Three and a half years ago, I opened Modern Day Floral in downtown Grand Rapids. My vision for the business was a quaint, urban boutique where customers would come in to chat, sip coffee and shop. I wanted my puppy Jack to come to work with me and enjoy the carefree attitude of the “boutique life”. I envisioned a boutique that made you feel like you were shopping in downtown Birmingham, or better yet, a swanky little neighborhood in Chicago… unique and artistic floral designs and the “go-to” place for gifts and accessories.
Over the past few years, things have drastically changed from my original vision. We still had the cute boutique with great florals and unique gifts, however we started servicing another need in Grand Rapids… Weddings and Special Events. And boy, did that take off in a way I never could have imagined. My assistant Erin often teases me about how far removed Modern Day Floral is from my original business plan. I couldn’t have written a greater plan and certainly not without the help of a supportive family, unbelievable customers, an incredible staff and a deep love for this business.
In the spring of 2009, I opened the event design division of Modern Day Floral. A Modern Event was formed in an effort to accommodate the growing need to service Grand Rapids and Michigan brides along with event planners, hotel event coordinators, caterers and special event clients. Through the education and offerings of specialty rental of china, couture linens, chiavari chairs, soft seating in addition to a host of services that will help simplify the planning process. I’m proud to work alongside a talented group of industry experts who bring their passion and expertise beautifully to the center; Jodi Bos of In Any Event, Ben and Laura Harrison of Harrison Studio and Barb Hoak of Sweet Cake Design.
A little sneak peak into my consultation room at the warehouse and of course, I couldn’t forget Jack!
In the short time we have been downtown, we have outgrown our retail space in the Ledyard Building. I’m excited to announce that coming in late summer, we will open a state of the art floral and event design center which will combine both our retail and production under one roof.
This past week, you may have heard the news about the development just west of downtown Grand Rapids. Israels will be moving their clearance center into Klingman’s and will be transforming the space north of the John Widdicomb building into a state of the art design center. We are proud to announce that we will be the first to move into this new design mecca!! The build out begins in a few short weeks and we are so excited to take our business to the next level. Thank you for all your support and we couldn’t have done it without you!
by jenn
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