We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sky Armstrong a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Sky thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with what makes profitability in your industry a challenge – what would you say is the biggest challenge?
Inflation and the market volatility. The flower industry is facing product shortages from Covid + environmental changes with an increased demand. Freight has also been unpredictable to estimate. The floral industry already works on a slim profit margin as it deals with a perishable product and these changes make it even more challenging to correctly quote a project a month in advance, let alone a year in advance when most people plan their weddings.
Sky, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
With degrees in fine art and graphic design, I wanted to work in a creative industry. I wandered into a flower shop ten years ago and fell in love with the tactile + variability of the floral industry and haven’t left.
RLY RLY studio is a full service creative house focused on delivering unconventional experiential design. From interactive menus to transformative floral environments, we spare no design detail necessary to create immersive, unforgettable moments for any event or occasion.
Although I’m inspired by the Dutch Masters, I’m still a 90s kid and our brand style is a blend of the two. Think romantic and ethereal with lush fruits and florals but add some glitter, bright colors, and a few Beyonce lyrics.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
Referrals, referrals, referrals. The saying “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” rings true here. Cultivating relationships within the industry has been the most fruitful for finding new clients. Not only are clients more confident during the booking process if someone has vouched for you, it is often an easier process for vendors to collaborate if they’ve worked together before.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
I am nothing without my team and letting them know how important they are is only the start. We’ve created a transparent working environment that encourages open dialogue where their input and feedback is valued as more than part of a discussion. As a boss, I aim to be supportive while setting clear expectations to limit any confusion or potential tension.
This job often requires early mornings, late nights and long days filled with physical labor. Dance parties and lattes are a must but I also treat the team to dinner or massage gift cards monthly.
Contact Info:
- Website: rlyrlystudio.com
- Instagram: skyvanah
Image Credits
Josie V Photography Grace Gatto Jeff Fierberg Meraki Wedding Photography