Why Local Flowers?

When I began my farming journey, I had one simple goal: to make the world a better place.

But what does that even look like? 

To truly answer that question, let’s go back in time—to Rome, Italy, in 1986.
It wasn’t about flowers then, but about resisting a global shift toward convenience: fast food. The Slow Food Movement, as it came to be known, was a protest against the cultural erasure that came with industrialized eating. It was a stand for tradition, and a defense of the right to healthy, local, and culturally meaningful food.

What does this have to do with flowers? 

Well, despite the good intentions of the Slow Food Movement, the fast-and-cheap mindset kept growing. Here in the U.S., around 60% of our fruit and up to 80% of our seafood is imported. Why? Because its cheaper to grow it in other places. 

And food isn’t the only thing that’s been industrialized. A staggering 80% of the flowers sold in the U.S. come from abroad—mostly from countries like Colombia and Ecuador. That bouquet on your kitchen table, the blooms at your best friend’s wedding, even the cheerful stems at Trader Joe’s likely made a long journey before landing in your hands. (Take a look at the sticker next time—you’ll see what I mean.)

But just like Italy realized decades ago, this system disconnects us—from our land, our local economies, and from the people growing the things we cherish. In response, the Slow Flower Movement was born. We realized, that if we care about who grows our food, why not our flowers too? It is the next step in growing our awareness and growing a deeper connection to the things we consume.

Okay, but how do local flowers actually make the world a better place?

Whether it’s the Slow Food Movement or the Slow Flower Movement, the heart of it all is simple: slowing down, paying attention, and reconnecting—with our choices, our land, and the people who grow the things we love.

And honestly? The benefits of looking local are kind of amazing.

Most small-scale farmers are out here using practices like crop rotation, permaculture, and organic methods—not just because it sounds good, but because it works. Healthier soil, happy bugs, thriving biodiversity. Nature approved!

When you buy locally, you're not just picking up flowers or veggies—you’re cheering on your neighbors, supporting your local economy, and keeping traditions alive.

And flowers? They’re magic.
I see it every time I hand someone a bouquet or share a photo online. Flowers make people light up. They’re fragrant messengers of joy - a reminder that beauty still exists and we're still connected to the wild world around us. 

And really, couldn't we all use a little of that?

What do you think- are you sold? Can growing flowers make the world a better place?