Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Ruiz
Hi Karina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was working for an event company in Austin when I first introduced to the decor and floral elements of throwing an event. I began to take more of an interest in the set up component and closely shadowed the event designer, jumping on any instruction I was given. I took note of the meticulous details they were after and the impression all of those combined efforts left on the client. I was enamored and excited by the w0rk. It was touching to see the effect this had on their clients. I would leave an event absolutely exhausted, so very proud of the contribution, and eagerly anticipating the next event.
Years later, in Houston, I got hired for a few friends’ weddings. That feeling rushed back in. I felt content in my work. I started working as a freelancer afterwards. I spent time in distribution warehouses, bridal conventions, online workshops, participating in music festivals, taking notes in hotel lobbies and restaurants; anything that would expand my knowledge of the craft and industry. I am continually driven by the work and I have a great appreciation for the process. How could I combine the mesmerizing effect of nature with high fashion art? How could I engineer a mechanism to put them into a shape that would others feeling just as inspired? I finally put on a name on Hunnie Pie Project in 2022.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Flowers can have a mesmerizing effect. Design is my creative release. Adding the business element was initially tricky because I felt I needed to create something people would buy. Time taught me that if I am not inspired by the item I was making, how could I then expect to draw others that would appreciate what it was I was bringing to the table? I have since leaned into what it is that inspires me. I reminded myself why I got into this. I needed to think less about making a product I could vend and more about creating something that left me with more ideas; more iterations of a design using the same materials. The more I have embraced what it is I have most enjoyed creating, the more I have discovered my niche in the industry.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I started this business with interest and naiveté. I really had no idea all of the hats I would have to wear running a business on my own but had a faith in the idea that still leaves me a bit surprised at myself. I have come to thank my past self for trying many things; for learning what does not work or what I did not enjoy creating. Time has been the way that I have carved at the block to discover my niche and where I aim to be. I started getting hired by different style couples. I gained so much from those projects. Working on a wedding is incredible. The personalities of a couple adds challenge to the design. I felt honored they felt Hunnie Pie Project was the floral design company that could execute what they had in mind. I am grateful for the trust. I think Hunnie Pie Project has become known for flexibility. Nothing is off limits. I would love to continue working for couples who have plenty of character they would like represented at their events as well as companies looking for designs that add pop to their event, office, lobby or storefront. I find myself inspired by adding unlikely textiles providing more edge to the design. I feel proud that over the years, as I have embraced the style I prefer to see, I have in turn identified my market.
What does success mean to you?
Success is fulfillment. After every project, I assess what I gained from the experience. Success for me is not only doing the craft for the pay but remaining in a constant state of play. Play leads to progress. Trying things out in the studio, not all work gets represented but abilities are uncovered. I feel satiated.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hunniepieproject.co
- Instagram: @hunniepieproject
