While this local florist just planted her business roots in the city this year, she’s actually been bringing creative floral designs to life for much longer than that. Meet Hiraya Flowers! Owner Nicole is from the Philippines where she grew up in a family business that included all things wedding… including flowers! Her passion to blend a clients vision with her personal twist to deliver a uniquely wonderful arrangement is something she takes great pride in and delivers with ease. Just wait until you see her work! She’s sharing all that and more in the interview below!
Tell us about Hiraya Flowers + how long you’ve been in business.
Nicole: I’m Nicole –owner and designer of Hiraya Flowers. I’ve started Hiraya just this year but back in The Philippines where I grew up, we had an “all-in” wedding family business which means I was always surrounded with bridal dresses, wedding favors and of course, FLOWERS!!! We did the planning, decorating and my mom and her seamstress sewn all dresses from the bridal dress to the flowers girl’s. Whenever I take off my florist apron, you can either see me in my RN scrubs helping patients or in my traveling pants exploring new sites, culture and food! I usually design and create beautiful and unique arrangements by myself but when needed, my mom and my boyfriend help me especially with awe inducing floral installations. I live in Chapel Hill, TN with our 3 fur babies, Goofy, Otis and Harley. Hiraya is an ancient Filipino word meaning “the fruits of ones hopes and dreams” we aim to do just that – floral dreams realized. Romantic vibe and natural elegance are our design aesthetic pulling inspirations from whimsically wild floral arrangements to flower fields. We are a floral company located in Nashville, TN. We offer à la carte and full service designs.
How did you get started in weddings?
Nicole: Back in the Philippines, I grew up surrounded with blushing brides and their entourage ready to share their wedding visions & getting measured for their dresses, wedding favors needing assembling, yards and yards of fabric and tons of beads and sequins, and flowers (for some reason a lot of gladiolas! Lol!). We have since moved to Nashville and I have been a nurse since the move but weddings and flowers has always been in the back of my mind and here we are finally getting back to doing weddings.
What’s the philosophy behind Hiraya Flowers?
Nicole: Hiraya was just a dream to me and now that it has come to life, I want the same thing for my clients, their floral dreams come to life and in return bring joy and magic not just that night but every time they think back of their wedding.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category?
Nicole: Creativity is different in every individual and I think my creativity is unique but still flexible to bring as much of my client into my designs without losing my own.
What attracts couples to Hiraya Flowers?
Nicole: The natural elegance of Hiraya designs… not constricted and free moving.
What is the most innovative new product, service, style or other aspect of your industry that brides and grooms might appreciate?
Nicole: We use Agra-Wool. It is a biodegradable alternative to floral foam, reusable mechanics, and we try to have less waste as much as possible. Also, we offer Flower Crowns Headband style for that ease of wear and comfort.
Stun-ning! Thanks so much for sharing your Hiraya Flowers with us Nicole! We can’t wait to see more of your work poppin’ throughout town.
If you’re a couple looking for a wedding florist, be sure to reach out to Hiraya Flowers!
