We’re looking forward to introducing you to sarah johns . Check out our conversation below.
Hi sarah , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Becoming a mom has brought me a kind of joy I didn’t even know was missing. It’s slowed me down in the best way – suddenly the tiniest moments feel like the most meaningful. Outside of work, I am soaking in baby giggles, morning snuggles, and watching this little human discover the world. It’s shifted my perspective and helped me find beauty in the simple, everyday things. There is a deeper sense of purpose and presence now- and that joy seeps into everything I do.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a floral and event designer and founder of Something Styled, where we create intentional, artful floral designs for weddings, events and creative brands. Wit over a decade in the industry, I’ve built a studio rooted in excellence, emotional intelligence, and elevated floral focused experiences – not fluff.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The pressure to do it all – and do it perfectly – has served its purpose. It pushed me, taught me, and stretched me. I’m releasing the need to prove anthying. Alongside that, saying yes to misaligned work out of obligation or fear has served its purpose as well. It helped me build, learn, and survive. But now, I am making space only for what fuels my heart and brand.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Over the years of running a creative business, I’ve encountered a fair share of growing pains – some deeply personal, others unexpected. One particular difficult chapter involved a business we partnered with that failed to uphold the agreement, ultimately requiring litigation. Around the same time, a former employee launched a smear campaign against our compnay and myself, misrepresenting our values and (still) misusing proprietary content.
Both experiences were painful- but they taught me how to lead with integrity even under pressure, how to defend what I have built, and how to rebuild stronger. I don’t dwell in the drama, but I don’t shy away from truth either. These moments sharpened my mission, clarified my values, and reinforced my commitment to operating with transparency, professionalism and heart.
I stopped hiding my pain the moment I realized silence was protecting everything that hurt me. When I started naming the hard things out loud I turned the pain into power and eventually it turned itself into freedom.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I stand firm on these:
1. Sustainability equals minimalism: there’s a growing trend to equate stripped down design with ethical superiority. But sustainability isn’t about shrinking beauty – it’s about being intentional with our choices, material, and impact. You can honor the planet and create breathing large scale florals. The two aren’t mutually exclusive.
2. Mutual Respect: In truth, the best work happens when there’s mutual trust and respect. Vendors aren’t servants – they’re artists, professionals, and collaborators. The most aligned events are co-created, not dictated.
3. Cheaper isn’t always better: The industry loves to glamorize budget-friendly packages and mass-produced floral solutions – but behind the scenes, that often comes at the expense of artistry, fair wages, and quality. Value and ethics can’t survive a race to the bottom.
4. Flowers aren’t just flowers: This one stings. We want your flowers to feel SOMETHING. Florals tell a story, hold emotion, and bring entire environments to life. They’re not filler- they’re a sensory experience.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes. Excellence is a reflection of who I am, not how loudly anyone applauds. Praise is nice, but purpose is louder.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.somethingstyledevents.com
- Instagram: @somethingstyledco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/somethingstyledco
Image Credits
autumn cutaia photography
carrie king photography
iphone (mountain backdrop all green adn white)
kelli christine photography
