Yamile Bulos
San José del Cabo (Los Cabos), Baja California Sur, Mexico
Instagram: @yamilebulos_floraldesigner
Facebook: @yamilebulosfloraldesigner
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born in Mexico City but grew up in a small town in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico, just north of Mexico City. At 31 years of age, I’ve experienced a remarkable journey filled with travel, international living and encounters with extraordinary individuals. The excitement of grasping opportunities and going on adventures appeals to me. I am a woman who embodies determination, boldness, diligence, creativity and an insatiable appetite for new experiences. I am energized by exploring other cultures; interacting with varied communities; and immersing myself in novel gastronomy, traditions and customs.
Tell us a little bit about your career and how you started in flowers.
I made the decision to change my life in 2019 and left my job as a marketing and communications professional. The plan was to take a few months off and rekindle a relationship with myself, but life had something much better in store for me: flowers! I was drawn to flowers, and I wanted to study floristry and floral design. I asked a florist in my city if I could work with him, and I sensed something special the moment I walked into his workshop. But it wasn’t until I used flowers for the first time and tried to “copy” one of his arrangements that I felt a connection to the work and experienced a sense of fulfillment. I was certain that this was what I wanted to do the rest of my life, so, after extensive research, I enrolled at the prestigious London Flower School where I learned not only the fundamentals of floristry but also how to tap into my creativity, use it to its fullest potential and find inspiration in unexpected places or things.
After graduating, one of my classmates invited me to work for her family’s business. I relocated to Bahrain to take on the position of head florist at the Yousif Qassim Artistic Center (YQ ART), a renowned event design firm known for developing cutting-edge floral décor for interiors and events. I had no experience, but like any challenge-loving person, I leapt at the chance. It was one of the highlights of my life, and everything associated with the experience drove me to become a better floral designer. I got to design and produce floral arrangements for royal weddings attended by more than 1,000 guests in just my first year.
I had to return to Mexico before my contract was up due to the COVID-19 pandemic, where I started taking online classes, honing my skills at home, and creating bouquets and arrangements for special events and private clients. I acquired more knowledge, security and experience, which helped me get my current job at a company in Los Cabos.
I say that flowers found me and saved me, and I have them tattooed all over my body as a daily reminder. I consider myself lucky to use flowers as a medium in a profession that enables me to communicate my creativity, enthusiasm and perspective on life.
What is your favorite type of flower design to create?
Every type of design is fascinating to me, but flower installations are my favorite. I relish the challenge of turning a large empty space into something incredible that no one could have imagined. However, creating bridal bouquets, which used to be challenging and frustrating for me, are now my favorite feature of a wedding because seeing a bride’s face when she sees her bouquet is very rewarding. My next goal is to perfect the art of wearable florals and floral designs for editorial work.
How would you describe your floral design style?
It’s hard to know exactly what my style is because it keeps evolving as I learn. It often takes cues from English garden-style flower design because my first studies were in England. It is lush and eclectic without sacrificing elegance, and it can also occasionally be wildly lavish and excessive. My designs always include a lot of movement, texture, a variety of flowers or additional details, and colors with a hint of finesse—as well as something unexpected.
What inspires you?
Nature, in all its splendor, remains my paramount source of inspiration and muse. But I’m also inspired by my favorite country, Mexico, which is a gold mine of traditions, art, vibrant attire, a kaleidoscope of colors, delicious food and plentiful resources. Music is another source of endless inspiration for me; I can’t work without its rhythmic companionship. Paintings, too—especially the works of the Dutch Masters and landscapes—captivate my soul. I’m also continually inspired by my colleagues and floral design mentors, who are brimming with talent and creativity. Last, but certainly not least, I draw inspiration from my father, who now resides in heaven. My parents have been my greatest teachers and role models.
What accomplishments are you most proud of in your floral career?
First, I’m fortunate to have been featured in Florists’ Review’s “35 Under 35” feature, to win two categories in the magazine’s “Picture Perfect Weddings” contest and to be featured on the cover. Equally significant are my achievements at the company I currently work for in Los Cabos over the last two years. Some of the weddings I’ve orchestrated have been featured in People magazine and on Carats & Cakes and Style Me Pretty. I’ve been interviewed for publications around the globe, and I was even extended the honor of participating in a major flower festival in Belgium. Among my most cherished achievements is my work in Bahrain, which demanded a rapid immersion into the country’s rich culture and traditions, overseeing large-scale events, talking to clients, executing mock-ups, coordinating the import of flowers from Holland and managing a team of florists. These accomplishments were beyond my wildest expectations when I embarked on this career just four short years ago. I am proud of where I am today, armed with knowledge, fueled by passion and ever-grateful for how far I’ve come, and I’m eager for what the future holds.
What current floral trends excite you?
The infusion of vibrant hues and exotic flowers creates a sense of vigor, fearlessness, power and empowerment into floral creations. Also, the incorporation of elements like fruits, vegetables, spices and even unexpected details adds an intriguing dimension and fascinates me. The trends toward intimate events and small-scale weddings and wearable floral designs also inspire me and ignite my creativity. Finally, championing natural resources and eco-friendly materials to craft ethically and sustainably is paramount.
What advice do you have for floral designers just starting in the industry?
Believing in oneself and avoiding comparisons, both within and beyond the industry, is crucial. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking others are more successful or talented, which can be incredibly stressful. In this era of abundant information and references, it’s common to feel overwhelmed rather than inspired. Initially, finding one’s own style can be uncertain, and drawing inspiration from other designers is fine, as long as it doesn’t lead to replication. Experimentation is key, which will lead to discovering what resonates most within us. Also, remember that flowers are our medium of expression, and no arrangement or creation will be the same when infused with passion, creativity and love. This is how we cultivate our distinctive viewpoint and make our mark.
It’s also vital to take pride in who we are and what we do as floral designers and artists. We’re not just beautifying spaces; we’re integral to events, bringing joy, light and vibrancy through our work to those who experience it. That’s why we must think outside the box and dare to do things differently. Travel, and push your boundaries. Don’t settle for the first idea; seek beyond. And this is paramount: Seize every opportunity fearlessly. Never underestimate your potential, and stay attuned to trends. Continuous learning is key. Read, watch videos, enroll in courses and workshops, connect with fellow professionals, and build a robust network. Embrace every relationship with your colleagues; sharing and learning from one another is invaluable.
What is your favorite flower?
Making this choice is never simple, yet, if I were to pick a favorite, it would be Ranunculus. They come in a wide variety of fun and fascinating hues, and I find their complex shape to be breathtaking. Also, lately, my fondness for Eustoma/Lisianthus has been growing exponentially. Although their variety of colors is amazing, it’s their delicate, graceful and elegant shape that has my heart.
What do you hope to do in the future?
I want to continue picking up knowledge from the top professionals in the field, and I wish to take part in competitions and flower festivals all around the world. As an independent floral designer, I want to focus on major installations, editorial pieces, photoshoots and anything else that involves a deeper creative process. I also want to be able to contribute to the field and even teach alongside some of my floral friends and inspirations, like Susan McLeary, Holly Chapple, Alyssa Lytle and others. It would be a dream to be able to share and teach all around the world. And, I would also love having a farm where I can grow my own flowers.
