James White

 Production Specialist

Is STUDIO’s go-to production lead, with an infinite knowledge of venues, loading docks, and back entrances all across Kansas City. He knows the warehouse like the back of his hand and plays a key role in keeping production operations organized and running smoothly. No truss is too high for James to climb, and he’s usually the one adding the fabulous topper to each holiday tree installation. His rigging and event production experience makes him an invaluable part of the team — and he’s known for working magic with a can of spray paint. Outside of work, James enjoys skateboarding, spending time outdoors with his kids, art and anime, learning new languages, and constantly diving into a new project or invention.

Ashley Ritchie

Sales Project Manager & Production Ops Supervisor

Has been with STUDIO for the past three years, and started her career with the company in logistics and vendor coordination before transitioning into a sales role, giving her the opportunity to guide events from initial concept through final execution. “Seeing each vision come to life, and the joy it brings to our clients and their guests, is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.”  Most days, Ashley can be found juggling calls and fine-tuning every detail to ensure each event feels seamless, thoughtful, and unforgettable. Outside of work, she enjoys creative pursuits like painting, photography, and roller skating, and is currently taking a pottery class. An animal lover, she especially adores her dog, Bennie. She also loves sunshine, live music, travel, and spending time with friends. And if you’re looking for a goodt gluten-free restaurant in Kansas City, she’s always happy to share a great recommendation.

 

Eric Kiekhaefer

 Technical Direction Supervisor

Joined STUDIO in 2026, bringing a strong background in theatrical construction, shop management, and themed events. He combines creativity with efficiency, helping ensure every behind-the-scenes detail comes together seamlessly. As a key link between production, logistics, retail, floral, and management, Eric keeps operations running smoothly while supporting the collaborative energy that brings each STUDIO event to life. When he's not at work, he enjoys camping, travel and being outdoors.

Tony Crockett

 Production Specialist

Has been delivering flowers for STUDIO for more than 10 years and knows the Kansas City area like the back of his hand — a skill that definitely comes in handy when navigating busy delivery days. One of his favorite parts of the job is the joy that comes with every delivery. “Flowers make everyone happy — from the florist creating the arrangement to the person receiving it,” Tony says. “It brings me a lot of joy to be part of that.”

Outside of STUDIO, Tony enjoys hunting, traveling, photography, and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs as a lifelong fan. His favorite delivery destination? Arrowhead Stadium on game day!

Gale Nation

Studio Branch Manager & Marketing

Joined STUDIO four years ago as a designer on the holiday team, and helps out in floral whenever needed. In 2025, she stepped into managing STUDIO’s retail and floral operations at the company’s new Waldo location. She also serves as design lead for the holiday décor team and oversees installations for homes, hotels, and businesses, decorating over 100 trees each season. Gale brings a strong background in design, small business ownership, teaching classes and workshops, and extensive experience in merchandising and management. Her favorite part of the job? Creating meaningful customer and client experiences that make everyone feel welcome and creative, and rearranging our retail shop. When she's not at work, she enjoys trying new restaurants, traveling, loves to stitch and embroider, is a voracious reader, plays the piano and consumes way too much caffeine.

Will Rhodes

Floral Specialist

Has been a florist with the STUDIO team for more than three years and also brings valuable experience in retail merchandising to the role. He thrives on creative challenges that push boundaries and enjoys projects that require both vision and problem-solving. For Will, the best part is always the final reveal — seeing clients’ excitement and joy makes every bit of hard work worthwhile. Outside of STUDIO, he enjoys exploring Kansas City with friends, discovering new bars, restaurants, and coffee shops, spending time with his Chihuahua, and experimenting in the kitchen with new culinary creations. He’s also a fan of comedy shows, live music, poutine, and fresh pasta. 

Justin McGuire

Floral Artistic Design Team Lead

Has been with STUDIO for 24 years, and has more than 30 years in the floral and landscaping industry. As lead florist and creative director, he is especially inspired by modern and botanical styles, creating arrangements that feel both elevated and organic. He has longstanding relationships with many of our clients, and is well-known for his gorgeous bridal bouquets and huge, stunning floral installations. His extensive plant knowledge - from indoor tropicals to outdoor annuals and perennials -  allows him to combine his talent for floral artistry with a deep understanding of how plants live and thrive. When he's not at work, he enjoys international travel, camping, and spending time outdoors. At home, he keeps a 75-gallon fish tank, has two Chihuahuas, and likes cooking for friends.  

Jennifer Freimanis

Floral Specialist

has been with STUDIO for nearly four years, bringing a lifelong passion for gardening, landscaping, and creating floral arrangements for friends and family. As a florist, she is especially drawn to monochromatic palettes and lush, garden-style designs that feel both refined and organic. For Jennifer, each day is an opportunity to create something elegant, intentional, and beautifully composed.  Outside of work, she's a mom to 3 kids, an accomplished home cook with a love for international cuisine and recently learned to play mahjong. She enjoys jazz clubs, draws inspiration from frequent trips to New York City - especially its window displays - and spending time with her husband exploring all there is to do in Kansas City.