Story & Lesson Highlights with Akiko Coats of Rancho Palos Verdes

Akiko Coats shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Akiko, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My family brings me joy as always, and they are the reasons to keep me going.
Aside from my flower arrangement work, music is a big part of our family.
Our two daughters play the violin since they were very young.
They are now teenagers and still enjoy playing the violin in various orchestras and ensembles.
Our house is always filled with the beautiful sounds of their violins, and their music gives me inspiration!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a home-based event florist as I believe in developing a personal relationship with each of my customers, so I can provide the highest-quality floral arrangements for their very special occasions.
I have been providing floral design service in Rancho Palos Verdes as well as the greater South Bay.

I work closely with very reliable wholesale flower shops that enable me to select and secure the perfect colors and types of fresh flowers based on the customers’ requests.

One of my specialties is color coordination, that can really enhance the beauty of the flowers.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My parents never pressured me with their expectations and didn’t force me to do anything I didn’t want to.
They always trusted me and supported me with my decisions even though I sometimes made mistakes.
With their unconditional love and support, my creativity and curiosity never stopped expanding.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Follow your passion and intuition.
Believe in your potential that you haven’t discovered yet.
You can find the way to actualize your visions with your passion and faith.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
With my Japanese background, I value Japanese craftsmanship that pays attention to details and building a deep connection with my clients and even the flower materials.

Picking the freshest and finest flower materials is one of the most important factors in creating a beautiful product.

In addition to the creation process, the communication with each client and providing the best customer service is a vital part of my business.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I believe that I am doing what I was born to do. I genuinely enjoy creating flower arrangements and making my customers smile and happy! That is my driving force to continue working as an event florist by myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.akikosfloraldesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akikofloraldesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akikofloraldesign/
• Other: https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/akiko-s-floral-design

Image Credits
Autumn Rose Photography
LXN Photography
Shoreline weddings
Top of the Rock