Last month I had the opportunity to assist one of the nation’s top floral designers in a three day workshop. It was a chance of a lifetime opportunity and one I will always cherish. Rene Van Rems was so kind and fun – a gem! Besides Rene, I worked alongside three other floral designers who have been in the business for years. Between the four of them, I was overloaded with knowledge, tips, and tricks that will help my business. It was SO rewarding working as a team… we had free access to the flowers and hard goods at the wholesaler and that was AMAZING as well.
Our task was to create the program backdrop, program products to display, class supplies, and class displays. We worked hard and long hours, but it was a total riot!
Rene travels all over the world and do you know what was in his carry on? – Bling. That’s it. I am sure the airport security loved him-
Lunch Break!!!
Class buckets- we helped assist in two classes Rene taught. I LOVE sharing my knowledge and just ate this up!
Out pulling of whites-
I loved this bouquet of freesia and made sure I worked next to it during one afternoon. The single blooms are sweet and citrus smelling, but the double blooms have a back pepper smell. It was incredible!
Working on a botanical hand-tied bouquet. 
L to R: Cally from Blom; James from Flowers on Main; Me; Jodi from Beaver Drug; Rene van Rems
Ready for our class-
Our backdrop-
Since I was from the area, I was in charge of getting us to dinner in Provo and I was the chauffer. I made sure I took Rene past the Provo City Center temple and we hit up a local restaurant. Rene said that he had been to the San Diego temple open house years ago. He said he loves to drive past the temple there. He knew a lot about mormons and it was a great opportunity to show him how good we can be but also how much fun we can have.
I invited my best friend to come to the final show. We had dinner together and it was just so much fun!
Rene was so sweet and gave these bouquets to me to bring to my girls. He was thoroughly impressed that I had young kids and was willing to volunteer to help him for the week.
