Meet Zuleima Goncalves | Botanical & Floral Artist

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

Hi Zuleima, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Blossom Planners was created in 2013 with the concept of Botanical Weddings and Events. Additionally, I was working in the area of ​​botanical design, event planner, and floral artist for other companies for many years. With the new experience I learned from the other roles and companies, I reopened my business with other categories in the area of botanical design in 2020.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My life had a drastic change in 2013 because my husband and partner of many years was diagnosed with Cancer and it was something I never expected, especially when everything is going well. At the time, our children were attending universities studying their careers and their father, our hero passes away. I had to be strong so that our life could continue on the path that we both had set for them. My children were able to receive their degrees. At this point in time, I had to decide wether I would focus on our business or work for others. My decision was to work for others with the mentality to attain new certifications, learn new practices, and gain more experience. After many years, I refocused on my business and added everything I could that I learned in the area of ​​design.

My passion for what I do and for helping others connect with nature helps inspire me more every day to achieve unique designs in my collections. I love to use naturally found elements in my designs and I include Asian inspired methodology in every arrangement that gives my work a balanced yet meaningful arrangement.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
To begin, I’d plan our days visiting different museums and gardens that are an inspiration for anyone. The first museum would be Vizcaya Museum and Gardens because its history, gardens and its beauty would impress her. Secondly, we would visit the Morikami Museum Japanese Garden, where culture and Japanese style is fascinating and important. To top off the visit to museums, I would love to have my best friend experience teas at My Teabar where they can mix teas per flavors.
Finally, I would love to take her to different areas of the city where art and fun mix, such as Wynnwood Walls, Design District and Las Olas Blvd.

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?
I would like to acknowledge my children for their support in teaching me that nothing is impossible, as long as you have a passion for what you do and that you only have to prepare yourself with studies and experience to achieve the goals you set for yourself.

Website: www.Blossomplannersflowers.com

Instagram: @Blossom_planners_flowers