This week's "My RI Life" spotlights Joye Whitney who's doing something new and (very) different with her Floral CoLab, a collective that offers floral design classes in a number of noteworthy locations throughout the Ocean State. I think you're really going to like it! Read on to find out more.

Find a creative outlet and be inspired!

I love flowers and I love to learn. I also like connecting people to one another and to new experiences and places. With these interests, I started a floral design school. The Floral CoLab is a Rhode Island based design collaborative. Designers from leading floral studios offer monthly classes in unique inspirational settings and businesses throughout Rhode Island. Classes are designed for any ability and provide participants with a hands-on learning opportunity. Next up: July 21st Make Your Own Living Centerpiece at Lorimer Workshop in Providence. Learn how to care and maintain succulents and create your own container garden while surrounded by hand-crafted furniture. Find out more at www.floralcolab.com.

The inspiration behind the Floral CoLab, is my work as a Project Manager at DESIGNxRI, a non-profit that coalesces the design talent in RI.  DESIGNxRI connects designers to one another and elevates awareness about design in our state.

Favorite Restaurants

North, on the West Side: I can’t pass up the wilted spinach salad with sunchokes (in spring) and radishes (in summer)!  

Chomp Kitchen & Drinks, in Warren: Best place for a burger and beer. There’s an interesting selection of craft beers. The house burger with smoked gouda and special sauce or the kale salad are my go-to choices.

Coveted Indulgences

Benefit Juice Bar & Café: Best smoothies and brownies.

Three Sisters in Providence: Their Dirty Garden Mint ice cream is a favorite. Refreshing, clean and satisfies any sweet tooth.

Keys to liking how you look:  A gifted hairdresser and exercise coach.

Stylist Mandy Soderi at Hair Heart and Soul in Bristol is the best! She goes the extra mile to consult, refine and make sure you’re happy with the end result. In need of the right products?  Mandy will suggest what’s right for you.

I use Deva Curl, low-pooh shampoo & conditioner.

Michelle LaRose is an exercise and nutrition coach in Exeter, RI I train with at least once a week. Her small group kettlebell workouts have pushed me and helped improve my balance, strength, agility, and mobility. I’ve also met a great group of women there who help motivate and inspire me.

But Wait There's More...

Click here to follow Floral CoLab on Instagram.

To LIKE them on FB, click here.

Photo Credits: All photos courtesy of Joye Whitney, except for Deva Curl and the kettle bells, which are courtesy of Google Images. Photos for North and Chomp are courtesy of their social media accounts.