Meet Vahini Franklin | Wedding planner | Event stylist | Event Florist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vahini Franklin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vahini, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because creativity has always been a fundamental aspect of who I am. Growing up, my father, who had artistic inclinations, couldn’t pursue his passion for drawing due to his mother’s disapproval. However, he always encouraged me to explore my artistic side and embrace my creative abilities.

Initially, I had never imagined myself becoming a wedding planner or a florist. My original plan was to pursue a career in forensic psychology. However, everything changed when I found out that I was pregnant. Despite the change in my plans, I realized that my artistic side was still very much alive within me.

Creating florals and designing events comes naturally to me. I feel like I am in my element when I engage in creative activities. The process of bringing ideas to life and crafting beautiful arrangements brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

Choosing an artistic and creative career allows me to express myself fully and tap into my natural talents. It is incredibly rewarding to see the impact of my creations on people’s lives. As a wedding planner and florist, I have the opportunity to bring beauty and joy to special moments, and I am grateful to have found a career that aligns with my passions and brings me immense satisfaction.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

At the tender age of 23, life took an unexpected turn for me. As a new mother battling postpartum depression, I was desperately seeking a way to connect with my child and find a sense of purpose in my life. Little did I know that my journey would lead me to the vibrant world of wedding floristry, where I would not only discover my creative side but also embark on a path of healing and personal growth.

It was during those challenging months after my first child’s birth that I stumbled upon the idea of floral design. Reflecting on the joy I experienced while assisting a friend with my wedding florals, I decided to explore this newfound passion as a means of coping with my postpartum depression. Armed with determination, I enrolled in the prestigious Toronto Flower School, eager to acquire the necessary skills and tools to build a flourishing flower career.

As I delved deeper into the world of floral arrangements, I realized that this creative pursuit not only brought solace to my own heart but also became a special bonding experience between me and my son. His eyes sparkled with delight as he watched me craft intricate arrangements, shaping our unique relationship and providing us with a shared sense of purpose.

As my expertise in floral design grew, I yearned to expand my business and offer more comprehensive services to couples on their special day. It was then that I took the leap and added wedding planning to my repertoire. The idea of designing weddings and being an integral part of the process filled me with excitement and a desire to bring joy to couples as they embarked on their journey of love and commitment.

Building a successful business in the wedding industry was not without its obstacles. From navigating the intricacies of branding and marketing to immersing myself in the diverse tapestry of religious and cultural customs, I faced countless hurdles along the way. However, my lifelong fascination with different cultures and religions, coupled with my early exposure to different religions, proved to be invaluable in understanding and respecting the unique traditions of each couple I worked with.

Today, I stand proud as a wedding florist and planner, having transformed my personal struggles into a flourishing career that brings beauty, joy, and healing to the lives of others. Through the art of floral design, I have not only found my own path to self-discovery but also witnessed the transformative power of creativity in fostering connections, healing wounds, and celebrating love. My journey serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact that pursuing one’s passion can have on both personal and professional fulfillment.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Arrival in Toronto – Check into a hotel in downtown Toronto.
– Explore the vibrant Kensington Market neighborhood, known for its eclectic shops, street art, and diverse food options.
– Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant like Bar Raval or Pai, known for their delicious cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Toronto
– Start the day with a visit to the iconic CN Tower. Take a ride to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.
– Visit the Royal Ontario Museum, home to a vast collection of art, culture, and natural history exhibits.
– In the evening, head to the Distillery District, a pedestrian-only village with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Day 3: Toronto Islands and Entertainment District
– Take a ferry to the Toronto Islands, a peaceful oasis just off the coast of downtown Toronto. Enjoy a picnic, rent a bike, or relax on the beach.
– Return to the mainland and explore the Entertainment District. Catch a live performance at the Princess of Wales Theatre or enjoy dinner and drinks at one of the many trendy bars and restaurants in the area.

Day 4: Day Trip to Niagara Falls
– Take a day trip to Niagara Falls, located just a short drive from Toronto. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the falls and take a boat tour for an up-close experience.
– Visit the Niagara-on-the-Lake region, known for its wineries and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy wine tastings and explore the charming town.

Day 5: Brooklin, Ontario
– Travel to Brooklin, a small town located east of Toronto.
– Visit the Brooklin Downtown area, which features quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants.
– Explore Luther Vipond Memorial Arena, known for its ice skating rink and community events.
– Enjoy a relaxing evening in one of the local parks, such as Grass Park or Robinson Ridge Park.

Day 6: Toronto Zoo and Departure
– Visit the Toronto Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the world. Explore the various exhibits and get up close with animals from around the globe.
– If time permits, visit the Art Gallery of Ontario, which houses an extensive collection of Canadian and international art.
– Departure from Toronto.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
It’s difficult to mention just a few individuals or entities as there are so many people who have played a significant role in my life. However, I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my family and friends. They have been my constant support system, providing love, encouragement, and guidance throughout my journey. Their unwavering belief in me has been instrumental in shaping who I am today.

Website: Www.vahini.ca

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vahini.ca?igshid=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA==

Image Credits
Kanny films Khrystyna.photo Memories media