Our Story

Jude’s Blooms was created in honor of Jude Raia, a dear friend whose passion for plants left a lasting impact. While attending McCallie together, Jude shared his love of gardening and spent countless hours tending his own garden — inspiring a deep appreciation for flowers that continues to grow today. After Jude’s passing from a brain aneurysm, Jude’s Blooms was founded to carry forward that spirit: cultivating beautiful, thoughtfully grown flowers for weddings, photography, and meaningful moments. Every bloom is grown with care, intention, and in remembrance of a life that continues to inspire.

Jude Raia

December 22, 2001 — October 31, 2022 Birmingham, Alabama

Ben Blake-Johnson, founder of Jude’s Blooms is from Worcester, Massachusetts. His love for growing flowers began during his time at McCallie, where he developed a deep appreciation for gardening and thoughtfully cultivated plants. Inspired by meaningful connections and a passion for beautiful, seasonal blooms, Ben now focuses on growing high-quality flowers for weddings, photography, and special occasions, with an emphasis on care, intention, and natural beauty

About the Owner