Each month, LivRio features an interview with one of the industry’s hottest floral designers, to find out what inspires their creativity and learn about new trends. This month, we interviewed Christy Hulsey.
A BIT OF BACKGROUND…
Flowers found me, not the other way around. In 2012, a 50-year-old flower shop fell into my lap. To keep it alive without much talent, skill, or money, I relied on the only resources I had: Internal conviction, a journalism degree (of all things), childhood days sent to the garden by Grandma, luck, and really supportive people. Fortunately for me, storytelling, honesty, authenticity, and grace effortlessly transfer into the magical world of flowers. In six years, I’ve had the honor of doing things that make me think, after telling everybody I am not a florist, that maybe I am. I’ve had the honor of representing the USA in Shanghai, Beijing, and Kunming. I’m a winner of the Mayesh Design Star competition and worked at the White House, Coastal Living, Southern Living, Quito’s Agriflor, and for celebrities. I’ve also worked on a Rose Bowl float, and I’m the only florist in UGA’s 40 Under 40 class. In the flower shop I’ve worked in janitorial, deliver y, retail, events, been a video personality, manager, and educator. I am original, tenacious, loyal, resilient, quiet at times, artistic, and dyslexic. In August, I moved from my hometown to Atlanta, Georgia—and I love it
- When did you start developing these amazing flower designs and where do you get your inspiration?
I started designing four years ago, but I’d say it’s been with me the whole time, so it began developing at birth. My designs aren’t typical: They ’re whimsical compilations of seasonally relevant flowers, fruits, and leaf y branches, a bit street and a bit haute, inspired by nature. And they reflect the spirit of my grandmother who loved gardening.
- What is your vision for the new generations when it comes to buying habits, flower trends and flower designs?
Nobody says, “it’s flower time!” like this next generation. We’re in a floral renaissance because of the un-bouquets and the DIY-ers who like amusing flowers that are funny, unusual, and mischievous. They like story-rich, rebellious product, and find anything that photographs well and has a hashtag irresistible.
- Anything you would like to share about your relationship with Rio Roses?
Weather, music, my children, my husband, and my mood— everything’s included in a floral design recipe. And you know what? Rio Roses has a flower for that! Seriously, the selection is vast. Further, I am drawn to the familial origins of the company that started in 1986. I am also appreciative of their effort to empower florists, with blogs, social postings, and digital magazines.
