The Business & Pleasure of Flowers Vonda LaFever & Lori Wilson

Episode 239: In this episode, we'll share highlights from an recent webinar session provided and sponsored by Flower Clique. Join Ellie LaFever as she delves into the exciting world of upcoming color palettes in the floral industry. She shares the insights presented by J. Keith White at the 2024 AIFD convention, featuring the American Floral Trends Forecast. Ellie LaFever also imparts valuable knowledge providing an in-depth look at the latest trends and how they apply to a local business. Th...

Episode 238: In this episode, Vonda and Lori explore the impact of different leadership traits on employee retention. They discuss five leadership habits to avoid that can drive employees away and undermine your authority. By self-evaluating and identifying these destructive traits, leaders can course-correct and create a more engaging work environment. Additionally, Vonda and Lori share five positive leadership traits that make employees want to stay for the long haul. By embodying these tra...

Episode 237: In this episode, Vonda shares her unique perspective on the AIFD Symposium Emerge, held in Orlando FL while driving home. Though she didn't attend any of the programs, she was able to personally meet the designers. Vonda had the task of working behind the scenes for 10 days alongside her co-chair and partner in floral, Julie Poeltler, in a well-oiled Flower Workroom.Vonda offers her thoughts on the event, including what went on behind the scenes and the hard work that goes into m...

Episode 236: Vonda and Lori are at AIFD this week, making it the perfect opportunity for YOU to catch up on any podcast episodes you’ve missed! If you need a recommendation, check out Episode 159: “Leadership Lessons: Five Dysfunctions of a Team.” In this episode, the Flower Clique gals give an overview of the book “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by Patrick Lencioni which discusses the pitfalls and challenges a leadership team faces and discuss how these directly relate to a retail floral b...

Episode 235: In this episode, Vonda and Lori share their personal experiences and challenges with energy and brain power at the end of the day. They discuss what a personal productivity curve is and why it's important to understand it in order to maximize your productivity during your most productive time of day.They provide valuable tips and strategies to help you identify your most productive time of day and ways to optimize your productivity during that time. They also share an eye-opening...

In this special extended episode, Vonda and Lori engage in an insightful interview and casual chat with Kate Penn, Executive Vice President/CEO of the Society of American Florists (SAF), and Oscar Fernandez, SAF President and Chairperson of Equiflor/RioRoses. Join us as we explore the exciting programs offered at the upcoming SAF Convention on August 6-9, and gain an understanding of the essence of SAF and the benefits it brings to the floral industry. Additionally, Oscar and Kate prov...