Twenty years in the flower business, and Evelyn Aldaba still has that zest for the business as though it were just yesterday. Based in the Philippines, Evelyn is the first and only Filipino member of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). Just like most stylists, she started arranging flowers using orchids from her mom’s garden. Friends heard about it, she started getting orders, and eventually, her boutique was set up in 1986. At first she was into corporate accounts and birthdays; she was the first to style for hotels. Later, she ventured into weddings.

She is known for her calla lily designs—it’s no surprise that they’re part of the logo for her boutique. Evelyn says, “I understand the sway and movement of callas; whether I use it for a bridal bouquet, a table centerpiece, or an aisle arrangement, I can really make it stand out.”

Among all the stylists we talked to, Evelyn had the most number of success stories to share. There were instances when flowers were not delivered to the wedding and she would end up the lifesaver, supplying the couple’s last minute orders. A client sent her a personalized album handmade by the bride. In the album were pictures of the wedding with all the flowers and a card that said, “Thinking of you on our One Year Anniversary. Thank you for helping us create our dream wedding.”

Add to that list a message that says, “From the very beginning, we never aspired to have a perfect wedding—just a different one. Our wedding was truly one of a kind, and for that, our thanks goes out to you for your patience… A wedding lasts one day but we will always have memories of our beautiful wedding–thanks to you.”

In spite of the successful wedding stories to her list, Evelyn makes it a point to continue reading, researching, and studying, not just to keep up with the latest trends but also to find ways of staying innovative and creative.

What keeps them in the business? Passion for flowers, design and style, creativity, the ability to keep up with trends, good logistics, and a philosophy that spells quality and excellence.

Lily Flower Boutique also has a branch in San Francisco, California.

source : www.mb.com.ph