Member Spotlight with Marc Johnson of Fiorella
“Show the World How I Perceive Beauty”
Photography provided by Kera Photography
Hi, my name is Marc Johnson, and I am the Owner & Designer for FIORELLA, a Luxury Floral Design company in Nashville. FIORELLA Nashville came into existence with the urge to do something that makes my soul content, the dire need for a creative outlet, and to show the world how I perceive beauty. I needed something to let me experience the pure joy I had as a child in making things for honest enjoyment. Isn't that what we're all running back towards in life? Throughout my 30 years on this earth, I've tried to find that for myself, and it seemed it always led me down the same path; flowers.
How did you enter into the hospitality industry?
I entered the hospitality industry when I became a opening team member and "wine tender" for Cooper's Hawk Restaurant & Winery in Tampa Florida in 2013.
What brought you to Nashville?
My journey to Nashville started with a job opening for the Sales & Marketing team for the Sheraton Grand Downtown Nashville in 2015. From that point on, I knew I wanted to be involved in events, weddings, conventions, etc., in some fashion. My passion for the hospitality industry flourished when I began to participate in many aspects of the behind-the-scenes and logistics that come with planning and running successful events. Nashville was on the initial wave of its renaissance, and events were at an all-time high in frequency and overall volume. I felt very fulfilled event after event, but I always wanted to be involved more in the design aspect of events. Picking out table cloths and glassware wasn't enough for me; I wanted to draw out emotions and set the tone with my work, and after seven years of hotel Sales & Marketing and Event Management, I think I found my calling; flowers. I couldn't be any happier!
Where are we likely to find you on the weekends or when you aren't working?
You'll likely find me searching for the next trendy restaurant, bar, or event. One of my favorite go-to places is Barcelona Wine Bar in Edgehill. Over the years, I've been able to come out of my shell and be more forward and overall social, so I'm definitely enjoying all that Nashville offers.
Name 3 things you cannot live without
I can't live without my sweet little Maltipoo Phoebe Iris, AtHome for my vase and decor addiction, and cream-based pasta dishes.
What is the best advice you have received?
It seems very cliche, but the whole "Fake It Till You Make It" has really helped me push myself into industries, social circles, and any other realms that I felt I didn't "belong" in or have enough experience to be a part of. Taking a deep breath and making the first move is usually the most challenging part, and I take what I learned from the initial moment and apply it to the next step, and then the knowledge builds from there. Eventually, you'll feel like you were always meant to be there in the first place.
What are you currently listening to? Podcast? Favorite song that motivates you?
My taste in music is all over the board, but I'm currently Joji's Nectar album. Two of my favorite songs that I've been going back to recently are James Blake's "Retrograde" and "Barefoot In The Park." As far as a song that motivates me, I would say anything Sevdaliza makes.
What would surprise us about yourself?
I have an infatuation with anything to do with science and technology. There's nothing like curling up with a whiskey sour and a good encyclopedia or a science documentary.
What are some career highlights and biggest career accomplishments?
I've had many accomplishments over my seven years in the hospitality industry, but I would say my achievements with FIORELLA Nashville have been the most fulfilling. I recently designed a floral installation for Lou Ridley, the "anti-country" Artist for her upcoming song Blind Eye which premiered for the Recording Academy Grammy Awards episode of Press Play at Home. Also, I've very proud of myself for making the leap and creating FIORELLA Nashville because I know it's the next step in finding my creative outlet and overall happiness.
Contact information: Where can members connect with you?
Feel free to say hello to me at any Heels & Handshakes event, call, email, or text. I love a good coffee shop conversation; let's set up a time to chat about florals, life, and anything in between. 615.880.8922 mj@fiorellanashville.com @fiorellanashville
To see more of Marc’s work you can visit our post about Holiday Party at the Virgin Hotel where he designed all the florals.
