Meet Kelly Jean Ross | Floral designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Jean Ross and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly Jean, what principle do you value most?
I think being true to oneself is so important. Being honest about what inspires you, trusting your instincts, listening to your gut. Honing and refining your artistic voice is vital. There’s so much noise out in the world, but when you can just focus on you and create art from a true and pure place, it shows. And it’s magical.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

At this current stage of my career, I’m touching every aspect of my business on a daily basis. Most mornings I’m at the flower market around 6am, either shopping for current events or scouting product for future projects. I love getting to see and chat with all my vendors I’ve created relationships with over the last five years, it really starts the day off with sweet energy.

My main source of work is wedding floral and other large scale events, parties, and activations. I take on a select number of deliveries during the week as well, especially during holidays like Valentine’s and Mother’s Day. I adore the weekly accounts I have, providing fresh floral once a week to my client’s homes and offices. Some of my all-time favorite work has been created on set for editorial shoots or magazine covers–it provides a different avenue of creativity than my other work and it’s really nice to mix the energy up.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love my neighborhood so much! I’ve lived in Silver Lake/Virgil Village since the beginning of 2019 and just adore it. I’d suggest grabbin’ breakfast at Courage Bagels (get there early to beat the line!) and then walkin’ across the street to Salt Ceramic’s new shop/studio. Brunch at All-Time is also a must. Lounging at the Silver Lake Reservoir is always really cute. Healing Force of the Universe is a new record shop in Pasadena and it’s gorgeous! Dinner at L&E Oyster Bar. Drink at Capri Club, movie at Vidiots, then scootin’ down to Walt’s for a game and hot dog. The Los Feliz flea on Saturday mornings is really sweet. Descanso gardens when the roses are in bloom. LACMA for some art. Taking the scenic roads to Malibu for a secret beach day is always a good idea.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am nothing without the folks I’ve worked for, early clients who booked me at my full rate, artists who recommend me, and planners who continue to hire me.

Rachael Lunghi of Siren Floral Co. is a powerhouse in the floral industry and has been a massive inspiration of mine for over ten years. Since moving to Los Angeles, I’ve had the chance to freelance for her and our relationship has blossomed into a real friendship and mentorship. I’ve never felt luckier. Meet your heroes.

Felisa Funes of Of the Flowers and was my first employer in L.A. five years ago. Her artistry and innovation in the floral and art world is unparalleled. As a fellow artist-turned-florist, her view of the floral world is unlike anything I’ve seen. She’s never boxed in with ideas and is always challenging herself to create in a new way. She stays true to herself and inspires me to do the same.

Leila of Leila Benirschke Collective produces and creates show-stopping events in Los Angeles and nation-wide. She is thoughtful and thorough with calm and strong energy no matter the situation. We’ve worked together numerous times over the past few years with clients like HBO, goop, Louis Vuitton, and Roger Vivier and I feel lucky every time I’m on her team.

Website: kellyjeanross.com

Instagram: kellyjross

Image Credits
Lauren Scotti Fist Full of Bolts Bliss Braudakis Kenzie Kate Floyd