My connection to flowers began long before my career in floral design. My Korean given name, Young Ae (which I carry as my middle name), traditionally translates to "Lovable Flower."
It feels like a beautiful example of Nominative Determinism: the idea that people are subconsciously drawn to pursuits that reflect their name. My passion for floral design didn't just grow from experience. It is written into who I am.
Born in Korea, I was adopted at four-and-a-half years old and was raised in a small town in Wisconsin. One of my earliest memories is of picking flowers from my mother's garden and arranging them as a little girl. At 16, I landed my first job at a small family-owned floral shop in my hometown.
What started as a first job quickly became a lifelong passion. My journey as a floral designer has taken me from Madison to New York City and eventually to Minneapolis, where I’ve proudly called home for many years.
I've managed a floral shop, co-owned a downtown Minneapolis location, and spent decades curating arrangements for weddings, events, celebrations, and personal gifts.
All of it has led me here, to you. Today, I teach floral design through creative, hands-on workshops that inspire confidence and connection with flowers. Let me help you create something beautiful.
-Nicole
