How It All Began…
The story begins about 25 + years ago at a small parish in Chicago where Colin had started his ministry work and wanted to provide weekly flowers for the congregation. He soon discovered that, if he obtained a business license he could get amazing flowers from a wholesaler regularly for church and friends’ events. As his love for flowers grew, he found an interest in creating florals for friends’ events. As more and more people found his creations breathtaking, his interest grew into many requests to make many brides’ dreams come true!
The business grew into flower design, plants, and unique local gifts.
He met Will on a blind date in Chicago, and the love grew as they continued to discover themselves and the many common interests they share. There’s a love for education, theater, animals, and Rome that has enhanced their new lives together. Marin, their sweet French bulldog joined their lives and made the family unit complete!
Colin Collette & husband Will Nifong on their wedding day - Rome 2015.
COLIN COLLETTE
OWNER & DESIGNER
Born in Sydney, Nova, Scotia, Colin settled in Chicago more than 25 years ago. With degrees from St. Francis Xavier in Nova Scotia and from the Catholic Theological Union in Hyde Park, IL, he has worked in worship and music in a number of parishes in the greater Chicago area. Today he runs his own Floral and Interior Design Business called Surroundings by Colin. He resides in Rogers Park with his husband, Will, and their princess, French Bulldog named Marin.
JILL PICCOLINO
RETAIL & EVENTS MANAGER
A native of the Northwest suburbs of Chicago. Jill holds a BA in Business Administration, Political Science and Liberal Arts. Working with Colin on many events is where she found her artistic niche and a love for creative design. She is cofounder of Agape, the Community of New Hope church. Exercise, travel, chance to learn anything new (as it keeps you fresh and renewed), and reading are high on her list of life desires. Other than helping customers find that perfect gift, creating special events, learning and creating design, she loves sharing life with her husband, two children and two grandchildren!
