Hello readers! My name is Jordana, and I am Sweet Woodruff’s head designer & manager. Nature has always played a huge part in my life, and my identity for that matter. My parents tell me that growing up I was sort of a wanderer. I would explore the forest and little streams beside my house, rummage through my grandfathers gardens, and pretty much touch and play with any animal that crossed my path. 23 years in, and not much has changed.
I first started working with flowers when I was around 15, and have never gone more than a couple months without being around them. I worked at a flower shop & garden center all throughout high school, and when I moved to Toronto for University, I worked part time at another flower shop for a couple more years. After graduating with an Urban Planning degree, I did some traveling, worked and volunteered for a few non-profit organizations, and then decided I wanted to use my hands again.
I started at Sweet Woodruff in the fall of 2012, and have loved it since day one. Sweet Woodruff is unlike any job. It has been a place for me to go and clear my head when everything has felt overwhelming. Being able to channel my energies into creating things has done more good for me emotionally and physically, than any desk job could ever.
When I first met Lisa, I was blown away by her incredibly refreshing and beautiful aesthetic. Not to mention, how humble and sweet she was. She has helped me grow even more into a designer, guiding and encouraging me along the way. I feel incredibly lucky to have found a boss who is also a great teacher, and most importantly, an amazing friend.
We've had many late nights and countless early mornings, but it’s never really felt like ‘’work.’’ Most of the time it feels like I’m hanging out with my friends making beautiful things, listening to good music and talking about life. I've had the pleasure of working with many talented and aspiring florists thus far, and it’s always exciting to have a new energy in the shop.
I love beauty, in all its quirky and non-traditional forms. I love people and animals, and try and surround myself with tons of living things. Music and art also play a huge part in my life, as I’m sure it does for most creative types. I am a mom, to a 1.5-year-old kitten named Jax! He is the sweetest, most loving creature I've ever been around. I pretty much talk about him 24/7.
So, if you’re ever in the neighbourhood, stop by the shop and don’t hesitate to come up and say hello! We can chat about plants, flowers, and cats. I don’t know much more than that ;)
- Jordana
Photos by Vicky Starz
