Rising Stars: Meet Jess Dotson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jess Dotson. 

Hi Jess, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey to floristry began when I was a little girl. From a very young age, I would behold and treasure the colors, textures, and intricacies of our world. I was provided with the gift of growing up in rural Ohio, surrounded by all the beauty that our four seasons have to offer. 

This planted a seed that eventually blossomed into an interest in floral design that is intuitively inspired by the seasons. 

I primarily work as a wedding florist. It is a delight to me to work with a bride and be able to collaborate & create a floral vision that feels special to the couple and is a reflection of their love and lifestyle while also pulling inspiration from the season we are in, the venue the event is taking place at, and remain true to the modern, airy and playful style of design that I am known for. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey to get to where I am today has been a beautiful but challenging one. Surviving through some intense trauma in my personal life has resulted in living a daily life marked by chronic pain and fatigue. Because of this, every work day has become a profound practice of resilience. 

A motto that I hold to is: if you look for beauty, you will find it. 

I think this is reflected in my work and the passion I pour into every floral offering. 

No matter what, there is joy and beauty to be found, and I want to be a fosterer of that in this world. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in intimate weddings and events. Seasonally available wreaths. Specialty vase arrangements & wrapped bouquets. Floral installations. Florals for styled photography shoots. Commercial floral arrangements. 

I am known most for my work in weddings and events. 

I think I am most proud of the floral installation work I have done. 

Creating a floral landscape on such a large scale is a really challenging and gratifying work. 

I am also really proud of my color palettes, floral and textural combinations in my floral offerings. 

I always want to create something special that hasn’t been done before. 

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was a very introverted kid. I spent the majority of my time exploring outside, especially in the summer. 

I would climb trees, pick black raspberries and play with my pets. 

I was an old soul, even then, and loved old music and vintage clothes. 

Pricing:

• My current minimum for full-scale wedding florals is $2,500.00.

Contact Info:

• Website: jesslaurenflorals.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesslaurenflorals/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jesslaurenflorals

Image Credits
Hannah Anthony Photography
L.A. Photography
Aliyah Grace Burton Photography