Suggestions
Elise Bernhardt
Owner, Fleur Elise Bkln. Director, Jerusalem International Fellows
Professional Background
Elise Bernhardt is a dynamic creative leader and educator who has seamlessly merged her passion for flowers with her extensive experience in the non-profit sector. As the founder and creative director of Fleur Elise Bkln, Elise has carved out a niche in floral design that prioritizes creativity, education, and community engagement. Her journey began at Sarah Lawrence College, where her love for flowers intersected with her diverse knowledge in anthropology, choreography, art history, neuroscience, and early childhood education. Teaching her first flower design class illuminated her path forward, allowing her to share her passion with others.
Elise's innovative approach to floral design goes beyond simply arranging flowers; she utilizes the principles of dance composition to inspire her students. Believing that "Flowers are like dancers only quieter," she encourages individuals to express their creativity and collaborate in unique ways. Elise has dedicated her career to not only teaching floral design but also to using it as a tool for team building. Her workshops are highly interactive, aimed at fostering teamwork and engagement among participants, especially for those in leadership positions such as Executive Directors and CEOs. This distinctive approach helps organizations cultivate a more connected and united workforce.
Education and Achievements
Elise is an alumna of Sarah Lawrence College, where she pursued a multidisciplinary education. Her studies encompassed areas that complement her creative pursuits, including anthropology, which informs her understanding of culture and community, and choreography, which shapes her pedagogical techniques in floral design. Additionally, her knowledge of art history and neuroscience enhances her ability to teach students about the aesthetics and psychology behind floral arrangements.
Throughout her career, Elise has held a series of prestigious positions within various organizations. Notably, she served as the Executive Director of the Brooklyn Youth Chorus, where she further honed her leadership skills while nurturing the musical talents of young people. In her role as the President and CEO of the Foundation for Jewish Culture, she oversaw initiatives that enriched the cultural landscape for Jewish communities, demonstrating her commitment to cultural advocacy through the arts.
Her work at the Kitchen, a non-profit organization that supports artists and performers, and as the Director at Jerusalem International Fellows showcases her dedication to creating platforms for artistic expression and intercultural dialogue. Elise founded Dancing in the Streets, a community arts organization, which reflects her belief in the transformative power of art and collaboration.
With a successful career as a creative director in non-profit organizations and a focus on floral education, Elise has truly embodied the spirit of creativity and community development. Her work at Fleur Elise Bkln highlights this commitment as she provides bespoke floral arrangements for various homes and events, ensuring that each piece is as unique as the individual it is meant for.
Achievements
Elise Bernhardt is not just a floral designer; she is a leader in the arts community whose contributions have enriched the lives of many individuals. Through her well-received flower design classes and workshops, she has cultivated an environment where students can explore their creativity and learn to express themselves through floral design.
Moreover, her ability to use floral art as a medium for team building in corporate environments distinguishes her educational approach. By assisting organizations in finding innovative ways to engage with their staff, Elise has transformed the traditional understanding of team exercises into memorable and enjoyable experiences that incorporate the beauty of floral arrangements.
Elise’s commitment to community engagement continues to reverberate through her work and her students. Those who attend her classes not only gain practical skills in floral design but also leave with a deeper understanding of the collaborative process that art embodies. Elise Bernhardt's impact on both the floral design industry and the broader artistic community cannot be overstated; she continues to inspire future generations of florists and artists alike.