For Floral and Event Designer, Merolyn Rodrigues of HTTS Floral and Event Design, Faith and Flowers are inextricably intertwined.
Merolyn’s love for flowers first bloomed during her childhood. Growing up on the beautiful island of Antigua, she recalls tending to her mother’s garden beneath a warm Caribbean sun.
“Her flower garden extended along the front of the house and featured at least 20 varieties of colored roses,” she shares. “The kaleidoscope of colors, fragrances, and textures captivated me, sowing the seeds for my future career.”
Since those early days toiling in her mother’s garden, Merolyn’s adoration of flowers extended beyond their beauty. Flowers represented God’s nature: the essence of purity, divinity, and love. This foundation plays a key role in the ethos of her business today.
Merolyn’s early infatuation with florals led her to pursue an associate’s degree in horticulture in Guyana, South America. She then traveled to the United States to pursue mentorship by some of the industry’s most esteemed professionals, including Michael Gaffney, the NY Flower School, Preston Bailey, David Tutera, and John Emmanuel.
Her education and training would lead to an unexpected entry into the wedding industry when a young couple at church asked her to create flowers for their bridal party.
“I had one week to prepare,” Merolyn recalls. “[But] their intimate wedding turned out beautifully, and soon, other couples in the church began requesting bouquets for their special day. What started as a small gesture quickly evolved into a reputation for crafting trendy, lush bridal bouquets.”
Just as momentum was building, the world faced an unexpected challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a difficult and isolating time. Instead of giving up on her dreams, Merolyn leaned into her Faith and leaped into the unknown.
“HTTS Floral and Event Design was born during the pandemic, a time when being confined at home inspired me to channel my creativity,” she explains. “Designing beautiful floral arrangements became a way to stay productive and reconnect with my lifelong love for flowers, a passion I have nurtured since childhood. My deep reverence for God’s nature and the beauty of flowers was an additional inspiration. I believe each bloom is a masterpiece in its own right, and I am on a mission to showcase its splendor in the most breathtaking way possible.”
Merolyn’s enchantment with flowers continues to fuel her inspiration today.
Based in Manhattan, New York, her full-service floral and event design company is known for meticulously handcrafted bouquets and inspired event decor. They also offer balloon decor, custom candles, draping, floor wrapping, and officiant services.
“Every piece we craft is infused with a unique blend of creativity, passion, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every event is nothing short of extraordinary,” Merolyn shares proudly.
Keep scrolling to learn more about HTTS Floral and Event Design in our exclusive Q&A with owner, Merolyn Rodrigues.
- Owner: Merolyn Rodrigues
- Company: HTTS Floral and Event Design
- Blog Series: Behind The Brand
Can you tell us more about the meaning behind your company’s name, “HTTS Floral and Event Design”?
Our company’s logo and name carry biblical meaning and significance. The circle represents the unbreakable bond that we have with the Heavenly Father. The orchids are my favorite flowers and represent beauty, love, and strength. They symbolize the refinement, luxury, and rare beauty of the designs we create.
At HTTS Floral and Event Design, we are Heir To The Seed, God’s promise to Abraham and his descendants. Galatians 3:29. The crown represents our connection to royalty, leadership, and position of authority. It conveys our sense of prestige inheritance and the legacy passed down through generations.
God is the owner of our business, and I am the CEO of the business. Therefore, we flourish in everything that we do. We currently experience expansion and anticipate ongoing development, which is represented by the leaves on the crown.
(Above: Keepsake silk bridal bouquets by HTTS Floral and Event Design | Model @_ladygrace1)
What’s your favorite flower?
My favorite flower is the dragon orchid, also known as Drakaea. It is a fascinating and rare flower with an otherworldly beauty. Its shape resembles a tiny dragon in flight, with delicate, arching petals that extend like wings and a lip that mimics a curled tail. The intricate details and bold patterns on the petals make it unique and rare. Its design is a reminder of how extraordinary and imaginative nature can be.
Are you predicting any specific floral trends for 2025?
My prediction of floral trends for 2025 is one where floral designers are embracing innovative approaches by incorporating a diverse array of stems previously unexplored. This experimentation highlights the unique beauty of each bloom, presenting them in the most breathtaking ways. By showcasing every stem’s splendor, designers are crafting arrangements that captivate and inspire.
What does being a member of MunaLuchi’s Coterie mean to you?
Munaluchi represents more than just a community to me; it embodies a transformative journey for my business. Being part of this esteemed group offers unparalleled opportunities to learn from and collaborate with top-tier professionals in luxury wedding design. The collective expertise within the Coterie is instrumental in elevating my services, ensuring I deliver an exceptional experience to my clients. As a Coterie member, I aim to deepen my industry knowledge, foster meaningful relationships, and contribute to the community’s legacy of excellence.
For other florists trying to break into the wedding industry, what advice would you give them?
Reflecting on my journey in floral design, I would advise newcomers to stay true to themselves and cultivate their unique artistic vision. To embrace their creativity and let it shine through the designs. Invest time in educating yourself to become the best in your field. Investing in an effective system that will allow smooth and effective operations. I would encourage newcomers to enjoy the journey and to remember that your individuality is your greatest asset.
Looking for more inspiring Behind The Brand stories?
Click here.
