We had the good fortune of connecting with Steph Coulter and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Steph, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting Lily in June was a journey rooted in passion and the desire to create meaningful, beautiful experiences. The thought process was driven by two core elements: a deep love for design and a personal mission to infuse life’s significant moments with unforgettable beauty.
Firstly, my passion for design and floral artistry was the spark. I saw an opportunity to bring a unique perspective to wedding and event design, blending traditional elements with innovative, personalized touches. This passion was about more than just arranging flowers; it was about curating stories and creating atmospheres that resonate deeply with individuals and their guests.
Secondly, I realized the immense joy and fulfillment it gave me from being part of people’s special days. There’s a magic in transforming a space to reflect a couple’s love story or an individual’s vision. It was about making those once-in-a-lifetime moments even more magical and memorable for my clients.
The drive to start Lily in June was also about filling a gap I saw in the market. I wanted to offer a service that was not just about providing decor but about creating cohesive, beautifully designed experiences that seamlessly integrate with meticulous planning and management.
Moreover, Lily in June was born from a desire to build something of my own – a place where creativity meets professionalism, where clients’ visions are heard and brought to life, and where every event is a reflection of our commitment to excellence and detail.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Starting Lily in June wasn’t easy, but it’s been a journey filled with valuable lessons and immense growth. What sets us apart is our focus on not just designing events, but curating stories for life’s sweetest moments. Each project is a unique blend of our client’s vision and our creative touch, making every moment unforgettable.
I’m most proud of the depth and connection our work brings. It’s not always about the aesthetics; it’s about sharing these experiences that resonate so deeply with our clients. Overcoming the early challenges, especially in valuing my time and expertise, was key. This industry demands not just creativity but meticulous planning and execution.
The biggest lesson learned is the importance of adaptability and continuous evolution, both creatively and in business. Lily in June is more than a brand; it’s a testament to turning challenges into opportunities, to creating experiences that celebrate life and human connections. We’re not just planning events; we’re commemorating life’s most precious moments with elegance and passion.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
That would really depend on the friend…
Day 1 & 2: City Charm
– Bungalow Heights: We’d start with a trip down memory lane at Bungalow Heights. I’m proud of my contributions there, and it’s a spot that’s close to my heart.
– Wicklow Heights: For some of the best espresso martinis in town, this is our spot. It’s a must for anyone who appreciates a good cocktail.
– Crawfish Tour: Depending on the season, we’d hit up my favorite crawfish joints around Houston. It’s messy, fun, and quintessentially Southern.
Day 3 & 4: A Touch of Culture
– Houston Museums: We’d spend a day soaking in culture at the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts. Both places never fail to inspire and fascinate me.
Day 5-7: Countryside Serenity
– Exploration: My heart belongs to the quieter life now, so we’d head north. Navasota’s charming downtown is perfect for leisurely strolls and unique shopping experiences.
– Lily in June: Of course, a visit to my shop in Navasota is a must. It’s where my creativity comes to life, and I’d love to share that part of my world.
– Relax and Unwind: We’d spend the rest of our time enjoying the slower pace of countryside living, perhaps with some local dining and just taking in the scenic views.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, my family deserves the utmost credit. Their unwavering love and support have been the foundation of everything I’ve achieved. They’ve believed in me from the very start, offering encouragement, understanding, and patience as I navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship.
A significant shoutout goes to Josh Harris, my former boss in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Working over a decade under his mentorship sculpted me into the businesswoman I am today. Josh instilled in me that passion, persistence, and hard work are the essential ingredients for success. His lessons went beyond professional guidance; they were life lessons that I carry in every aspect of my business.
Mandi, my right-hand woman, has been instrumental in bringing Lily in June to life. Our years of working together before Lily in June built a foundation of trust and understanding that’s rare to find. She is the organizer, the taskmaster, the rule setter, and the perfect business partner. Her precision, dedication, and commitment are the balancing forces to my creativity and vision.
Last but certainly not least, my best friends deserve a world of thanks. Their encouragement from the beginning, their frequent orders, and their unwavering support in my every move have been a source of strength and inspiration. They’ve been my cheerleaders, my sounding boards, and my reality checks.
Each of these individuals has left an indelible mark on my journey, and Lily in June is as much their achievement as it is mine.
Website: www.LilyinJune.com
Instagram: @lily_in_june
Twitter: @Lily in June
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lilyinjune?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Luis Margarin Malae Talley Caroline Fontenot Sweet Nest Photography Two Pair Photography Kya Reign Photography Kemberley Chet Photography