As a wedding photographer, I often get asked for my recommendations on the best wedding vendors in the business. This week, I want to introduce you to my number one local florist. I sat down with Kristen Brown, owner of Vintage Soul Floral Design to learn more about where she found her beginning as a florist, and where she draws her inspiration from today.
Kristen is extremely talented and one of the most creative people I’ve ever met. She is constantly building, drawing, painting, and creating and I’m always excited to see what project she’s working on next.
Y’all — meet Kristen!
“I’m a navy brat from Williamsburg, VA. And I’ve been a floral designer for a little over ten years. I started my business a year ago this month! I remember being so excited when I officially registered my business name at the clerk of courts. It felt like a definitive beginning to something big in my life!”
-
“I love weddings, it’s one of the most important events in a person’s life. Helping someone plan for and make beautiful thier big moment is beyond fulfilling to me. It’s amazing to take a space and make it special and unique for a couple looking to celebrate thier love and commitment to each other. If I come in and work hard, at the end of the day I get to stand back and see a space that I just know will make that couple feel special, and that they will remember. You can’t beat that.
Looking back I believe weddings have always held a fascination for me. I used to coordinate weddings in my parents camping tent in the front yard, I would officiate as well as act as the bride. My brother was the groom, so I’m really glad I wasn’t a licensed officiant! I just knew I was meant to be a business owner & in the wedding industry! After working as a catering manager, in linen sales, and then wedding planning – I met the owner of a flower shop who was willing to take me on as a newbie. My dream job! Nothing in life makes me as happy as being in a room full of flowers. Well, maybe puppies, but it’s a close call!”
-
That’s a tie. The flowers of course! But also the bride’s face when she sees the design we planned come to life. Most of the time it’s in my head and I can only articulate, sketch, or show similar examples of the design plan, my goal is always for her to say it is better than she imagined!
-
I like to get to know my clients and leave a few details to surprise them. It’s great that the guests come with no idea what to expect but in my opinion the couple are the most important guests! It’s more fun if they have things that surprise and delight them together on their day!
-
We are a curious, creative, and mainly self taught group. I have been blessed with two amazing mentors! I was invited to help a florist friend with a big wedding, that was my first floral design experience and it hooked me! Her name is Roula and she’s family now basically! Also I had the pleasure of working with Jonathan Davis , now with Clux Florals, who is amazingly talented. It’s honestly disgusting how talented that man is, and he’s s great teacher and friend. Now out on my own I follow big industry talents on Instagram to keep tabs on trends.
-
When working with a wedding professional of any kind, find one you can trust. Then trust us! We want to make it perfect, no need to stress yourself out! I like to take your vision and make it even better!
