To Market We Go | Say It With Flowers
Keepin’ It Fresh
Recently our youngest daughter made her First Communion. She wore a beautiful dress from Spain, borrowed from a friend, and I wanted something special to compliment it. Enter STEMS by Kate, a South Bay floral designer. Katie used to live down the street from us and I’d always see her toting buckets of flowers with a big smile on her face. As the big day approached I reached out to her and asked if she could design a simple flower crown with some Baby’s Breath and maybe some roses. She said she’d put something together. That something is pictured above! My suggestion was clearly outdated and Katie created a gorgeous design that everyone raved about. The crown was worn to dinner that night, the beach the next day and is still residing on the top shelf of our fridge.
Q & A With Katie
What do you like to do in your free time?
I spend much of my time outdoors. You can find me in or near the ocean most of my days off.
You have a cozy nook in Malaga Cove for Stems by Kate. Why is this place special to you?
This special space has been home to me since I was 15 years old. That was 28 years ago when I started working here for the previous owner. It has been home to so many. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of getting to know this beautiful community, which I now, can easily call family. I feel blessed every day.
You’ve been a successful business owner for a number of years, what do you attribute your longevity to?
My family. My friends. My STEMS staff. And this amazing community. And maybe a little hard work along the way. But mainly, my support groups. Couldn’t do it without any of them!
Did you need to make many adaptations with how you interact with your clients these last few months?
We are all adapting. Still adapting. If anything, my interactions have become more deep and connected. I’ve cried with brides, I’ve crazy laughed with brides, I’ve thrown my hands up in the air with brides. Events and weddings are our main production here at STEMS. Almost all celebrations have moved to next year. We will all get there with patience, love and flexibility.
What are your days like leading up to a large event, like a wedding?
Lots of prepping. Lots of market runs. And long hours on your feet creating for the big day. (Some might say, I might be a little crazy)
When your alarm goes off at zero dark thirty, do you excitedly jump out of bed and head straight to the flower mart or do you need a minute?
I don't set an alarm. I am always up about 10 mins before I need to be and head straight out the door.
Do you have a favorite, go-to flower that you rely on or do you like to experiment with various ones?
I always like to experiment! But I also like to rely on the seasonal goods. Like right now, I'm loving the dahlias!
Your website is clean, straightforward, and filled with gorgeous images of flowers, what experience do you want potential clients to have when first visiting your site?
Thank you, that is what I was going for. I just want my future clients, to see variety, have clarity and be inspired!
How do you use social media for your business?
I use Instagram on the regular @stemsbykate which is linked to Facebook. I love being able to share our creations with everyone.
If you want to send someone a beautiful arrangement, Katie is your go-to!
STEMS by Kate
75 Malaga Cove Plaza
Palos Verdes Estates
California 90274
310.373.5077