Flowers hold a special place in our lives, adorning significant occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and weddings. They convey messages of gratitude, recovery, and condolences. Throughout the year and across various celebrations, flowers embellish spaces, churches, and banquet halls. But have you ever wondered where these exquisite blossoms originate? Meet the floriculturist, or more simply put, a flower farmer. In Saratoga, one such artisan is Brooke Seitz, the owner of Barefoot Brooke Farm.
Barefoot Brooke Farm follows a seasonal rhythm, cultivating their own flowers from May through October. They cater to a diverse range of local orders, offer weekly flower subscriptions, and specialize in crafting stunning floral arrangements for special events and weddings.
Brooke, with a degree in Art & Design, may not have received formal training in floral design, but her artistic background has significantly contributed to the success of her flower farm. Unburdened by the rigid conventions of formal florist training, Brooke has the freedom to explore unique and creative expressions in her floral arrangements. Her innovative approach is one of the keys to her business’s achievements, though she also finds immense joy in the act of growing the blooms.
Becoming a floriculturist was not initially Brooke’s intended career path. She was once a teacher in Encampment. However, the challenge of finding suitable daycare for her young children led her to choose a different path as a stay-at-home mom. Her passion for flower gardening, inspired by her parents, especially her mother’s solace in gardening during a battle with cancer, fueled her journey. Upon leaving the classroom, Brooke began crafting arrangements using the flowers they grew. This marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial venture.
Barefoot Brooke’s Flower Farm is currently in a phase of expansion. Brooke’s husband actively participates in the business, and they are relocating the farm to larger grounds. This move will enable them to grow a greater variety of top-quality blossoms and accommodate more customers, including those seeking specialty orders. Additionally, they are contemplating expanding into the world of florals and tablescapes, collaborating with local businesses and caterers in the area, to bring a touch of natural elegance to various occasions.
