We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristi Mayrand and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristi, other than deciding to work for yourself, what else do you think played a pivotal role in your story?
From a very young age I was always outside exploring. My Mothers love for flowers and gardening instilled a love of all things blooming. I ride horses, so being  outside in nature bright to life a creative side that loves to combine woodland, natural elements in all my designs. I’ve never been a cookie cutter designer, I like to test the limits and color palettes.

I also have a strong faith that God gave me my talents to help people in their most joyous moments or when they are hurting the most. I love to design arrangements that tell the story of one’s love and life. I believe in making my clients family. They know that I am personally invested in them and love being a part of the story of their lives with flowers and designs I create.

 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My greatest passion is weddings. No wedding is the same. I love to see the bride’s reaction when we present her with the bridal bouquet of her dreams.

I am continually updating my education and design skills to stay in tune with the upcoming trends, styles and color palettes in the industry. I’ve also become a part-time flower farmer. Peonies, dahlias, lilacs and tulips are just a few things blooming in my garden now. I also get to work with other great vendors all over WNC and beyond. Being involved in a great wedding industry community is an asset to my business. I can not do what I love without the talents of others to complete the weddings of our clients’ dreams.

I have made sure Stargazers Designs has always been involved in the community to give back to others. I involve myself and our staff to do monthly outreach within the community groups, our local animal shelters, etc. We pride ourselves on being a business of service to the community and we see the results by the clients that come in for everyday or wedding floral. 

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This is a hard one for me as I am happiest at home. Asheville and the surrounding areas offer a huge variety of places to eat and take in the atmosphere. When we do venture out we enjoy time spent in the beautiful outdoors. I would suggest a hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway or a bike ride on the grounds of the Biltmore House. Time in nature always helps me reset for the next big job. Horseback riding is a favorite thing for me to do with my Dad.
There are some stunning riding spots across the area that are so peaceful-it is not to be missed.
Out to eat at our some of our locally owned establishments is always a good idea. Sushi is a favorite of ours and we highly recommend Green Tea Sushi! But truthfully, you can usually find me at home when I am not working.
They all say “If you can’t find her in the flowers, find her cooking!”

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are 5 very special individuals that have been great encouragers in my life and my business. My husband Jeff. He is always there to help and encourage my creative side. He supports my vision for the business and has always been one of my biggest cheerleaders.
My son, Taylor. He has grown up with my business. Taylor has stepped up as he has grown with his help behind the scenes for wedding set ups and much more.
My parents, Joe & Juanita. They made sure to insure in me the qualities of a good work ethic. It shows in everything they have done and has taught me many valuable lessons over the years.
Lastly a dear friend & mentor, Judy Jones was a hard working woman that owned her own business and taught me that we have to work harder and longer to make sure our place is secure in the workforce. She was an endless supporter and taught me to never give up on your dreams.
I am who I am and my business is successful from all the support and encouragement these people have provided me from the start.

Website: www.ashevillewed.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stargazersdesigns/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StargazersDesigns

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.