After a client reaches out to me, I arrange a complimentary initial consultation during which I can learn about the event and the client’s floral visions. After the consultation, I will send a very detailed preliminary proposal of the floral creations planned, and often, I will include small sketches of various elements to give a visual representation of their ideas or of alternative ideas that we may have discussed for their consideration. There have been times when my sketches helped a client determine that they preferred a new look. For example, one bride determined from sketches I provided that oversized urns as opposed to a deconstructed arbor were going to create the best look for the ceremony space for her garden wedding. I entered into the realm of creating floral designs for others when I started doing prom bouquets for my sons' prom dates and for their friends. An English teacher by trade, I soon found many of my students seeking my help for their corsages and boutonnieres. I even did an online tutorial for my juniors during the Spring of 2020. They were not going to have the prom they had so looked forward to. But I taught them how to make a bouquet or boutonniere for themselves, encouraged them to have fun getting dressed up, and we enjoyed our own prom fashion show in our virtual classroom.
Oak Street Florals
Budget and pricing are obviously an important element of the decision process for anyone planning an important life event. In my consultations with clients, my first question is never, “What is your budget?” I want to hear first about the event, the people involved, and the atmosphere that the client is trying to create. Then, I strive to create a proposal that is true to the vision of the client and in keeping with their budget. There are some florists that will not accept clients spending less than $5K, $7K, or even $10K. If you are having a big event that is going to reach that level of floral budget, Oak Street Florals is here for you! However, you won’t be turned away if your needs are simpler. Elegant floral design that captures the spirit of your event doesn’t have to push you beyond your budget comfort zone. In time, I was getting requests from friends and family, not for prom bouquets, but for wedding flowers. Though I wasn't intending to start a business, I soon realized that I needed to in order to best meet the gradually increasing interest in my floral design work. Consequently, Oak Street Florals was born, a literal ``cottage industry`` that I run from my home in Wakefield, RI. I've enjoyed creating floral arrangements for weddings, funerals, birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers, holidays, fundraisers, and even a movie set. I deeply appreciate the trust my clients place in me to create beautiful, personal, and unique arrangements for the special moments in their lives.
Once a plan and a budget that the client is happy with has been finalized, I will take it from there to be sure that every detail is carefully considered, designed, sourced, created, and delivered. I will consult with clients closer to the date of the event to verify details and tweak timelines for delivery and set up. I would describe my approach to the details of every event I design for as painstaking. I will go to great lengths to be sure that everything is just right in every way.
I entered into the realm of creating floral designs for others when I started doing prom bouquets for my sons' prom dates and for their friends. An English teacher by trade, I soon found many of my students seeking my help for their corsages and boutonnieres. I even did an online tutorial for my juniors during the Spring of 2020. They were not going to have the prom they had so looked forward to. But I taught them how to make a bouquet or boutonniere for themselves, encouraged them to have fun getting dressed up, and we enjoyed our own prom fashion show in our virtual classroom.
