Meet McKenna | Sustainable Florist

We had the good fortune of connecting with McKenna and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi McKenna, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing outsiders are unaware of is how unsustainable the flower industry is. The use of pesticides and herbicides compromise the health of the farmers, soil and pollinators.. Not to mention, the florist or consumer who is actively designing with them. Blooms are often dyed with synthetic colors, sprayed with paint/preservatives and bleached. Essentially altering them from something that is compostable into something that is trash. Designers also integrate unsustainable design practices by using single use plastic floral foam, ribbons, cellophane etc.. To me, that is just irresponsible and/or uninformed when there are so many green alternatives. We just have to get creative! Lastly, only a small percentage of flowers used in America are actually grown in America. Often, flowers are flown in from other countries and can sit for weeks without being in water. By the time these flowers get to the consumer, they are far from “fresh.”

I strive to continue my own education on the topics mentioned above as well as on the use of invasive species that are not native to the land and the threat they pose for those ecosystems. I seek to educate my clients on flowers that are in season, sustainably grown, and unaltered. It’s important to me as a designer to build my work around them while supporting local Colorado farmers and sourcing 100% American grown. Florists, we can do this!

What should our readers know about your business?
I am most proud of the passion, education, work and time I have put in to understand my chosen industry. I worked for 5 years in a full service shop with people who supported me not only in my design abilities, but all other aspects of my life. I learned so much about the operations and ways of the floral industry during that time. As much as I remember it to be a positive experience, I always found myself unearthing darker truths of the trade. When my husband and I moved to Colorado, I knew I wanted to take my love for design into my own hands and work as a sustainable florist. I wanted my business to align with my ethos. It is not always easy to say no to clients who may still want bleached, dyed or invasive flowers. Although, I think what sets my business apart is the fact that I do. More and more clients are becoming aware of the importance of locally grown and sustainable flowers and that makes me SO excited. My biggest hope is to educate and start a conversation around the current climate of the floral industry and inspire others to do the same!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m new to Colorado Springs as of October 2021 but I always seem to find myself downtown or in Old Colorado City. Manitou Springs is also nearby and has a lot of native history and art. I love checking out galleries and shops who sell local and handmade goods in both Old Colorado City and Manitou

Dining- The Burrowing Owl, Wild Goose Meeting House, Four by Brother Luck, The Rabbit Hole

Drinks- Atmosphere Gastro Pub, Alchemy, Dos Santos

Coffee- Good Neighbors Meeting House, Switchback, Carnelian

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my friends, family and co workers for believing in me and my dreams.

The farmers and designers who inspire and educate me.

The Colorado wedding and floral industry’s for offering AMAZING locally grown flowers, connections and support.

Website: www.fayeflowerstudio.com

Instagram: @fayeflowerstudio

Facebook: Faye Flower Studio