A Night of Celebration and Excellence: The 2024 Bloom Awards Gala

After four years, the Bloom Awards Gala made its grand return as an in-person celebration, and it was everything we dreamed it would be. The evening shined a spotlight on the workers’ compensation industry’s brightest stars, honoring their achievements and celebrating their excellence in true red-carpet style.

We spoke with Mari Diaz, founder of the Bloom Awards and CEO of OM Marketing, about the night’s magic, the hard work behind the scenes, and her deep gratitude for the people who made it all possible.

Bloom Magazine: Mari, congratulations on such a spectacular evening! How does it feel to have brought the gala back in person?

Mari Diaz: Thank you! It feels incredible—surreal, really. After four years, being able to host the Bloom Awards Gala again in person was everything I hoped for and more. Seeing everyone walk the red carpet, dressed to the nines, celebrating together—it was a moment I’ll never forget. There was so much love, pride, and joy in that room. It reminded me why this event means so much.

Bloom Magazine: The event was so beautifully executed. What made it all come together so perfectly?

Mari Diaz: Honestly, the credit goes to my incredible team. I couldn’t have done this without them. Anailis Diaz was my right hand through the entire process. She gave her all, every step of the way, and I don’t have the words to thank her enough. Melissa Diaz and Samantha Diaz were equally amazing—they put so much heart into making every detail just right. This event is proof of what we can accomplish when we work together, and I am so grateful for each of them.

Bloom Magazine: The toy drive was such a beautiful part of the evening. Can you tell us more about it?

Mari Diaz: It was one of the highlights of the night! This year marked our 16th year hosting the toy drive, and it was a huge success. We collected an incredible amount of toys—far more than I ever imagined. Seeing the generosity of everyone who attended was so moving. These toys went to No More Tears, an organization that does such important work for children in need. Knowing that we were able to bring joy to so many little ones this holiday season made this event even more meaningful.

Bloom Magazine: The awards celebrated so many inspiring people. What does this event mean to you personally?

Mari Diaz: For me, the Bloom Awards Gala is about shining a light on the people who make this industry extraordinary. This was the 13th annual Bloom Awards, and the winners and nominees represent the best of workers’ compensation—leaders who show us what’s possible when we bring dedication and heart to our work. This year’s winners were nothing short of amazing, and it was such a privilege to celebrate them in a way that felt special. Seeing their excitement and watching them shine—it was everything.

Bloom Magazine: Any final thoughts as you reflect on the evening?

Mari Diaz: I just want to express my deepest gratitude. To our winners and nominees—you are the reason this event exists. Your excellence and leadership inspire all of us, and it was an honor to celebrate you in style. To our sponsors—thank you for believing in this vision and making it possible. Your support means the world, and we couldn’t have done it without you. And to the Bloom team—Melissa, Samantha, and Anailis—you are the heart of this gala. Your passion, creativity, and dedication brought this dream to life, and I am so proud of what we accomplished together. This event wasn’t just a night of awards; it was a celebration of excellence, resilience, and the incredible people who make this industry shine. To everyone who made this gala a success, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Together, we’ve created something beautiful, and I can’t wait to see where we go from here.

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees of the 2024 Bloom Awards!

To view the 2024 winners, you can read the 9th Edition of Bloom Magazine at https://www.justbloomco.com/bloommagazine