Meet Teddy Manuel, the mastermind behind Flowers & Events™, where every event is transformed into a mesmerizing spectacle of beauty and elegance. From a childhood fascination with weddings to becoming a trailblazer in the floral design and events styling industry, Teddy’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.
This year, he adds another feather to his cap as one of the esteemed designers at the 3rd edition of the table design exhibition, showcasing his unmatched talent and creativity on a grand scale.
- Can you share with us the story of how you began your journey in the floral design and events styling industry? What inspired you to pursue this career path?
My journey into the world of floral design and event styling began with a simple fascination: weddings. I was captivated by newspaper articles detailing the intricacies of wedding decorations—the blend of flowers, drapes, and lighting that transformed spaces into enchanting scenes. This intrigue grew into a passion, steering me toward a career where I could craft these magical experiences myself.
- Could you walk us through your educational background, including any relevant studies or training that have contributed to your success in the floral design and events styling field?
I didn’t come from a traditional background in design; my initial studies were in aeronautical engineering. However, my interest in event styling led me to seek out specific training in floral design and event management. This educational mix, combining technical skills with creative pursuits, equipped me with a unique approach to event styling, blending precision with artistry.
- Starting a business requires a lot of dedication and perseverance. Can you describe some of the challenges you faced when launching a company, and how you overcame them?
Starting Teddy Manuel Flowers and Events was challenging. One of the biggest hurdles was establishing a reputation in a competitive industry. I focused on building strong relationships with clients and vendors, ensuring every event was flawlessly executed, and slowly, my reputation grew. Perseverance and dedication were key during those early days.
• Flowers & Events places a strong emphasis on quality, using only the freshest flowers and maintaining high standards. How did you establish and nurture relationships with wholesalers and importers to ensure the quality of your products?
Maintaining high standards for our floral arrangements means working closely with trusted wholesalers and importers. I spent considerable time nurturing these relationships to ensure we always received the freshest and best quality flowers. This commitment to quality has been crucial in distinguishing our services.
• Flowers & Events™ has become one of Manila’s leading floral design and events styling companies. What do you believe sets you apart from competitors in the industry?
What sets Teddy Manuel Flowers and Events apart is our commitment to personalized, breathtaking designs that truly reflect the personalities and visions of our clients. Our attention to detail and ability to tailor each event uniquely are what make us a leader in Manila’s event styling scene.
• What are some of your big plans or aspirations for the future of the company? How do you envision expanding or evolving the business in the years to come?
Looking ahead, I aspire to expand our services internationally and continue pushing the boundaries of event design. Moreover, I am committed to mentoring young enthusiasts and continuing to hone their skills through my masterclasses. By nurturing new talent, I hope to contribute to the growth and innovation of the event styling industry on a global scale.
• Building a strong team is crucial for any successful venture. Could you share insights into how you’ve assembled and nurtured your team at Flowers & Events?
Building a great team has been essential. I look for individuals who share my passion for creativity and excellence. Each team member is encouraged to bring their ideas and expertise to the table, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• You must have encountered challenging clients throughout your career. How do you typically handle difficult situations with clients, and are there any valuable lessons you’ve drawn from these experiences?
Dealing with challenging clients comes with the territory. I always approach these situations with patience and a focus on clear communication. Listening to their concerns and addressing them professionally helps turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
• Lastly, what advice would you give to someone who wants to build a successful career in floral design and events styling, based on your own journey in the industry?
To those starting in this field, my advice is to be patient and stay passionate. Learn as much as you can, not just about design, but also about managing a business and dealing with people. Most importantly, never lose the joy that creativity brings; it’s the heart of all we do in event styling.
