Friendor Friday with Stephanie and Marty of FH Weddings and Events

We are so honored to have our good friends, Stephanie and Marty, from FH Weddings and Events take over the ADP blog to talk about their business and the amazing weddings and events they help create:

How and when did you get started in the floral/decor industry?

I grew up in a very creative home so creativity was a natural gift passed down to me. I have always loved flowers and design. Once my boys were old enough I went to school for design.

What attracted you to the wedding industry?

I loved working one on one with the brides and being able to have a lot of creative freedom. There was so many more options for being creative other than designing a dozen roses.

Do you remember the first wedding you ever did?

I think so….I was so excited and nervous. It was simple, a few bouquets and boutonnieres. Nothing I would be proud of to show off now though. Lol

How did you develop your signature style?

By staying true to what I love and feel in design. “Creativity is embedded in who you are and comes from a deep yearning to express a piece of your inner soul.” Stephanie Prenatt

To date, what’s been your career highlight?

I was thrilled to be published in Weddings Illustrated Magazine in an article on “Top Trends, Top Florida Designers Share What Trends They Are Loving.” I also love looking back and seeing all the strides we have made over the years. It‘s a huge accomplishment and so excited to see our strides we are going to make.

What’s the biggest challenge in your field of work?

Juggling everything… AND reminding myself to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Favorite décor trends? A trend you wouldn’t mind seeing left behind?

I love the trends of lush large arrangements and garlands. I could do without ever seeing another mason jar or cylinder with submerged flowers.

Cliché, but, favorite flower? And, favorite flower to work with?

I have lots of favorites J Ranunculus, Anemones, Lilac, Peonies and Sweet Pea to name a few.

What flowers are in your favorite budget-friendly bouquet?

A good budget friendly bouquet would probably consist of Hydrangea and Roses.

Where do you look for inspiration?

I love looking around at nature. Usually the biggest inspiration comes to me when I slow down and see all the little things around me. The shapes, sizes, and colors of creation.

A bride’s Pinterest board…do you look, or not look?

I do like it….it gives me a starting point of the brides style.

I have to ask, do you always have fresh flowers at home?

I wish! I do make little flower creations here and there but for the most part when I am off I don’t want to work.

Any big future plans for FH Weddings?

Big Plans, Yes! We are expanding our furniture lines and décor options. My gut feeling tells me there’s big things coming our way.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Spend time with our boys, kayaking, the beach or fishing. I love hanging with close friends and family!

Any tips for bride on the design process?

When you start looking for designers check out their website, Instagram and Facebook pages. If you love what they design set a time sit down and go over specific design styles. Hire vendors you trust and get your vision. Your wedding day should reflect you and a good designer will get your vision, create it and bring it to life.

We have had the great opportunity of capturing Tampa wedding photography working with FH – check out some of the loveliness below.

This is from a recent beachfront wedding at the Don Cesar on St. Pete Beach.