About
I started growing flowers when I was 7 years old. I especially loved Zinnias and would enter them in the Dixie Classic Fair in Winston Salem every year, and most years I received a blue ribbon for them.
My love for plants spurred from there so when I went to college at North Carolina State University I decided to study Landscape Architecture, Botany, and received my bachelors degree in Horticultural Science. Since receiving my degree, I have worked in Chesapeake, Virginia, at White’s Nursery and Greenhouse growing Mums, and Old Town Club, here in Winston Salem, doing other horticultural work.
“I love the whole process of growing, arranging, and sharing with others my passion – no two days at this job are ever the same!”
It’s always a thrill to discuss a client’s hopes and ideas for their special event and then translate that into something beyond what they expected on the day of their wedding! I enjoy using lots of interesting textures and color combinations in my floral arrangements. I never limit myself to a specific design recipe and my floral arrangements are based on feeling and vision rather than by numbers.
My life pretty much revolves around flowers. I’m either at the country club, playing in the dirt, in the cutting garden, or in the design studio designing flowers for a wedding or event.
But, on the rare occasion I’m not doing something flower related, I can be found renovating my new home, walking my German Shepherd, Emma, riding my bike, babysitting my little niece Zoey, or even doing a little traveling!
Sophisticated Florals began as ‘Karadzhova’s Specialty Cuts’ when Winston Salem’s Cobblestone Farmers Market was originally on the cobblestones by Krankies Coffee.
Unfortunately, the greenhouse I previously worked at was heavily chemical-dependent, so I was drawn to do something more sustainable in my own business. This led me to growing my own flowers and plants, which I began selling at the Cobblestone Market during the growing season. Winston Salem’s Cobblestone Farmer’s Market has been ranked as one of the top farmer’s markets in the country, focusing on sustainable and organic produce and products. Since our inception in 2009, our Farmer’s Market offerings have expanded as well as our business!
In late 2012, we became known as Sophisticated Florals when we expanded to include floral design for weddings and special events.
I love Winston Salem and have been in the City of the Arts all my life. My parents have lived in the same house since I was born, which is also where I grow all my flowers for market – right in their backyard! My parents have been an integral part of my success in growing flowers for market and my Mom is my right hand in the wedding flowers business!
Floral design has been a growing passion of mine over the past several years and I have developed a distinct style for myself in the event and wedding industry. I consult on all facets of design, whether a lavish gala or intimate soiree, where the client and I will work closely for a seamless, stellar, and memorable affair!
I feel I have truly found my passion in the floral world and love creating a new “floral experience” for each client I work with.
When you work with Sophisticated Florals, you’re working with a small team fueled by bringing natural beauty to your special event or wedding!
In need of a full service florist providing organically grown flowers for your wedding, private event, and for sale at local Farmers Markets?
Contact us today for more information!