Tokay High School FFA Floral Program: Growing Students, Growing Business

As a senior in high school, Anabel Quintana is already an experienced florist with her own business. She’s been able to launch her career thanks to a combination of creativity, business savvy and the education she’s received for the past three years.

“From this class, I have started my own floral business called AQ Florall. I offer floral services for events and individuals and market my business on social media,” Anabel said. She’s so invested in her fledgling floral career that she is a state finalist for CA FFA Ag Sales Proficiency and has earned her state FFA degree for her work. She is also considered something of an expert among her peers as she serves as a member of the Tokay FFA Floral Judging Team and recently won 1st High Team at the Gridley Field Day.

The floral design students at Tokay High School aren’t just learning how to arrange beautiful blooms; they are running a business. Their clients include the high school, of course, but they’ve also had orders for all of life’s major events, whether for a baptism, prom, wedding or funeral. Their work is proudly displayed on their Instagram page @tokayfloral.

Becky Freeman is the instructor for Tokay’s FFA Floral program, which has been operating since 2011. “We have three courses in the floral design pathway,” she said. “We offer a monthly subscription service. We also offer wedding and large event services as well as small occasions. We also do most of the floral needs for the school such as prom, graduation and sports senior nights.” Becky teaches students all about the floral industry, how to care for and handle flowers, the principles and history of floral design as well as the business aspects of operating a florist shop.

Anabel produces lovely arrangements and bouquets. “Some of them are very challenging and others are simple,” she said. “I specialize in rose bouquets.” The budding florist does all the purchasing for her business through wholesalers and online vendors. What was once a hobby has become an investment in her future. Now that she has the education and the experience, she plans to continue to grow her business. “I truly enjoy working my business and making people happy with flowers,” she said. Her work can be found on Instagram @aqflorall.

But first, Anabel plans to further her education after high school graduation. She will attend California State University at Chico, where she plans to major in ag business and plant and social science.