Manna grew out of two passions. First, my love of flowers and the artistry required to create an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. Second, is my respect for the Earth and all who inhabit it. Unfortunately, the second passion does not parallel the floriculture industry as it operates today.
70% of the cut flowers sold in the United States are grown in Colombia and Ecuador using an obscene amount of highly toxic poisons, many of which have been banned in the United States. Being an agricultural product, flowers are subject to inspection for plant diseases and insects, however, not being considered edible they are exempt from regulations on pesticide residue. These chemicals adversely affect the farm workers and the land where these farms are located. Here are some daunting statistics:
- In Ecuador, nearly 69% of workers show poisoning symptoms including blurred vision, hand trembling, headaches and dizziness
- In Bogotá, Colombia flower workers are exposed to 127 types of pesticides and studies show moderate increases in birth defects, congenital malformations and miscarriages
- Residue form pesticides drains, (and is sometimes dumped), into waterways and aquifers working its way up the tropical food chain, having irreversible effects in the ecological balance in surrounding communities
Manna is committed to only working with flowers that are grown regionally in Colorado, Utah and California. I always begin with farmers in Moab and then extend the search, if necessary to meet the vision of the couple. By doing this I am supporting regional farmers and cutting down on pollution and oil consumption from shipping. In addition, my buying choices help to put pressure on the industry to reduce the amount of chemicals used in Ecuador and Colombia and increase the wages for workers.
Manna Floral Design works exclusively on weddings, thus ensuring undivided attention for your special day. I pride myself on constant communication with the couple and their families. This enables me to deliver a design that will capture the personalities and visions of the wedding couple.
Thank you for choosing Manna. In doing so, you are helping to improve the quality of life for others as well as giving a safer flower to a loved one.
