Most folks call me Cristi or Crissy, though my birth certificate reads: CristiEllen after both my yiayias’ names translated from Greek.  A little about me — a Lover of The Great Lakes! I studied Human Rights and Women’s Studies in college. My heart is happiest with flowers, antiquing or sharing a new Spotify playlist. My favorite trip was to Japan where I took my first ikebana lesson.

Floral design was always something in my periphery, but I didn’t know how to start. A couple years after college, I was working in event planning at the University of Michigan. A couple blocks away was a small (but mighty!) flower shop. Recognizing my inexperience, I offered my graphic design skills and to sweep the floors during my lunch breaks. After being turned down…I went back a few days later. To my surprise and delight, the owner gave me a shot.

From there, I learned hundreds of flower names, their care, design mechanics, and the nuances of delivery.  Eventually,  I came to work for the shop in a management role and oversaw the events department. Over the years I’ve advanced my skills by taking courses with some of the leading educators in floristry. Working in a brick & mortar shop also brought me into an incredible community of designers, growers, wholesalers, drivers, educators and floor sweepers.