The concept is inspired by the local food movement. "The idea really seems to connect with people," says Sensenbrenner, who built her base of suppliers via farmers' markets.
Sensenbrenner supports the "slow bouquet" as an antidote to the flower industry, which is dominated by imported factory-grown cut flowers, doused in chemical preservatives, most of which end up as waste.
"We get very used to things like a dozen roses on Valentine's," she notes. "But why? There can be something just as beautiful that's grown locally, and you can feel good about it for a bunch of different reasons."
Weddings are a cornerstone of Farm to Vase, and its subscription program (think community-supported flowers) is growing. Sensenbrenner is responsible for all elements of the business, and she designs, assembles and delivers every bouquet.
Farm to Vase avoids waste by donating unused flowers to nursing homes, mental health centers and "anywhere else I see some need for cheer," says Sensenbrenner. A former teacher, she also donates $1 from every bouquet to projects endorsed by Girls Not Brides, which works to end child marriage and promote education.
With winter approaching, Farm to Vase's seasonal approach turns to "heartier" flora, like kale and flowering grasses, with the holidays bringing evergreens, holly and sumac. These bouquets are long-lasting, and stand out.
"I remember on Valentine's Day when I delivered to an office building," Sensenbrenner explains. "There were 10 bouquets lined up on a desk. They're all these very manufactured-looking flowers, which have never seen real dirt or sunshine. Then there are mine, which are fragrant and fresh, and might have sap on a pinecone and a sprig of fresh rosemary."
