Life & Work with Brianna Conley of Marietta, GA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianna Conley.

Hi Brianna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I spent years in Corporate America, but something was always missing. While I enjoyed the people I worked with, it never felt like it was truly me. Outside of work I was filling my time with more hands-on creative jobs. I cheered for the Atlanta Falcons where I got to continue my creative outlet of dance. I also coached at F-45, taught barre, and yoga classes. I was juggling multiple side-jobs that I thought fulfilled me creatively and allowed me to connect with people.
A pivotal moments came in 2020 during Covid when I could no longer coach my fitness classes due to personal family reasons. I was home alone, not working, so I poured myself into making sure guests that came to visit my husband and I feel welcomed. I would always have fresh flower arrangements in our guest’s rooms. It started out simple, with no design. But it soon sparked a creative desire in me. I began seeing flowers, textures, colors, scents and placement in arrangements as art instead of just flowers. A friend told me how special she felt because of the flowers I took the time to design just for her. Seeing the joy on her face made me realize I wanted to pursue a career in floral design.
I took a leap of faith and dove all-in to the world of floristry. I made it a point to learn from and work with some of the top designers in the country. I quickly realized my love for weddings and events. I thrive on the big day-from having to get creative when something goes awry to seeing the look on someone’s face as they walk in a space transformed into a fairytale, It’s a bit of magic added to a moment that should be celebrated.
I opened Ivy & Iris in 2025 and it’s more than just a job for me. I bring couple’s visions to life, a smile to a loved one’s face when they celebrate life’s biggest moments, and a small but significant moment of beauty to our everyday lives. I am so grateful to have found a career that not only feels like me but also allows me to spread happiness through the art of flowers.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been a smooth road. I’m relatively new to the wedding and event industry where relationships with planners, venues, and vendors hold a lot of weight. I’m navigating networking, marketing, and being a small business owner while being a creative at heart. However, I am enjoying the beginning phases of owning my own company and putting myself out there. I know struggles are how anyone grows and setbacks are an opportunity to learn and/or pivot.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in stylish romantic floral designs. Each arrangement is unique, thoughtful and intentional to the couple or event.
My fresh style of florals sets me apart from traditional floral designers. But what I am most proud of is my attention to detail and get-it-done attitude on event days. Not only will I design beautiful flowers but I will also jump in wherever help is needed to make the day go off without a hitch.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
I can learn something from everyone and every situation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ivyandirisdesigns.com
• Instagram: @ivyandirisdesigns

Image Credits
Hillary Leah Photography
Mecca Gamble McConnell
Applehead Photography
Patrick at Accent Decor Inc.