations!!! Best wishes to you all in fulfilling your dreams.

    Reply
  232. Mary Anne Decker on

    Congratulations to all, what a wonderful group of flower lovers you all are. So well deserved!

    Reply
  233. Lee W. Cockrum on

    Congratulations to everyone!! Everyone has such wonderful aspirations for their future in flowers!

    Reply
  234. Lyndsey on

    Congratulations to each and everyone of you! You all have beautiful stories. I hope this course helps make all of your flower dreams come true. 😊

    Reply
  235. Siri on

    Yulia!! My dear flower sister in Ukraine. So happy to see her name on this list, and a huge congrats to everyone <3

    Reply
  236. Jan on

    So lovely to hear everyone’s story and how their hard work is benefiting their communities! Congrats to all & Erin your generosity is such a blessing.

    Reply
  237. Juhász Renáta on

    Gratulálok! Sok sikert kívánok mindenkinek! Kívánom, hogy valóra váljon az összes ” virágos” álmotok!

    Reply
  238. Ellie Jensen on

    Congratulations to all of the scholarship recipients. Inspiring stories and dreams!!

    Reply
  239. Brenda Bailey on

    Congrats ! You all have come the realization that flowers bring joy, and that joy can change our world.

    Reply
  240. Carolyn on

    Congrats to all- what inspiring stories! Soak in all the goodness of the workshop and dream big! I’m alumni of 2021 workshop and it was such a boost in my business. I refer back to the course book and videos often! Best wishes! 🫶🏼
    Carolyn
    Joy in Hand Flower Farm

    Reply
  241. Charlotte M. on

    Congratulations to all the recipients. Their stories are so inspiring and it never ceases to amaze me the healing power of flowers. Thank you Floret.

    Reply
  242. Gina Bally-Auguste on

    Congratulations everyone ❤️, my dream is to have a flower farm and I have a lot to learn🤗

    Reply
  243. Jessica on

    Congratulations everyone. Happy growing.

    Reply
  244. Krista on

    Congratulations to everyone! So many beautiful faces and flowers!

    Reply
  245. Neetu Gursahani on

    More flowers More smiles.It has been a journey ,hope you all enjoy it as much as I have.
    Congrats to all !

    Reply
  246. Susan on

    Wonderful, what life-affirming projects. It will be wonderful to follow their journeys. If they have insta/social media could we know their accounts so we can cheer them on?

    Reply
  247. Patricia Demmie on

    Erin, what a beautiful way to give back. To all recipients, what a great gift and opportunity! I am sure you all will thoroughly enjoy this experience. Congratulations.

    Reply
  248. Kimberly Miller on

    Wow! So many amazing stories. Thanks Erin and Floret for all you do to help people find Joy in flowers. All these stories make my heart happy. Been a floral designer/local cut flower gardener for 45 years.

    Reply
  249. Sallyann Buetenshaw on

    Being chosen to be part of this amazing team has left me blooming with joy and eager to share the journey with you all.
    Your stories are inspirational and I can’t wait to be part of your dreams. Thank you Erin and the Floret Team and everyone who has left a message. I will most certainly pass on the love. I hope to see you all at Little Paddocks Mogo one day.
    Sally🌻

    Reply
  250. Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick on

    Congratulations! I know you will find the workshop to be so inspiring and fulfilling as I did. Enjoy the journey and dream big!

    Reply
  251. Lisa Clow on

    Congratulations! You’re going to love this course!!!

    Reply
  252. Kate N. on

    Congratulations to all of you! I love seeing people pursuing their dreams. I just started growing flowers this year and what a joy!

    Reply
  253. Love on

    Bravo to everyone ! Can’t wait to see your growth 🌺🌺🌺

    Reply
  254. Georgia Farmer on

    Congratulations to all of the wonderful winners! You deserve this! I wish you all much happiness and success. Here’s to making your dreams come true!

    Reply
  255. Virginia on

    Congratulations scholarship recipients! May all your flower dreams become reality with the help of this scholarship!

    Thank you for Floret!

    Reply
  256. Andrea Williams on

    Congratulations to this new class! May your journey be a wondrous example of the simple pleasure of helping flowers grow and thrive.

    Reply
  257. Jerri Carter on

    Congratulations to all! Learn well, teach others.

    Reply
  258. Katie Arena on

    Wooooo hoooo go Taj. ( Anastasia ) this is brilliant news. Congratulations to all. 👏 x

    Reply
  259. Mavis on

    Special Congratulations to Winners 2023.

    The exciting journey begins!

    My heartfelt thanks to you Erin & Team Floret always. I’ll be showing you my garden soon🌻

    Reply
  260. Cecilie Coward Schøyen on

    Congratulations to you all! This course is unforgettable and I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did last year :)

    Reply
  261. Marcey Keefer Hutchison on

    Congratulations, everyone! I hope you all have a great time and learn all that your heart desires.

    Reply

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Floret Farm's Small Plot: Big Impact

Small Plot: Big Impact

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