Maple Grove Florist Named Designer of the Year

A local business owner in Maple Grove has earned a major new title to add to her resume: state champion.

Leah Schmidt, co-owner of Styled Stems in Maple Grove, was named the North Central Florists’ Designer of the Year following a rigorous multi-stage competition held at the Minnesota State Fair.

Schmidt beat out a field of 60 florists from across the region to earn the top honor, a result she says came as a complete surprise.

“It was really shocking. I really wasn’t expecting to win it all,” Schmidt said. “I know the steep competition that I’m up against, so I’m still kind of shocked by the whole thing.”

Leah Schmidt, co-owner of Styled Stems, stands next to one of her award-winning floral arrangements at the Minnesota State Fair.

Winning Under Pressure

The multi-part contest challenged florists to showcase both their versatility and speed. Initial rounds tasked competitors with crafting floral creations around a specific theme: a “Garden Glam Party.”

Participants were required to design both a wearable-themed hat and a themed centerpiece.

After making it through the preliminary rounds, Schmidt advanced to the top six finalists.

The final stage brought a high-pressure twist.

Competitors had to design a large, intricate centerpiece arrangement live on stage in front of an audience.

Schmidt’s on-stage creation ultimately won over the panel of judges, securing her first-place finish.

Putting Styled Stems on the Map

For Schmidt, the title represents more than just individual recognition — it is a major milestone for her business as it establishes roots in the community.

“Hopefully it’s getting our name out, especially with us being new to Maple Grove,” Schmidt said. “The more people that know about us, the more outlets that we can get in, the better.”

Along with the Designer of the Year title, Schmidt took home a $500 cash prize and a massive traveling trophy.

Much like the NHL’s Stanley Cup, she will hold onto the trophy for the year before passing it along to next year’s champion.

This floral arrangement submitted by Leah Schmidt at the Minnesota State Fair helped her win the Designer of the Year award.

Related: Styled Stems Flower Shop Takes Root in Maple Grove

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