Truck culture is rampant– food trucks show up everywhere.   In some neighborhoods you might even still see the random beat up ice cream truck  at a park or, if you’re really lucky, you might just spot the illusive Big Gay Ice Cream truck and have the privilege of waiting in a 20- minute line for a cup of Salty Pimp. Of course, back in the day there was the milk truck with the guy in white pants and a white short-sleeved shirt who left milk and eggs on the porch.  And if you’re a boomer born and raised in L.A. you  have to remember the Helms Bakery Truck that pulled up in your neighborhood, sounded the whistle twice to announce its arrival, then dazzled you with the rows of every pastry and doughnut imaginable lined up in those sleek wooden drawers. Today , though, there’s a new truck in town to dazzle you– By the Bloom, a flower shop on wheels!   Owner and Founder, Tara Grand, had a 1999 step van converted into a mobile flower shop where she creates, stores, sells, and even delivers, her completely unique floral art throughout the Los Angeles area. I met Tara at Unique-LA where I got to see a little bit of everything she makes– oh so seemingly random, but ever so carefully designed  fresh arrangements, dried floral sculptures, succulent gift packs and even floral-wear:  wrist cuffs and head crowns made from sustainable plants that were inspired by the pieces she  recently created for her fans heading off to  Coachella . 

Tara has taken her experiences of living  and traveling through Europe, where flowers and gardens are everywhere, and created a mobile studio that  gives her the   flexibility to take  her creations everywhere in and around L.A.

According to her website, Tara has trained with various flower companies including London based Jane Packer, The Covent Garden Academy of Floral Design and Portland event florist, Francoise Weeks, which has allowed her to infuse her own style with traditional English and European designs.

So whether it’s a wedding, a birthday, a bridal shower, a hostess gift

or even something a guy might appreciate:

Tara has a bloom that fits every event, occasion, sentiment, customer or style.

You might find where Tara is rolling next by following her on twitter.com/bythebloom or just give her a call at  (626) 371-3870 .

After her recent coverage by Hollywood  Access and her appearance on KTLA she may be more busy arranging flowers than arranging where her truck will be next.  My advice: get on her list now before all the celebrities get a hold of her!