Today we’d like to introduce you to Takaya Sato
Hi TAKAYA , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My love for floral design began over twenty years ago while training as a designer at my father’s flower and event shop in Japan. After earning my degree at the Japanese Floral School, I spent almost three years in Tokyo working at the flower market, where I learned about the immense world of the Japanese flower industry.
A trip to the vibrant NYC as an assistant designer completely changed my life plan and after a while, I found myself designing for some of the most elite events hosted by international, New York City-based companies. I later became the Creative Director for a prestigious floral and event design brand, I received multiple publications and I earned the title of Master Florist from The NYC Flower School.
When COVID hit NYC brutally in 2020, it brought a lot of reflections and in 2021, my wife and I decided to move to the enchanting city of Charleston, drawn to its beautiful French Quarter—an area that reminded us of Europe. Charleston felt like the perfect place to bring our dreams to life, to finally open the doors to our long-desired firm, TAKAYASATO.COM. A luxury floral service and event design company, offering elegant floral arrangements, antiques, and home décor items, where every creation was infused with passion and artistry, much like the city itself.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey was smooth and full of satisfaction. The real challenge, began when I opened my own firm. Everything started to depend on me and my team, with all the pros and cons that come with it. Taking care of a family and establishing a brand in a new city is no joke, and finding time to read a book or travel has recently become a luxury. But I am always a positive spirit, and I can’t wait to see what’s ahead for me on my path this time.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a creative soul. I love art and creating. Flowers or botanical elements are always involved in my creations. My style is unique and experimental, where East meets West. I constantly seek new ideas, materials, colors, textures, music, and stimulation to create something new and avant-garde. You can see this part of me in my personal portfolio or in my studio, full of projects and ideas for an exhibition. This aspect of me has always influenced my work, and I believe it’s what makes me unique. In my shop, you can find elegant and unique floral arrangements, antiques, and one-of-a-kind objects from around the world. I am a kind person with a poetic vein. What am I proud of? Definitely all the experiences I’ve had in my life and what I’ve been able to achieve.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I have a few:
1- When you work on something, do not get stuck in the details—you can fix them later. Do not stop, keep working on it. First, create something as close to your idea as possible.
2-Always stay positive. Pessimism never helps and always ruins everything.
3-Be open-minded, always craving for new stimulation.
4-Take care of your body and stay under the sun when times get tough.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://takayasato.com
- Instagram: takayasato_floraldecor
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TakayaSatoFloralDecor
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/takaya-sato-a1139811
