Leila Strong:

Farmer Turned Florist

What began as a love for flowers and the natural world as a child turned into a full blown, passionate calling as an adult. Tenderheart Botanicals was created in 2019 on $400, a single palette of seeds, and a big dream. I was quickly initiated into the fast paced, seasonal world of farming where I was schooled in the art of perseverance, trial and error, and adaptability. During my years as a farmer I learned to love the pace of the seasons, following its ebb and flow with reverence and respect. I learned to become eager for the beauty of each season and its unique offerings. The first snowdrops and hellebore in winter, poking their solemn heads from the frosty ground. The flash of color in the daffodils unfurling in spring. The riotous joy of enormous, fluffy dahlias in summer. And the crunchy leaves of fall turning the world to amber and gold.

Becoming a Floral Designer

It wasn't long before I wanted to do more than grow flowers - I wanted to create with them too and so found my next great love. I began floral designing in 2020 and eventually transitioned into full time design in 2021. Though I no longer farm, I've held onto my love for seasonality and instill it in my work today. I design with the freshest seasonal product and source locally from here in Washington or more broadly from North America. I am committed to using the most sustainable and fresh product possible.