Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Bentley.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story?
I have always been passionate about designing, colors and innovating. When I graduated from UCLA, I knew I wanted to work in a creative space. Initially, I worked in political public relations and political journalism. Although I loved writing, I knew I wanted merge my creative passions with my innate entrepreneurial spirit. I explored several possibilities including starting a plus-size magazine as I was a plus-size model signed with Peak Models and Talent. I greatly enjoyed modeling and it is an excellent side hustle but I decided owning a magazine was not my calling. After assisting several friends and family members with their wedding flowers and decor, I knew I found the perfect fit. I completed several floral design and special event decor classes at West LA Extension and on April 10, 2008, the day after my 25th birthday, I started Scarlet Flowers Designs. Over the last twelve years, my team has provided customized floral arrangements for private clients, major corporations, local and national nonprofit organizations, and many celebrities. Our work has been featured in national print publications, award shows, and multiple television broadcasts. Our specialties are weddings, events, particularly large galas and funerals.
Since large gatherings are currently prohibited due to COVID-19, we have shifted our focus to contactless deliveries for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, sympathy and thank you. Recently, we have also been working on intimate weddings, baby and bridal showers and parties.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As a young Black woman, starting a business in a field where there were not many people who looked like me and who I could easily relate to, the first obstacle I faced was getting people to give me a chance to bid on contracts and events that typically went to larger, more well-known and more established companies. I had to be persistent and diligently stand behind my high-quality products and exceptional service. I leveraged my strong network of friends, family, classmates and sorority sisters for support and referrals and before long, I was able to bid on, and book, many high-end clients.
Another challenge was building and developing relationships with vendors and wholesalers for flowers, vases and hard goods. I had to research, seek out mentors, work with other companies and have open and respectful communication with the people I met. The years I spent cultivating relationships with vendors and event professionals are now bearing fruit and I am able to secure the best quality products at reasonable prices – which translates into better offerings for my clients.
COVID-19 has decimated over 40% of Black-owned businesses; while I am grateful to still be operational, my business has not been immune to the challenges presented by the pandemic. We had to pivot our entire business model and marketing strategy when our entire full calendar of events and weddings was canceled or postponed this spring and summer. Since schools in LA have not reopened, I also have to balance the business with my six year old daughter’s virtual learning.
Scarlet Flowers Designs is a boutique floral design studio offering custom creations for events, weddings, funerals and everyday floral needs. Our primary focus is superior freshness, unique style and personal touch. Our highly professional team of talented, detailed-oriented floral designers of color – with unparalleled skills – are sure to infuse any arrangement with love, appreciation and care. Creativity, and an ability to understand the specific needs of each of our clients, is perhaps what sets our florists apart from the rest. When working with our clients on events, we pay close attention and listen to the client’s vision, unique style, favorite flowers and color preferences. Our dynamic team can create an array of designs – from simplistic contemporary to loose vintage-inspired or lush English garden florals. Our number one goal is client satisfaction.
A new addition to our repertoire is floral design classes. In these hands on classes taught by experienced floral designers, participants will learn about basic flower compositions, tips for caring for flowers and create their own arrangement using provided tools and materials. Classes are available for both virtual and live demonstration for individuals or intimate gatherings.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in a large close-knit family. Although I did not have siblings, my cousins were like brothers and sisters and we are still close today. Many of us attended elementary school together. My parents were very involved and present in all of my activities including dance classes, school performances, swim meets, Black history bees, and oratory and writing competitions. My mother and father instilled in me very early on the value of integrity, treating people the way you want to be treated, hard work, excelling academically and giving back to your community. My grandparents, aunts and uncles were also very instrumental in my development. We cooked, gardened, traveled and shopped together and they taught many important lessons. I have always been very outgoing and talkative and enjoyed speaking in front of a crowd. Despite having double knee surgery after dislocating both of my knees more than twenty times, I gained self-confidence by participating in church, community and school programs. Overcoming the great physical challenges at a young age taught me the determination and tenacity, I use in my business daily. Growing up, I enjoyed crafting, swimming, writing poetry, traveling with my family, amusement parks, making dance routines and having sleepovers with my cousins and closest friends. My friends were much like family and we have remained close over the years. My friends and family have truly shaped the person I am today. I am incredibly blessed.
Pricing:
- $50 minimum for delivery
- $35 for pick up
- For event, wedding or funeral inquires please submit on website
Contact Info:
- Address: By appointment only
3614 W. Jefferson Blvd
LA, CA 90016 - Website: www.scarletflowersdesigns.com
- Phone: 626.590.0576
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamscarlet/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/scarletflowersdesigns
Image Credit:
MLG Photos, Diamond Dust Photography, Hilda Photography, Chenier Amor Photography
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