Owner Joellen Maker Puts Down Roots With New Zionsville Floral Shop

Writer: Julie Young
Photographer: Brandy Hornback

Joellen Maker says she’s had an appreciation for floral design ever since she was “knee-high to a grasshopper.”

“As a child, I was raised to believe that God was responsible for every living thing, and I’ve always considered flowers to be among His special works of art,” she says.

At From Bud to Blooms, Maker takes a fearless approach to her floral arrangements. Not only does she seek out the freshest and most fragrant varieties, but she also strives to showcase those blooms in both formal and casual settings.

“Anything goes where flowers are concerned,” she says. “I can make a corsage for a dance, a centerpiece for a wedding or a dignified funeral arrangement to show your respects. No matter what the occasion, we can find a way show off your personal style.”

Maker’s career in flowers began in 1989 when, as an associate for Marsh Supermarkets, she was asked to help out the floral department during the Valentine’s Day rush. She says she liked working with flowers so much, she asked her managers for a permanent position within the department. Two years later she got one and, over the next 25 years, she honed her talent and eventually became Floral Manager of the Year.

When Marsh closed its doors in 2017, Maker decided to open her own floral shop. She was able to purchase some coolers from her former employer as well as other products and supplies that she needed. She then found the perfect Poplar Street Storefront and secured the phone number of the former Zionsville Flower Company.

“Our grand opening was on August 23 of last year, and we had the Zionsville Chamber come out to do a little ribbon cutting,” Maker says. “It was very nice and so far, the response from the community has been good.”

Not only are Zionsville residents pleased to have Maker nearby, but many of her former Marsh customers also have been thrilled to discover that she is still in the business and ready to help make their special event or occasion even more extraordinary.

“At a local grocery store, you might get a bouquet that has been put together a week in advance, but I do not sell the everyday bouquet,” Maker says. “I handpick my flowers from farms and wholesalers and create arrangements that will last for months rather than a few weeks.”

It’s that attention to detail and personalization that her customers appreciate and has them coming back for more, whether that might be a collection of sunflowers in an Arm & Hammer baking soda box, a country spray arranged in a cowboy boot or some modern flowers captured in an antique store find.

“I like to put my own spin on things and people seem to like that,” Maker says. “Although it is a lot of work and there is always something new to learn, I enjoy being part of the Zionsville community and meeting customers who turn into friends.

From Bud to Blooms is located at 40 E. Poplar Street. Give them a call at 317-979-8776 or visit them online at frombudtoblooms.com.

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