
Tara Carlson, AIFD, CFD
My journey in the floral industry began at 15 when I took my first job in a flower shop. From the moment I stepped into that world, I knew I wanted to own a shop of my own someday. After graduating with honors from Hennepin Technical College in 2002, I continued gaining experience in both the industry and in life, leading me to purchase Sweet Pea's Floral in 2006. In 2017, I was honored to be invited to become an accredited member of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) in Seattle, WA. A year later, I was officially inducted in Washington, D.C. AIFD® is a prestigious organization dedicated to advancing the art of professional floral design through education, service, and leadership. Accreditation is highly selective, requiring candidates to demonstrate exceptional artistic ability and a commitment to ongoing education. I am proud to carry the AIFD® designation, signifying excellence in floral artistry. Beyond running a small business, my greatest love is my family. My children, Tiegen (16) and Jacqueline (12), are my world—and yes, they’ve both mastered the art of making boxes and mopping floors at Sweet Pea’s! We call Woodbury home, where we live with our two lovable Golden Retrievers, Lucy and Griffin, and our sweet cat, Cyndi.About Sweet Peas Floral
Sweet Pea's Floral specializes in fresh-cut flowers and live plants, perfect for special occasions and life’s most meaningful celebrations. Our team creates custom floral designs daily, bringing beauty and elegance to every arrangement.We are proud to have been voted 'Best Florist' in the Best of Woodbury consumer awards every year from 2013 to 2024.
Our expertise has also been recognized on an international level—Sweet Pea's Floral has been nominated for four International Live Events Association (ILEA) awards for 'Best Use of Floral' and won in 2016 and 2017.
Beyond our shop, our passion for florals takes us across the country. In 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024, our team traveled to Pasadena, California to help build the City of South Pasadena’s float for the Rose Parade. In 2022, we even had the honor of dressing as mice on the float as it made its way down Colorado Blvd.
Follow our journey and see our latest designs on Instagram: @sweetpeasfloralmn.
Where we deliver
Sweet Peas Floral proudly serves White Bear Lake, Vadnais Heights, West Saint Paul, Falcon Heights, Little Canada, Mendota Heights, West St Paul, Eagan, Lino Lakes, Maplewood, Columbus, South St Paul, Oak Park Heights, Grant Township, and St Marys Point.
Sweet Peas Floral also delivers to the following cities: Afton, Bayport, Circle Pines, Cottage Grove, Hastings, Hudson, Inver Grove Heights, Lake Elmo, Lakeland, Marine On Saint Croix, Mendota, Newport, Rosemount, Saint Paul, Saint Paul Park, South Saint Paul, Stillwater, Vermillion, Willernie