The Society of American Florists’ membership includes all segments of the industry — and that community is the heart of SAF. This bi-weekly feature spotlights SAF members sharing inspirational stories, professional insights, and the opportunity to form new industry connections.

Megan Gerace, floral account executive at GravityFree

Megan Gerace began her floral journey in 2019 when she made her way back to Florida after working in destination marketing at two lodges near Yosemite National Park. Initially, she was drawn to the smart and dedicated team at GravityFree, she says, but her passion for her role as floral account executive grew even more as she worked with retail florists across the country and learned how vast, diverse and unique the industry is. Connecting with so many talented hard-working florists fuels her desire to leave a mark on the industry that brings joy to so many people, Gerace says.

“Getting to support small and/or local businesses is definitely the highlight of my job,” she says. “Seeing the impact flowers can have on a person and a community is unparalleled and knowing that I’m supporting the businesses that are making that happen makes everything worth it.”

Favorite Tools for Work

Gerace has two favorite tools for success at work. The first one is Basecamp, which she likes because it  keeps the GravityFree team’s campaigns organized and aids in collaboration.

Her second favorite tool is TikTok, which Gerace uses for inspiration.

“Right now, spending a few minutes on TikTok will have my head spinning with ideas of what we can do for our clients and how we can make connections to the new voices that are emerging as potential customers,” she says.

Biggest Challenge as a Floral Marketer

Since floral purchases tend to be evoked by emotions, tapping into those emotions on days that aren’t tied to a holiday or a special occasion can be a challenge, Gerace says.

“It’s that same challenge, though, that allows us to get creative and engage with potential customers in fun and unique ways,” she says. “It’s rare for the biggest challenge at someone’s job to be the favorite thing about their job as well, but that’s definitely the case for me.”

On Being a Young Professional

Gerace is excited to be part of the next generation in the floral industry because she sees a future full of opportunity.

“The way that the industry is embracing new technology and trends means that this industry will only continue to flourish,” she says. “There is always going to be a moment worthy of celebrating with flowers, and getting to be part of the generation that helps the floral industry adapt and change to continue to meet those needs and add new traditions is exhilarating.”

Megan Gerace (back row, third from right) and the Gravity Free team.

Why SAF? 

GravityFree has been an SAF member since 2017. Gerace’s favorite thing about SAF is the built-in community that comes along with being a member — and how supportive that community is.

“It is great to connect with people who know your success is success for the industry and in turn, them,” she says. “From the SAF team to other members, this community can get things done, whether it’s finding resources, sharing tips and tricks, or helping organize on a larger level.”

Gerace is also involved with SAF’s Next Gen group and is hosting the upcoming virtual happy hour on Thursday, July 27, with the GravityFree team. They are discussing how to keep up with tech trends (such as artificial intelligence and the latest in social media marketing), how to identify which tech tools are useful and how to successfully implement them in your day-to-day. Register here!

Gerace was recently featured on SAF’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Do you know a member who should have a chance in the spotlight? Email Stephanie Brady, project manager for SAF.

Stephanie Brady is the project manager for the Society of American Florists.

Related posts:

Member Spotlight: Sarah Harmon of Rubia Flower Market in West Lafayette, Indiana Member Spotlight: Erik Hagstrom of Albin Hagstrom & Son in Pierson, Florida Member Spotlight: Adam Havrilla, AIFD, ICPF, PFCI, of Artistic Blooms in Chicago, Illinois Member Spotlight: Debra Prinzing, PFCI, of Slow Flowers