Today we’ve got a glimpse into the creative space of one of our faves, Shotgun Floral Studio. Emily’s studio is one you really can’t avoid becoming inspired by. We were from the moment we laid eyes upon those dark walls and vessel-lined shelves. Plus, her advice for those getting into weddings or any creative industry really, is a must read. Our girl Shannen Natasha of The Wedding Artists Collective has all the photos in the post!
What was the best decision you’ve made and how do you define success?
Hiring Charlotte was the best decision I’ve made in my business. She is the backbone of Shotgun and is an amazingly creative and wonderful person. It’s so much better to do the work you love with people who love it as well. How do I define success? Finding balance in life and work that is ever changing and never constant. Trying to find out what makes you the happiest and going for that. Being happy is being successful.
What keeps you inspired in your business?
The people we work with, the changing of the seasons, and to be honest, our really creative and amazing clients. We pull a lot from their personal style and this year we loved every single one of them. It’s also easy to get distracted with what other people in the industry are doing and creating, so while it’s good to show support for colleagues, we’ve found it’s best to look elsewhere in the design world to truly stay inspired. So many ideas can transfer over to floral work.
What advice would you give to anyone starting a floral business?
Try to define your style early on and get as much practice before starting as possible. Your style could be using something that no one else does or in a way that no one else does. I said, “I can do that!” I knew that I could and I think I’ve proven that but a lack of true experience can make things a bit more stressful in business ownership. I didn’t have a lot of formal training. Definitely get out there and practice before doing it yourself. If you are starting a floral business be prepared for anything!
Favorite floral trend of the moment? Wedding trend you’d love to see disappear forever?
Our favorite floral trend at the moment is big, branchy installation pieces. We’d like to see burlap disappear forever.
(Have you ever been so inspired to organize your shelves?!)
What’s on the horizon for your business?
In 2016 we are focusing on fewer, large scale private events, corporate events and weddings. It was so easy to say yes to everything last year but that is no longer the right avenue for us. We are also exploring e-commerce for fine home and event goods and putting our design sense into that possibly. We shall see!
If you weren’t a floral designer, what would you be?
An artist of an unspecified medium, that sells big beautiful pieces of canvas for people’s homes.
Thanks to Emily + Shannen for allowing us to take a peek into this creative space!
Photographer: Shannen Natasha of The Wedding Artists Collective / Studio: Shotgun Floral Studio
