Why In-Person Events Like the Flower Farmer Forum Matter for Flower Farmers

In this week’s episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast, I had the pleasure of talking with Ali from Anderbery Acres in Nebraska. We met last year at the Flower Farmer Forum, and it was a full-circle moment to hear how that event impacted her journey as a flower farmer.

When we first launched the Flower Farmer Forum, the goal was simple: create an environment where flower growers could connect, learn, and grow. What Ali shared in this episode is a great example of how powerful that can be when it actually happens in real time.

Why In-Person Connection Still Matters

Ali talked about how the forum helped her move from working in isolation to feeling part of a community. That sense of connection is something many of us miss, especially in a business that can feel so solitary. Being around other growers—hearing their challenges, sharing ideas, and just knowing you’re not alone—can make a huge difference. Online groups are great, but they can’t replace sitting across from someone who understands what it’s like to build a flower business from the ground up.

The Shift from Grower to Business Owner

One of the key moments in our conversation was hearing how Ali began to view her work through the lens of business sustainability after attending the forum. She mentioned how conversations around pricing helped her reevaluate the value of her time, her expertise, and her product.

When we plan these events, we’re intentional about including sessions that are not just inspirational but practical. We want growers to walk away with tools they can use right away. In Ali’s case, those tools led her to adjust her pricing strategy and become more confident in how she presents her business.

What to Expect at This Year’s Flower Farmer Forum

I also shared some insight into what’s coming up at the next forum. We’re building on last year’s momentum with more breakout sessions, hands-on learning, and opportunities to talk directly with farmers at different stages in their journey. Whether you're in your first season or your fifth, this is a space where real questions get real answers.

Ali’s story is a reminder of how one event, one weekend, or even one conversation can have lasting impact. It’s also proof that no two paths in flower farming look the same—and that’s a good thing. Success in this industry isn’t one-size-fits-all. It's about finding what works for you, your land, your market, and your life.

Ready to Grow?

If you’re on the fence about attending an event like the Flower Farmer Forum, I hope this episode gives you something to think about. The time, the investment, the travel—it’s not always easy to justify. But for many farmers like Ali, it ends up being a turning point.

To hear the full story and get a sense of what these in-person events really offer, listen to the latest episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast. And if you're thinking about joining us this year, we’d love to see you there!