Fifteen years ago, I embarked on a teaching journey that I never anticipated. My initial ambition was to teach animal science, but fate had different plans for me. My first ag teaching position unexpectedly included a horticulture class, a subject I had little experience with. I was terrified, especially since I had never taught floral design before. My student teaching experience had been dreadful, and I swore I’d never teach again. Yet, here I was, facing a new challenge.
Starting in December, a notoriously difficult time to begin teaching, I found myself amidst the chaos of the school year. I was tasked with teaching a curriculum that was foreign to me. My early attempts were rudimentary, involving activities like gluing sticks together and creating noodle crafts—hardly the essence of floral design. It felt like I was on a carousel, spinning around without direction, unsure of how to stop and find my way.
Desperation drove me to seek inspiration wherever I could find it. I spent countless nights learning what I needed to teach the following day. Thankfully, I discovered J Schwanke and his “Fun with Flowers and J” YouTube channel. J became my virtual mentor, teaching me the basics that I would pass on to my students from January to May. With each new video, it felt like I was grabbing the brass ring on the carousel, inching closer to confidence.
A turning point came when I stumbled upon the Texas State Floral Association (TSFA) while researching online. I found a scholarship opportunity for teachers to attend design classes. I eagerly applied and was thrilled to receive it. Attending these workshops was both challenging and enlightening. I owe a great deal to the florists who patiently taught me the fundamentals of floral design. Their guidance ignited a passion within me that I never knew existed. It was as if the carousel had slowed down, allowing me to find my footing.
Armed with new knowledge, I returned to my classroom determined to build a comprehensive curriculum from scratch. My efforts paid off when my students participated in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Horticulture Competition. Witnessing their success, I realized I was on the right path and discovered a passion for floral design that I hadn’t anticipated. The carousel ride was becoming more enjoyable, and I was beginning to savor each turn.
Eager to grow further, I pursued my Texas Master Florist Accreditation through TSFA. Attending classes at the Benz School of Floral Design and earning my accreditation solidified my expertise. This accomplishment allowed me to enhance my teaching and share my love for floral design with my students. The ride had taken me to new heights, and I was ready for more.
I’ve been blessed to have students who have been incredibly successful in the floral world and in various competitions. Seeing their passion for horticulture and floral culture bloom has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Their achievements inspire me to be the best teacher I can be. Each student’s success felt like another joyful spin on the carousel, adding to the excitement of the journey.
In all reality, when you work with flowers, you’re not just creating designs with plant materials; you’re dealing with emotions. Giving someone a flower can brighten their day in ways you might never imagine. One of the lessons I emphasize to my students is the power of a simple gesture: if you’re having a bad day, make a flower arrangement and give it to someone. The smile you receive in return can transform your day. It’s truly amazing how flowers can impact human emotions.
Today, I create curriculum for fellow teachers, offering the support that was scarce when I began. I am committed to helping other ag teachers, ensuring they have access to the resources I once lacked. My journey from uncertainty to passion has been a testament to the belief that anything worth having is worth working for.
Floral design offers a unique avenue for students to engage in agriculture without the necessity of animal involvement. Through FFA and horticulture, students can explore their creativity and develop a love for flowers. My goal is to foster an inclusive environment where students and teachers alike feel empowered to ask questions and embrace their creativity.
Sharing my love for flowers and the journey that brought me here is a privilege. Like a carousel ride, it has had its ups and downs, but each turn has brought me closer to where I am meant to be. I hope to inspire others to find their passion and create a thriving community of floral design enthusiasts.
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