Gorgeous centerpieces, distinctive bouquets, and wildly unique touches...you name it and Vince Gray can bring your dream wedding to life. I love talking to Vince and hearing him describe how he sees a wedding or event come to life. I'm not exactly sure where he gets his amazingly creative ideas, but there is one thing we're certain about - when to comes to floral design, Vince and his team at Flower Stems will come up with a slew of fun and classy ideas to make your big day completely one of a kind.
I have always had a creative side and have enjoyed the arts my entire life. I started in the floral business over 17 years ago by opening Homewood Florist on the recommendation of a friend, who believed it would be a good creative outlet for me to explore. It turns out they were right! I opened a second florist in Helena years later when I had a home in the area. I moved back home to Homewood, sold the Helena business, outgrew the Homewood store and settled into the Loft at Flower Stems downtown, which we have been in for 4 years. We have over 10,000 sq. ft. of space, which works out great because we are able to work out of the downstairs portion and rent out the upstairs loft for weddings, rehearsal dinners, receptions and events/parties. Although many of our events are outside of the loft, we do enjoy holding parties here. We have a true NYC loft atmosphere with a large crystal chandelier, modular white Italian leather furniture and a very open floor plan. Brides love the character provided by the space. We also are very accommodating, allowing clients to use any outside vendors of choice and the freedom of bringing in their own alcoholic beverages. I personally meet with each bride and design each wedding that Flower Stems coordinates. I have a passion for my business and enjoy being ethical in helping brides with their individual budgets. I am always striving to put a different creative element into every wedding and do not like to be repetitive in my designs.
How would you describe your style/product?
Our inventive living works of art utilize seasonal and regional elements in a modern way. Here at Flower Stems, we set the trends and do not follow or copy works from other events. Each wedding should be a reflection of the individual bride's style, vision and taste. If it is a free choice, we have a highly unique, modern and elegant style that is always elegant with a twist.
What separates you from other Birmingham area vendors?
Just as each couple has a different story and each bride is distinctively special, we never design the same event twice. We are a full service event design company and coordinate/design everything from wedding flowers, linens, lighting, rentals, centerpieces, and other detailed elements of décor. Our staff is extremely skilled in working with design elements such as color, texture, shapes, furnishings, food, lighting, and even music to create individual and unique experiences. By setting the tone and mood, we can ensure your wedding will be both memorable and breathtaking. First, a consultation appointment is scheduled in which we will get to know your individual couple personality-the dreams, ideas, passions, styles and visions you both share for this special day. We are skilled listeners, and we will stop at nothing to bring your vision to life. We have an unsurpassed passion for our profession and value our unique creativity and ability to work within any budget. I personally designs each event for our clients and has been in business for over 17 years.
What would you be doing if you didn't work in weddings?
If I was not involved in the wedding business, I would probably be involved in some full time line of missionary work with my church, The Church of The Highlands. I am very passionate about helping the less fortunate and spreading the good news of my savior, Jesus Christ. As a new Christian myself, it is very important to me to show love to others and reach out to those who are unable to help themselves. I am not necessarily adamant about being a "pushy" religious individual, but simply care to love on those who have not ever felt wanted or needed. I try to live my life in a daily way which puts others first and acknowledges there is no problem too large or small to bring to God. We never know what another person is going through during their daily struggles and I strive not to judge others or become quick to anger. I am involved with The Dream Center ministry and would more than likely embark on some full time outreach service. However, through my business I am blessed with the opportunity to bring flowers each Thursday to the people we outreach to and the appreciation and gratitude for that small act of kindness is truly a blessing for me to receive.
Favorite TV show and why?
I really don't have much time for television and probably am the only person who has yet to invest in TiVo or a DVR system. I enjoy spending time with my 4 yr. old son Walker any free time I have. He LOVES to come to Flower Stems to help work and is already becoming such a wonderful little man in so many ways! We go to the park, the zoo, ijump, but mostly just enjoy playing at home and jumping on the trampoline with the neighbors, making art, and wrestling with each other. He has just started soccer and karate. He is the love of my life and is so creative and brilliant! But, the television channels I frequently watch in my alone down time are the Discovery Channel, the History Channel and Nat-Geo.
What advice would you give to brides in choosing a florist?
Just as each couple has a different story and each bride is distinctively special, we never design the same event twice. Our design team will create a cohesive style that translates throughout your entire wedding. Each bride needs to find a florist who can translate and design their style and vision for their specific day. Although many florists have signature styles, we recommend a bride find a florist who can go beyond the scope of their own style and really reach the understanding and vision of the couple. Also, personality compatibility is a key aspect of the decision process.
What advice would you give to brides on the wedding planning process in general?
Put together a team of trusted vendors which you enjoy, can relate to and always maintain a line of communication to greatly reduce your stress level. This is a guarantee to staying organized and on task. The wedding planner is the much needed "head coach," of your vendor "playlist" and will ensure no little detail is overlooked on your special day!
Whether you're going for something totally traditional, uber modern, country chic, beach babe, or some fabulous twist in between, you can count on Vince Gray to design an unforgettable look for your soiree. Call Flower Stems today at 205.835.2003 to schedule your appointment. You can also go visit their beautiful Loft at 213 Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard South in downtown Birmingham.
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