Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Johnson.
Hi Katrina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Flowers have long been a passion of mine. An artist from birth, I have dabbled in anything creative I could find: painting, pottery, crafting, and, eventually, flowers. Around the age of 20, I began working in the wedding industry, leading me to become an event planner. That very quickly made me realize I also wanted to work with flowers. As a (very) young woman in the event industry, I knew I wanted to do something that would set me apart. I traveled to one of my favorite cities to study floral design with talented people. I was trained in European floral design in Paris, France, and it opened my heart to a whole new world. For the next 8 years, I worked out of an intimate event venue, mainly focusing on events of 150 guests or less. Over those 8 years, I did hundreds of events and loved connecting with my clients. In 2012, I met my husband and quickly fell in love. I decided to follow my heart and move with him as he received promotions in his career. I continued to do events for family and friends (and my wedding), which helped keep my creativity strong. I was unsure whether or not I would ever officially return to the event industry, but I kept the thought in the back of my mind. In 2021, we moved back to Jacksonville after 8 years away and decided that this is where we belong. Last year, I took on a rather large wedding for a dear friend. At that moment, as I was setting up her wedding, I realized I was ready to get back into the magical world of flowers- officially. At first, it seemed overwhelming because so much had changed while I was away. Venues have closed, and new ones opened. Vendors I loved working with have left the industry, and new ones have entered. It all seemed like a lot to learn and connect to, but one thing didn’t change at all: the flowers. The way I feel when I am designing a bouquet that will be ever so present as a couple takes their vows. The way I feel is when I step back with my eyes closed and then open them to take in the entire space after I’ve finished decorating. The look my client gives me when they see it all for the first time. Those things are exactly what I missed while I was away, and they are what I’m looking forward to most as I build this new business. To me, there is magic about taking something so beautifully created by nature and making it a part of a special event in someone’s life.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road? If not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It all seems funny now, 20 years later. My age is the biggest obstacle I have ever faced in this industry. When I started working in the event industry and became a solo floral artist, people constantly had preconceived notions that someone my age didn’t have the experience or knowledge to succeed. They often second-guessed themselves before hiring me- even though my work spoke for itself. After returning from Paris, where I attended floral school, people started to look at me differently, and my age seemed to be a factor no longer. From then on, I had the confidence that clients no longer worried about my age or what they considered inexperience.
Thanks. What else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
With my business, Magic in Bloom, I strive to show artful expression through flowers. My goal with every client is to bring the magic of flowers to their event in a way that reflects the day’s style, setting, and ambiance. I typically stay with smaller events, 150 guests or less, and love to do all types: weddings and receptions, bridal and baby showers, birthday parties, and more. I love to use texture in my designs to create dimension with a mixture of blooms in varying sizes and colors. As an artist, I use my knowledge of color palettes, visual appeal, and unique creativity to bring a client’s vision to life.
Before we go, can you tell us how people can work with, collaborate with, or support you?
I love collaborating with other creative individuals in the event industry and life. If you are searching for a floral artist for an upcoming event, please visit my website. If you would like to support a local artist born and raised in Jacksonville, follow, like, and share are three of my favorite words. Follow me on Instagram, like and comment on posts, and share when you can.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.magicinbloomjax.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/magic.in.bloom
