Hi, I’m Amanda – the heart behind Fleur Union and a lifelong flower lover. I grew up in a charming country side village in France. As a child, I was curious, sensitive, and endlessly fascinated by nature. I used to pick wildflowers on my way home from school and press them between books to “keep their magic.” My bedroom walls were covered with drawings of peonies, lilies, and roses. I think even then, flowers felt like old friends.
Why I Chose to Be a Florist
It wasn’t a grand plan at first. Just a deep, growing passion. I remember helping decorate my cousin’s wedding when I was 16. My job was simple: arrange centerpieces. But I fell in love with the process, the colors, the textures, the emotion. I saw how flowers spoke when words fell short. That day, I told my mom, “This is what I want to do.”.
My Training & First Steps
I studied floral design at a local community college and then enrolled in a botanical arts course at the nearest city. The hands-on experience was incredible. Early mornings at flower markets, long afternoons learning the names (and Latin names!) of every bloom, and even evenings spent practicing arrangements in my tiny apartment. My first job was at a small flower shop owned by one of my freidn’s mother. I still remember the thrill of my first solo bouquet for a customer, sunflowers, eucalyptus, and tiny chamomile sprigs. She cried when she saw it. That’s when I knew I was in the right place.
Opening My Own Shop
In 2012, with trembling hands and a hopeful heart, I opened my own florist boutique. It was small, just me, a few shelves, and buckets of fresh flowers. The early days were rough. I once accidentally booked two weddings on the same day (lesson learned!). But through word of mouth and hard work, my little shop began to grow. Now, I specialize in wedding florals, event decorationet garden-inspired designs. I’ve had the honor of working on over 200 weddings, each one unique, each one filled with emotion, story, and blooms chosen with care.
Pourquoi Fleur Union?
This blog is where I share what I’ve learned and continue to learn through a life among flowers. From the meaning behind blooms, to tips for beginner gardeners, wedding flower ideas, and a touch of floral-inspired fashion… it’s all here. I created Fleur Union as a space where flower lovers, brides, and dreamers can find inspiration and connection.
Life Today
Today, I balance shop life with writing, photography, and long walks through my garden (my cat, Tulip, usually follows). I still get excited when a new flower variety comes in, and I still cry a little when I see a bride holding her bouquet for the first time. Thank you for visiting Fleur Union. Whether you’re planning a wedding, starting a garden, or simply love flowers as much as I do, I hope you find something here that makes you smile. With petals & love, Amanda