Today we’d like to introduce you to Mal Strunk.
Hi Mal, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Hi, I’m Mal! Local florist and event designer. Many paths have led me here, to this iteration of my art – my budding floral career! I’ve always been “creative”. Both of my parents are Artists in their own way and growing up they showed me that I could create anything I dreamed up. They helped me design my childhood bedroom, complete with a custom bunkbed I drew up.
I’ve attempted many mediums and artistic hobbies like painting, macrame, graphic design, murals, typography, and interior design. Some stuck and some I left in the craft closet a long time ago. Each taught me creative lessons and as I’ve tested and found true, creativity is transferable. Flowers were not really on my list of interests. While planning my own wedding with my Mother-in-Law, who was a wedding florist, she let me be a part of the design process and that’s when my flower love started. Getting to comb through pages and pages of different flowers in all their colors and textures, really brought my inner-artist mega amounts of joy, curiosity, and excitement.
Down the road, I found myself deep in a personal “drought”, feeling incredibly depressed and severely anxious. A few hints from the universe (and my mother-in-law) came, saying ‘I needed flowers’. I scoffed like flowers were going to cure this mental fog. Well, for me, they really did. One stormy afternoon, I angrily tossed seeds out in the abandoned garden behind our new home. Two weeks later, those sprouting seedlings melted me. I found that creative spark again.
Fast forward, flowers and plants are now my life and I’m making them my livelihood. I’ve learned so much and still have more to grow. Like my personality, my flower designs are big, loud, colorful, fun, and creative! Beyond the joy I find in creating with flowers, finding a welcoming and loving flower community has meant so much to me. Local Farmers and fellow Florists have taught and supported me so much. I prioritize shopping for local flowers because of the unbeatable quality, longer vase life, and environmental benefits. Plus, pouring back into the Utah Flower community that has poured into me and my art is the least I can do!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Everything I’ve encountered, endured, and grown from has led to here and for that I’m grateful! I have struggled with anxiety, depression, and some physical health issues throughout my life. Some of my darkest days led me to flowers and that has been the biggest blessing, While I still have down days between therapy, my trusted friends/family, and my art, I am balancing the lows better than I used to.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in floral and event design! I create big, bold, colorful creations for special events like weddings, corporate events, fashion shows, photoshoots, and more! I am proud of my unique design style, my commitment to using locally and ethically sourced flowers, and the JOY my designs bring others.
I have found so much healing from creating with flowers and wanted to offer that experience to others. I’ve created “Healing in the Blooms” which are photoshoots and workshops designed to help connect people with nature and their own creative power. Seeing someone’s creativity spark during “Healing in the Blooms” sets my soul on fire!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I have loved learning one-on-one with other Florists by investing in workshops and retreats. With flowers, the best way to learn is by creating! Books that have helped me have been “A Year in Flowers” by Erin Benzakein of Floret Farms, “The Art of Wearable Flowers” by Susan McLeary, and “Color Me Floral” by Kiana Underwood.
Contact Info:
- Website: zealousdesignshop.com
- Instagram: @malthecreative
Image Credits
Taylor Elaine, Cowgirl camera and DJ Photography
