Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mary Carpenter. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Mary, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Growing Give Paper Flora has been exceptionally meaningful because I believe “every flower holds a story”. With each creation, I truly believe I am joining the beauty of what I am called to make with the stories of each person who receives a flower, memorial bouquet, or other floral creation which becomes part of their memory surrounding the time it was given.
Carrying this idea further, I guide Forest Bathing (slow & intentional nature immersive, multi sensory experiences) walks with creative invitations, so people carry a visual memory of the relaxation they received from practicing Shinrin-yoku.

Mary, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

The prior question answered “my why” & a little of how it’s done. My creations & guided experiences allow people a space to rewrite their stories, whether they are making a flower, giving a paper floral gift or creating while in nature. My life had a huge metamorphosis about 3 years ago after experiencing physical & emotional healing following trauma & 20 years of chronic illness. I still live with a few health issues, but I feel my creativity allows me to be a catalyst to help others step into and celebrate their new life chapters. The majority of my change happened after turning 50. If I can be an example of living full & utilizing challenges to help growth blossom, then I’m a happy camper!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I lived in a difficult situation I did not realize I was perpetuating with my choices (no regrets, just Kintsugi growth!) which did not blend well with Ankylosing Spondylitis (a rare form of arthritis) & Interstitial Cystitis, as well as Fibromyalgia. After that chapter began to close, Covid hit & I decided to hone in on my paper floral making skills & begin to grow a business. I then experienced profound healing, which the doctors could not explain other than “miraculous” (praise God!). I decided to partner with coming off of Humira & experiencing more mobility by using my creativity to combine with slow, intentional, healing time in nature. This added expansion to my already nature based art under “Give Paper Flora” is called “Florilluminate”. I still love with some chronic health issues, but movement, Forest Bathing, good eating & consistent creativity are part of my “second story”.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My goal is to help people reconnect with themselves, the natural world, the people around them and the Creator. It is my joy to help bring others into a colorful, wonder-filled journey that emphasizes being present in the moment & encourages holistic, creative healing and fun.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.givepaperflora.com
• Instagram: @givepaperflora
• Facebook: @givepaperflora
• Linkedin: @givepaperflora
• Youtube: @givepaperflora
• Other: Tiktok @givepaperflora