Years ago I had a series here on the blog that I called “Wedding Vendor Wednesday,” where I would highlight local wedding pros throughout Southern California who’s work I admired. I honestly loved doing these interviews, but life got in the way and over time, the whole project fell by the wayside.
Recently, I attended Wedding MBA (an educational conference for wedding professionals) in Las Vegas and it inspired me to refresh the series and bring it back! I’m so excited to share this with you and I hope you find it to be a helpful resource on your wedding planning journey.
Today, I’m honored to introduce Gini Ortega, the owner and floral expert behind Serenade of Flowers. We recently worked together on an intimate wedding in Huntington Beach and I was instantly taken with her beautiful floral arrangements! Serenade of Flowers is a professional, full-service floral design company based out of Orange County, CA that services a variety of events. Weddings, of course, are Gini’s favorite! 
Take it away Gini! Tell us a little about yourself. What are your interests?
I’m a woman of varied interests. Flowers make me smile and feel good. It’s my happy place. I enjoy the challenge of mixing color and texture and making it blend seamlessly with its environment.
I’m also a budding photographer who likes to take pictures of colorful street art; interesting textures; architecture from the 20’s/30’s; as well as old churches, to name a few. I travel internationally extensively and enjoy immersing myself in colorful cultures and foods. Even here in Los Angeles, I will drive miles or take a solo train ride to experience the newest pop-up or event.
What made you decide to start Serenade of Flowers and how long have you been in business?
It started out as a love for entertaining family and friends. I would organize menu, tablescapes and decor based on themes like Moroccan Nights; Chianti vineyards; and Greek Isles. It was so much fun.
I started taking local floral design classes, then master floral design classes in New York. Then 20 years ago, I opened my business, Serenade of Flowers. I continue to take classes to keep up to date with changing trends.
Tell us a little about your services:
We are a full-service florist. We’ve provided unique floral design and other decor for celebrations big and small, in venues such as the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, Westin South Coast Plaza, Casino San Clemente, and The City Club, Los Angeles. Our work has been featured in Ceremony Magazine and have received consecutive years of Wedding Wire’s Bride’s Choice Award.
Customer satisfaction is very important to us. We’re meticulous about understanding our brides’ requirements and meeting or exceeding those needs.
What is your favorite thing about your job, particularly when working at a wedding?
Walking into the Flower Mart in Los Angeles and taking in the cacophony of colors and scents instantly uplifts me. Flowers do that to me and I think, I have the best job in the world! When I work on a wedding, it’s a labor of love for me.
If you could give one piece of advice to a bride, what would it be?
If you are set on having a particular bloom in your bouquet, such as peonies, do some research to find out what time of year those flowers are available. Do this before setting the date for your wedding. We’re lucky here in Southern California because many flowers are available year-round. But many blooms are seasonal. So it’s advisable to do a little research.
Where online can couples find you if they want to know more or hire you?
Website: www.serenadeofflowers.com
Instagram: @serenadeflowers
Email: Gini.ortega@gmail.com
Phone: 714-458-1047
Gini has also been so kind as to also include an awesome promotion for my readers!
For new bookings: 15% off, for signed contracts before 12/31/19 OR 10% off, for contracts signed before 4/30/20
Thank you so much Gini for taking the time out of your schedule for this interview and sharing your passions, both personal and professional, with us! I hope we can work together again very soon!
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