Life & Work with Patty Carlson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Patty Carlson. 

Hi Patty, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Better late than never! I should be thinking about retirement, but all I can think about is how my lifelong dream has finally become my reality.

Party in a Vase didn’t happen to bloom by chance, it was intentional and I had a vision of being surrounded by beautiful blooms while creating unique arrangements. I have a home-based studio and sell at local farmers’ markets on the weekends. I design ready-made fresh bouquets each week. Three years later at the farmers market, I still create unique flower bouquets, offer artificial pieces, seasonal arrangements including succulent pumpkins and hand-made fresh Christmas wreaths as well as book private events and workshops. I’m not your typical florist. I’m always trying new techniques and still defining my style, but every piece I design is thoughtfully curated with the freshest blooms of the season. Last, but not least, I’m thrilled to offer wedding flowers for the most discriminating bride! And the latest trend in bridal flowers for me is The Bridal Workshop where the bridal party designs their own bouquets!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I was just beginning to gain momentum and had opportunities popping up when the pandemic hit. During this time, I invested in myself and took floral education classes with a highly known Floral School, practiced new techniques, and added a new line of artificial products to my offerings. I also spent time working on a new website so customers could order at any time, and have an additional place outside of social media to be found and showcase my work.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I grew up in a small town and was very involved in anything that let my creative sideshow. As a child and still to this day, I enjoy crafting and cooking and creating; my mom said “mainly making messes”. After getting married, moving my young family cross country I found myself a career path that I enjoyed, but didn’t necessarily feed my soul. I was really concentrating on my 3 children. Real Estate, mortgage lending, and construction was the backbone of my work history. Doesn’t lend much to the creating side and I finally figured that out when my oldest daughter knew I had a love for flowers and pushed me to follow my passions. So here I am loving every second, especially the impact I feel from my customers. Knowing my hard work can bring happiness and joy to others is just the icing on the cake! I also make sure no flowers go to waste with my Sponsor a Senior Bouquet campaign.  This campaign is one of the ways I like to bring joy to local seniors and my customers love to be able to participate as we give back to the community.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love to collaborate with other small business owners. I have done giveaways, held events, and made partnerships with local owners. Some business types I’ve partnered with are photographers, candle makers, bakeries, coffee shops, retailers, wedding venues, and caterers to name a few. This area is growing for me and I am starting to book repeat events. The best way to get a response to collaborate is email or DM on Instagram.

Contact Info:

• Email: partyinavase@gmail.com
• Website: https://partyinavase.com
• Instagram: @partyinavase

Image Credits
@bepeachie
@theplantpoweredparent
@shellybeckphotography