Behind The Stems

Hey There! I’m Aniyah Donner!

For starters, as much as I always loved flowers and grew up gardening with my late grandfather, Mr. Donner, floristry wasn’t always on my radar professionally. Didn’t think I had what it takes honestly. I went to school and earned a degree in Fashion & Retail Marketing/Merchandising in Wisconsin. I pursued journalism in Chicago. Had high hopes of becoming a writer, having my own column online and in magazines. Even then I wished I could snag a part-time position at a floral shop or botanical garden. Was a freelance writer and marketing strategist for start ups but still didn’t feel fulfilled. One thing led to another and I moved to Missouri to take care of my grandmother with advancing Alzheimer’s. I had no idea what was next but while randomly shopping for plants a year into the pandemic - I landed a gig at a floral shop and at a plant nursery. All in one day. Talk about divine timing.

Not only do I enjoy telling a story with flowers and spreading joy with them, floristry has become very personal to me spiritually. It’s my calling. I hope to be a helping hand to those I come across in this industry as I am pivoting into this new journey.