In this installment of our monthly graduate series we’re highlighting Melanie. Melanie’s story is a great example of how diverse our industry is and how versatile the world of plants is. Make sure to check back often to learn about a different graduate, as we will be showcasing a new one every month. We’ll be sharing the full inside look here on our website!
Say Hello to Melanie Ripa, Class of 2004!
Lush Florals, Owner/ Lead designer
” It took a few years for my Floral business to become as profitable as my full time job was. But it was the best challenge I ever took on. “
Q: Can you provide a brief description of what your current work entails and what aspect of your job you are most passionate about and why?
A: Lush Florals is a wedding and event floral company. We specialize in artisanal bouquets, centerpieces and floral installations within the Niagara region.
“I am most passionate about my bouquet creation. They contain the best blooms, sometimes unexpected elements and allow the most creativity. “
Q: How would you describe your experience entering the industry after graduation?
A: My floral design experience came from another part time program outside of NPC. I will say that my plant knowledge leaving the school was the biggest asset to my future career. It gave me other elements to introduce into my craft that other florists didn’t work with. I also know that the leadership experience I left with was huge and gave me the strength to eventually start my own business.
Q: What challenges have you faced and overcome in your career after graduation?
A: I became a gardener after grad which was a fantastic job but I really wanted to pursue floral design so I would say making that jump of leaving a full time gardener position was a huge challenge (especially with a very young child). It took a few years for my Floral business to become as profitable as my full time job was. But it was the best challenge I ever took on.
Q: What is a fond memory from your days at the gardens?
” …A feeling of belonging to that place. “
A: When I visit the Botanical gardens now, this peace comes over me that I cannot explain. There are so many warm memories that just walking those grounds, especially right before dusk just brings me right back (after working a job after school that was the time of the day I could relax in the gardens). Wandering around the residence and remembering being there makes me so happy. I can almost hear my classmates and I am 21 again. So I guess my fond memories have become a feeling more than any one event. A feeling of belonging to that place.
Thank you Melanie for this very insightful look into your school past and career journey!
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