Starling x Flowers by Ford
How did you get started in the floral industry?
I have always loved flowers and nature! My childhood was filled with it. It was actually my husband, Hudson, who encouraged me to pursue floral work after college. He connected me with a flower shop where I persistently sought an internship (I asked three times!). After gaining experience there in Oklahoma, we moved to NY for jobs in different fields. During the pandemic, with newfound free time, I delved deeper into floral work, leading Hudson and me to explore the possibility of starting our own business. Things took off unexpectedly fast, and we've been focusing on floral design and events ever since. It's been a whirlwind, but incredibly fulfilling, to grow our own business!
What's your favorite part about your floral work?
What inspires you/ your work?
Throughout my life, I've felt a deep connection to nature. Strolling through a garden fills me with joy, and my aim is to create floral arrangements that complement nature's beauty and inspire awe. Nature has always been a source of peace and my greatest inspiration. I'm drawn to the delicate, vibrant, and unique qualities of flowers, and I love using them to create designs that evoke a sense of life and movement.
Do you have any sentimental pieces of jewelry? Tell us about them.
The sentimental piece of jewelry I cherish most is a single diamond necklace with a gold chain, inherited from my aunt who passed away in 2019. It's a reminder of her elegance, her love for family and nature, and her unwavering support for my floral business. Wearing it connects me to her memory and the love she shared. She consistently supported my business and always sent an encouraging DM when I posted flowers. I feel her support and love when I wear it!
Why did you chose the flowers you did for the Starling x Flowers by Ford Flower Charms?
Peonies, cosmos, and sweet peas are three of my most cherished blooms, each representing a distinct chapter in my life. Their captivating fragrances and vibrant colors add a unique charm to any floral arrangement.
I have fond memories of wild sweet peas growing in my hometown, which is why Starling and I incorporated the tendril into the design. It's a nostalgic tribute to my childhood.
Peonies hold a special place in my heart as they symbolize my first job in the floral industry back in Oklahoma. Their presence always brings me back to my roots, reminding me of where I started and reigniting my passion for this fulfilling career.
Cosmos have become a beloved flower for me during this chapter of my life in New York. I eagerly anticipate incorporating them into my designs, thanks to the abundance of local growers in the New York Market offering a vibrant array of colors. Their bright and cheerful nature perfectly complements the energy of the Flower Market.
What's your earliest memory of flowers?
From a young age, I dreamed of a life surrounded by flowers. My childhood was magical, thanks to my creative parents who filled our home with handmade furniture and vibrant colors. My mom painted my room with tropical murals that covered even the floors. Our garden provided me with endless opportunities to pick flowers, fostering my deep love for nature and solidifying my desire to work with beautiful blooms.
 |
 |