California Blooming
San Diego, you were an absolute dream! Nestled among rolling hills and vineyard views, Monserate Winery set the scene for a day of connection, creativity, and all things floral during the Intrigue Across America Tour. The warm California sun, soft breezes, and scenic backdrop gave us space to slow down and fully immerse in the design experience. Students gathered from near and far to explore floral techniques, get inspired, and create side by side in a setting that felt as refreshing as it was inspiring. From group installations to quiet one-on-one coaching with Sarah, the energy was focused, fun, and full of heart. San Diego showed up—and we’re still smiling about it.
Day 1 - Social Media for Luxury Florists & Big Mistakes
Day One in San Diego brought together a dynamic group of floral artists, ready to grow, connect, and take their businesses to the next level. With the vineyards of Monserate Winery as our backdrop and the California sun shining down, the energy was calm, focused, and full of possibility. Attendees arrived eager to dive into strategy, kicking off the day with a powerful business session led by Sarah. From building brand presence on social media to creating content that attracts luxury clients, every topic sparked new ideas and fresh motivation.
After a relaxed lunch the conversation shifted to the real stories behind the success—setbacks, pivots, and the lessons that make all the difference. Sarah shared openly, and the group responded with thoughtful reflection, encouragement, and vulnerability.
There was something truly special about gathering in this scenic space—where ideas flowed as freely as the wine, and where each attendee left with renewed clarity and community. San Diego, you were something to savor!
Day 2 - Luxury Floral Installation Masterclass
As creativity bloomed, our students didn’t just witness the beauty around them—they became part of it! Surrounded by the lush greenery of Monserate Winery, they designed breathtaking luxury floral installations infused with soft pastels, warm taupes, and an abundance of trailing vines. Under the golden California sun, each arrangement felt effortlessly organic, as if the blooms had always belonged in this serene, vineyard setting. With every petal placed and every stem styled, the space transformed into a floral masterpiece—an elegant, nature-inspired celebration of artistry and design.
Our first installation of the day was a breathtaking showcase of nature’s elegance, transforming the grand double staircase of Monserate Winery into a seamless extension of the lush landscape. 🍃🌿 Green vines and delicate foliage climbed effortlessly up the stone facade, weaving their way around railings and archways, while soft accents of monofloral blooms in taupe, ivory, and muted pastels brought a refined, organic beauty to the scene. As the florals cascaded down toward the reception table below, the entire setting felt as if it had bloomed naturally into place—effortless, airy, and perfectly in harmony with the winery’s sun-drenched charm.
Our second installation was a stunning showcase of effortless elegance. A beautifully set long table stretched beneath the open sky, draped in patterned linens that added depth and sophistication to the scene. Down the center, a flowing garden of pastel blooms created a lush, organic tablescape, weaving together soft hues of blush, ivory, and taupe with delicate greenery. The arrangements felt natural yet refined, perfectly complementing the serene winery setting. With the warm California breeze and vineyard views in the background, this tablescape became more than just a design—it was an experience, inviting guests to dine surrounded by beauty in every direction.
Our third and final installation was a breathtaking ceremony setting, perfectly in tune with the natural beauty of Monserate Winery. Nestled in front of a cascading waterfall, lush mounds of florals created a stunning backdrop that felt as though it had grown organically from the landscape. Soft pastels, warm taupes, and delicate greenery blended seamlessly with the surroundings, enhancing the serene and romantic atmosphere. The aisle, lined with similar floral clusters, created a pathway of blooms leading to this picturesque moment. With the sound of water flowing in the background and the California sunshine casting a golden glow, this setting was nothing short of enchanting—a true celebration of nature and design in perfect harmony.
After day 2 wrapped, the Styled Shoots Across America photographers came in to photograph all of the beautiful florals and decor, along with the help of stunning models. Attendees of the workshops get full access to all professional photos once galleries are completed, which means hands were filled with flowers, minds with inspiration, and portfolios with photos!
Shipping Lists & Pricing
If you are wondering what flowers and products we used to create the large centerpieces at the San Diego tour stop, we're here to spill all the details.
Flowers: Flowers came from ours sponsor, wholesaler and flower friends over at Jetfresh Flowers.
Floral Software: We determined our recipes, flower counts, and pricing using Details Flowers floral software. Full recipe and pricing for the gorgeous installation can be found HERE.
Supplies/Hardgoods: Our friends at Oasis provided a our floral supplies and Nuage provided our linens.
Creative Partners
Photography by @alainarenephoto | Host: @styledshootsacrossamerica | Planning: @heatherbengeofficial & @alexiawoolumssaa | Assistant Planners: @nicolelouise.coutureevents @akbrides | Venue: @monserateweddings @monseratewinery | Flowers: @intrigueteaches Workshop led by @intrigue_designs | Local Floral Support: @simplyadinafloral | Software Support: @detailsflowers | Wholesale Flowers: @jetfreshflowers | Supplies: @oasisfloralproductsnamerica
Linens: @nuagedesignsinc | Tabletop Rentals: @hostesshaven | Makeup: @tamibernardmakeup
Hair: Sarah Parker | Stationery: @rsvp_love | Signage: @lynnguisticdesigns | Cake: @art_with_flavor
Gowns: @pronovias | Men's Wear: @friartux | Jewelry: @latelier.tsubomi | Shoes: @somethingbleu_
Coffee Cart: @romacoffeecollective | Styling Mats: @theflatlaysstyler | Ring Boxes: @lovelyringboxes
Models: @modelcouplesd @solovely_mrswallis @iknowwallis @eva_handojo | @theloverstraveldiary
And Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: