Studio Visit - Kimberly Rose
Napa Valley native, Kimberly Rose runs her floral design business from a home-based studio behind a sweet 1930's house in Napa she shares with her husband, David (who also works from home) and their two young sons, Emmett and Marlon. Recently, I spent a lovely sunny morning in her studio.
How did you get your start in floral design? I used to work at a store in San Francisco that would get amazing florals delivered every week and I was so intrigued by them. Having a background in art, I thought the idea of being able to use my hands to create sculptural floral designs would be a good fit. I decided to apply to different floral designers looking for help. An SF based florist took me on and taught me so much. I eventually started working for other people around the Bay Area and then eventually created my own business.
How would you describe your style? Textural, somewhat structured. I like to try different things to keep things interesting. I hope that my designs are always evolving.
What is your favorite time of year and what materials do you like to work with during that season? I love spring. Flowering branches are so pretty (I love working with branches) and there are so many different varieties of delicate flowers to choose from at that time.
What do you find easiest and hardest about having a home-based studio? It's great to be able to walk out of my house and right into my studio, no travel time. Another thing I enjoy, is to be able to take a lunch break with my family and get quick visits from them throughout the day. I actually love having a home-based studio for the same reason it can be hard. It can be challenging when my kids/husband come in and visit while I'm working because it can be hard to get things done with the distraction of my family.
How has motherhood changed your approach to design and your business? I have come to realize that my time is very important to me and where I put that time and energy is important. I now only take on business/jobs that I really enjoy the look of and have fun making. Having the opportunity to be creative while supporting my family is such a gift. I want to make sure I am spending my time doing what I love, otherwise it's not worth it to me.
Some of Kim's artwork in her living room.
what are some of your favorite places to visit in Napa? We live pretty close to the Oxbow so we end up going there a lot. They have a lot of affordable good quality food options and can be quick and easy at the same time. I've also started doing a lot of kid friendly things lately like going to Connelly Ranch to see the animals with my kids or going for walks and to different parks around Napa.