Mark Held didn't originally see himself as a florist. His first arrangement-- a project assigned to him at summer camp as a young boy-- turned out to be poison ivy. But after a successful dance and theater career as a young adult, Mark wanted to continue his creative expression. His partner, Richard David, had just the outlet: a flower shop he was opening up. And he convinced Mark to join him for a bit. At the time, Mark thought it would be a temporary arrangement.
Fast forward a couple decades, and Mark Held is a prominent name in floristry. As a grounded, creative mind, he believes that flowers "breathe life into events" and is always looking forward to the future of his business and clients.
In this episode, Mark shares his perspective on career development, crafting a quality event, and the way he navigates the Hollywood scene as a professional florist.
About Mark
Born in Chicago, Mark Held is the son of a preacher and attended the University of Redlands in California.
Together with Richard David, Mark Held created Mark's Garden, which is a self-described "part retail flower shop and part creative design studio". Mark's team has crafted floral design for the Academy Awards Governors Ball for the past 24 years, plus Television Emmy Awards, Golden Globes Awards, top level civic events and a long list of celebrity weddings including Fergie and Josh Duhamel, Pink, Gwen Stefani, Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, and Adam Sandler, among others.
Mark is also the co-author of a book titled, Fabulous Parties: Food and Flowers for Elegant Entertaining.
Show Highlights:
Links Mentioned in the Show:
Mark's Garden Instagram - @marksgarden
Mark's book - Fabulous Parties: Food and Flowers for Fabulous Entertaining
