There are some amazingly talented wedding vendors in Texas. Pouring through popular wedding blogs is always exciting because it’s the best way to view the work of the rockstars of the wedding world. That’s actually how we first stumbled upon Sprout – by drooling over their gorgeous flowers on numerous featured weddings on Style Me Pretty.
When Melanie’s wedding planning began, we just HAD to meet the creative genius behind sprout. Once we did finally meet Michelle Hodges, we fell even more madly in love with her work. Not only is her storefront gorgeous and creative, she can take a concept and implement it more beautifully than ever imagined. Perhaps my biggest delight from Sprout’s work for Melanie’s wedding was the gorgeous branch they built above the ceremony space. Melanie had drawn a simple branch and requested greenery be placed on it. Michelle and her team rocked than vision – they practically constructed an entire tree atop the altar!
Photo Credits: Sarah Q Photography
Before you view more of Michelle’s gorgeous masterpieces, we want you to get to know her a little better.
(1) How did you get started with your floral business?
After being a bit burnt out in my previous vocation, I moved to a smaller town and wondered if it was possible to make a living doing something I actually enjoyed. It started quite small—actually in addition to a paying job. We simply had a flower stall outside a local restaurant and offered fresh flowers by the stem a few days a week. After a few years, I wanted to be able to have the luxury of being indoors and perhaps even a floral cooler to keep the flowers fresh, so we opened the doors to Sprout in February of 2007. The first week we were open, I received a call asking if I would do the flowers for a wedding. I actually said, “I’ve never done it before, but I’m willing to try.” And believe it or not, they agreed! Since that time, weddings have become my bread and butter, so I am very thankful for that first gutsy bride.
(2) What has been a challenge for you in launching and/or growing your business?
The brides that come to me usually have somewhat of a sophisticated aesthetic—which I love. However, it can be a bit tricky at times pulling this off without the resources that a larger city would provide. I think it takes a bit more planning on my part, or maybe just a different kind of planning. There’s no running down to the market to see what’s available. That said, I’ve developed some great relationships with my suppliers who often have to be my “eyes”.
(3) What’s your favorite thing about your job?
Hands down, it’s handing the bouquet to the bride.
(4) If you didn’t do what you’re doing now, what would be your dream job?
Doing what I’m doing without any of the stress.
(5) If you were a superhero, who would you be?
I’m not very up on my superheroes—I didn’t even see The Incredibles—so with my limited knowledge, I guess I would have to say Wonder Woman. It just sounds like she could get it all done. Although I’m not very fond of her outfit—yikes!
Photo Credits: The Nichols, Sarah Q Photography
Photo Credits: Q Weddings, Crystal Littrell Photography, West Vita Photography
Thanks Michelle! We love your work!
