Today we’d like to introduce you to Denae Zoellner.
Hi Denae, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always had a passion for flowers. For years (Before starting The Fancy Florals) I would take grocery store flowers and turn them into funky, vibrant, yet beautiful arrangements. I was always the first to volunteer to do flowers and decor for friends’ events and dinner parties. I’ve always had a green thumb and love spending my spare time outside gardening or indoors working with house plants. For years my friends and family encouraged me to take my passion for floral design to the next level and begin offering design services and delivery options.
In 2020 when the pandemic hit, I had more time at home to start to explore my passion, and I was able to bring “The Fancy Florals” to life. My business continues to grow and evolve from helping and consulting DIY brides to special orders around the Orlando area. We love bringing a little brightness to everyone’s day. Today we now offer wedding and event design and monthly floral subscriptions! The sky is the limit and in the next six months, we will be expanding our services to offer workshops and much more.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think all businesses go through growing pains. I truly woke up and jumped into this business. When I started, I did not have a clear business plan, and I had no expectations but to share my love for flowers. We still experience these growing hurdles but I’m okay with that! It has allowed me to really shape my business and better understand the clients I wish to work with. I am a total “people person” I do this for the love of flowers but equally as important to me is my connection with my clients! I love getting to know my clients and truly being a part of the design experience along with them. So “no”, the road hasn’t been smooth, and it will continue to have its bumps, but I am here for the bumpy ride.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Simply put, I’m a freelance florist. That means I do a little bit of everything! I love textures, and in most of my arrangements, you’ll see a mixture of fresh florals along with dried and preserved florals. I’m known for bright pops of color to mix with those textures and getting creative while onsite for event set-ups. I also provide DIY services for brides that have a passion for art and design but need a little extra help on their wedding day!
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve been able to form with other small business owners. Sometimes we let our personal goals get in the way of creating an inclusive culture as small business owners. I’ve been blessed to connect with some amazing small businesses and together we will all be so much stronger. It’s great to have someone to reach out to when you are starting out.
I think my personality sets me apart from others. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. I am a people person. My adaptability to situations and scenarios makes it fun to work with me on projects. I’m great at flying by the seat of my pants and typically carry a “no sweat” attitude. I’m here to enjoy the ride, learn from others and spread a little joy!… Oh and spice things up with some beautiful flowers.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I hated the color Pink!!!! This is hilarious because if you see my arrangements, they are full of pink hues! I now love the color pink, funny how things change! I was a middle child and ultra independent. A big “do it myself” personality. You could find me outside or playing in a creek (I’m a Georgia girl) so being outside was my happy place. I loved to garden.
I was always the loudest in the group! This helped because I was a competitive dancer and cheerleader for well over 15 years… so the loud voice came in handy! I’ve always had a love for the outdoors, I may have been rock climbing in the Tennessee mountains or hiking in the Carolinas, but most of my younger years were spent outdoors in with me in some type of physical activity.
Contact Info:
- Email: order@thefancyflorals.com
- Website: www.afancyflower.com
- Instagram: thefancyflorals
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thefancyflorals/
Image Credits
Crystal Shaw Co. Photography Grateful Soul Photography Mae Murphy Photography Sabina Procacci Photography
