We were lucky to catch up with Mg Icaza recently and have shared our conversation below.
MG, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. If you’re open to it, can you talk to us about the best (or worst) investment you’ve made. What’s the backstory and the relevant context behind why you made the investment
The best investment We’ve made, has been Yolee and Teemo, our vintage VW single cab trucks. From the moment they became part of Roots and Flora, they’ve truly stolen the show. While flowers are undoubtedly the heart of what we do, Yolee and Teemo are the stars that draw people in. Their charm and uniqueness make them instant conversation starters and crowd magnets at every event and pop-up we do.
We wanted something special to elevate the experience for our clients—whether it’s creating bouquets at a flower bar, hosting a workshop, or simply offering a whimsical centerpiece at a gathering. The vintage aesthetic perfectly complements the natural beauty of the flowers and helps create unforgettable moments.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Maria Gracia, but most people call me MG, and I’m the proud owner and creative behind Roots and Flora. My journey into this industry started with a deep love for nature, creativity, and the joy of bringing people together. Over the years, I realized how much beauty and meaning flowers bring to life’s special moments, and that inspired me to turn my passion into a business.
At Roots and Flora, we specialize in creating custom floral arrangements, including bouquets, centerpieces, corsages, and boutonnieres. But we go beyond traditional floristry—we love incorporating unique elements like succulents, fruits, and even vintage touches to create designs that truly resonate with our clients. For example, we’ve made everything from cascade-style wedding bouquets to hand-crafted Cinnamon Floral Citrus Brooms, each one designed with intention and vibrant energy.
One of the unique aspects of our business is Yolee and Teemo, our vintage VW single cab trucks. They’re not just vehicles; they’re mobile floral experiences. We use them for pop-up events, flower bars, and workshops, creating unforgettable moments for our clients. Whether it’s a corporate event, family gathering, or bridal shower, these trucks bring charm and whimsy wherever they go.
What sets us apart is our dedication to personalization and collaboration. We don’t just create arrangements; we bring our clients’ visions to life, whether it’s a woodland-inspired hairpiece, a Thanksgiving centerpiece, or a bouquet with a sentimental touch. Every piece is a reflection of the person or event it’s made for, ensuring it’s as unique as the story it represents.
I’m most proud of the connections we’ve made and the joy we’ve brought to our clients. Whether it’s helping someone celebrate a milestone, honor a loved one, or simply brighten their day, it’s an incredible privilege to be part of those moments.
At the heart of Roots and Flora is a commitment to creativity, collaboration, and community. I want our clients to know that everything we do is made with care, love, and a little bit of magic. When you choose Roots and Flora, you’re not just getting flowers—you’re getting an experience, a story, and a memory to cherish forever.”
How’d you think through whether to sell directly on your own site or through a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc.
I sell my products both on my own Roots and Flora website and on Etsy. Having these two platforms allows me to reach a wider audience while maintaining control over my brand.
My Roots and Flora website is my primary hub. It’s where I can fully showcase my work, tell my story, and provide a seamless experience for my clients. The biggest advantage of my own site is that I have complete control over the design, branding, and customer experience. It allows me to connect more personally with my clients and build a direct relationship without any third-party distractions.
On the other hand, Etsy has been a great platform for expanding my reach to people who might not find me otherwise. Etsy is a well-established marketplace with a built-in audience that appreciates handcrafted and unique items, which aligns perfectly with what I offer. The downside, of course, is the fees and the competitive nature of the platform. It’s easy to get lost in the crowd, so standing out requires extra effort in photography, descriptions, and customer service.
Using both platforms has been a great balance. My website helps me nurture my brand’s identity, while Etsy helps me tap into a larger audience. The combination of the two allows me to share Roots and Flora’s creations with as many people as possible while keeping a personal touch.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
I believe my reputation is built on my commitment to going above and beyond for my customers. I truly pour my heart into each creation, ensuring it reflects their vision while also exceeding their expectations. I’m my toughest critic—I won’t consider a piece complete until it feels absolutely perfect, both in design and in the energy it conveys. That dedication to detail and customer satisfaction has been the foundation of my work and the trust my clients place in me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rootsandflora.com
- Instagram: @rootsnflora
- Facebook: Roots and Flora
Image Credits
@sal_stephen