This is a part of our Creative Collaboration series, where we introduce you to our creative partners from all around the Bay Area. Today, we’re introducing you to Valarie Rome-Jessup from A Loves in Bloom.

A Loves in Bloom is a beautiful florist that specializes in weddings, social and corporate events. For over 25 years, A Loves in Bloom has created stunning reception and event decor, including floral design for many longtime clients.

We asked Valarie to tell us about what inspired her to pursue a career in weddings and how she got started in the wedding industry.

I actually sort of fell into the floral industry right out of high school. I have now been in the industry for 32 years. I started in the wholesale floral industry and have been involved in every aspect from wholesale, retail, mass marketing, growing and event specialization. We also grow some of our own flowers!

Valarie shares her favorite part about being involved in a wedding.

My favorite part is handing each bride her bridal bouquet and seeing her smile & joy!

She also spills the beans on the worst thing that’s ever happened at a wedding, plus how she overcame it.

Immediately after 9/11, we had five weddings that weekend and due to the grounding of airplanes, we had to make some serious substitutions as flowers were stuck on runways in Florida. One wedding actually cancelled as too many family members were unable to make their flights.

Valarie tells us what she’d do with a week off of work.

Somewhere tropical! The Holland Flower markets are also on my bucket list.

Valarie is also sharing some advice she likes to give couples planning their wedding.

Figure out your budget and prioritize the things that are most important to you as a couple, whether its food, bar, entertainment, or yes – flowers! And make it the day you want it to be, not your parents, wedding party, etc.

My advice to those working in the industry to just love what you do. It’s so important and how you feel about your job will affect how clients feel about you!