The Fresh Bunch
The Fresh Bunch (formerly '2 Fat Guys Talking Flowers') is your all-access pass into the wild and wonderful world of flowers. Hosted by Michael Black, Mimi Pacheco, Ryan Black, and producer, Joel, keeping us sounding fresh—we bring you unfiltered conversations about the good, the bad, and the ugly of the floral industry’s trends, challenges, and characters. From flower fails to petal-powered success stories, each episode blends laughs, insights, and special guests from all corners of the flower world. It’s part podcast, part therapy, and all fresh—welcome to The Fresh Bunch - a Jet Fresh Flowers podcast.
The Fresh Bunch
Ep. 195 - Rooted in Passion with Marc Sassen of VIP ROSES
In this episode of The Fresh Bunch, we dive into the remarkable journey of the Sassen family—whose story began on a small carnation farm in the Netherlands in the 1960s and blossomed into one of the world’s most renowned floral brands.
Marc Sassen, destined to be a grower from childhood, reflects on working alongside his mother and siblings and how those early days shaped the family’s boutique, art-driven approach to flowers. Though the brand has far outgrown the original farm, the Sassens continue to operate with the same hands-on craftsmanship and creative passion that set them apart.
We unpack the origins of the VIP name, the evolution of the brand, and the deep family history behind it. Marc also shares how the next generation of Sassens is stepping in to carry the legacy forward.
Plus, we explore the powerful partnership with Jet Fresh Growers—from the exclusive VIP Choco Roses to new innovations in VIP breeding. This episode is filled with insights on positivity, patience, creativity, and what it truly takes to bring something special to the floral world.