We had the good fortune of connecting with Johnny Holiday and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Johnny, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
A couple of Christmases ago I saw a really neat Christmas wreath made of gift bows at a national retailer and thought to myself, “I could make that!” I bought a couple bags of bows and never got around to it. Then the following year at an after Christmas sale, I found some Grinch colored bows on sale that really motivated me to execute the project. The finished product garnered me rave reviews from friends and family, and it inspired me to want to create more. I put my vintage childhood Christmas tree decorations to good use by creating a piece that memorialized those nostalgic ornaments and memories, and I received more accolades. I’ve always loved Christmas and constantly get praise and compliments on my holiday decorating, so I believe this path was inevitable for me. My artistic focus has always been my photography, but suddenly my new undertaking was capturing my attention and getting my creative juices flowing. I then came up with the pseudonym Johnny Holiday for my new design endeavors, a play on my childhood nickname. I started creating wreaths for other holidays and also started creating specific creations for birthdays, weddings, and other events and occasions. I have even put together some custom wreaths for friend’s businesses. I’ve used cars and tools for a mechanic, funky glasses frames for an ophthalmologist, and can customize my design to celebrate almost anything thrown at me.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I apply the same creative aesthetics and style I’ve used in my photography to my wreath making. Many of my designs have a classic, nostalgic, and vintage feel to them. I approach my work as I do fine art and not just as a craft. Wreaths have become very popular, but nothing can compare to a well designed handmade design, as opposed to a store bought cookie cutter one. The colors, materials, and positioning of a creation is everything. And I aim to construct something that can truly be appreciated on different levels.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My South Florida surroundings have always been an inspiration to me and I think Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden would be one of the most beautiful places I would recommend to anyone visiting our area. The breathtaking nature is amazing and each visit is as relaxing and informative as it is invigorating. Any time spent in their striking and spectacular outdoor areas will be certain to be memorable and unforgettable. And after spending some time with nature, I would suggest some great refreshments and eats at The Cheese Course in Pinecrest. Whether it is a great soup, salad, or sandwich, or a cheese course plate and a glass of wine, you can’t go wrong with anything they serve up.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A big shoutout to my friends and family for always egging me on and encouraging my creativity. Their support is what drives me to continue to create. They urge me to continue on my creative path and inspire me to always try and take things to the next level.
Website: etsy.com/shop/JohnnyHolidayWreaths
Instagram: instagram.com/wreathsbyjohnnyholiday
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092714910352&viewas=100000686899395
Image Credits
Jonathan Brooks