Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystal Alston.
Hi Krystal, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Rose & Sage Decor, LLC actually began as a birthday gift from my husband in 2021. At the time, we were planning our wedding, and I was facing intense burnout in my career and struggling with my mental health due to it. I was constantly wanting more for my professional life, but I wasn’t finding that. My husband and I would plot my “escape” from my job and during one of those conversations, Rose & Sage Decor was born. He asked me “If you had your own business, what would it be called?” I told him I’d name it Rose & Sage Decor, “Rose” being our daughter’s middle name, “Sage” symbolizing wisdom and calm, and “Decor” just because I wanted it to be something creative. A few weeks later, he surprised me by registering the LLC in that exact name and having multiple logos professionally designed for me. What I thought was a simple conversation, ended up leading to the catalyst I needed to become an entrepreneur. But at the time, I didn’t quite know what I wanted to do.
It wasn’t until I designed the florals for our wedding that something clicked for me. I realized, this is exactly what I want Rose & Sage Decor to be. I’ve always had a creative side, even while pursuing a career in science, but working with florals unlocked a different part of me. It was the process of combining textures, colors, and stems that felt both artistic and therapeutic. Seeing our wedding come to life made me realize I didn’t just enjoy floral design, I was passionate about it. I didn’t want to stop at creating for my own wedding, I wanted to create for others too.
When we moved to Atlanta in 2022, I continued working in forensics, but my heart was elsewhere. For two years, I built Rose & Sage Decor quietly. I would design gift arrangements for friends and family, pick up small projects, and do a ton of research. I spent a lot of time testing the waters, but in the last year, I’ve gone all in. I’ve truly been pouring myself into my craft through networking with other professionals, refining my designs, investing in my business, and making my presence known online (@rosesagedecor on IG and roseandsageflorals.com). And that work has started to speak for itself. I’ve had the honor of designing for weddings, corporate events, brands, creative workshops, and intimate celebrations. Now, every step I take is about positioning Rose & Sage Decor as a trusted name in luxury floral design—where beauty, intention, and experience come together to leave a lasting impression. And honestly, I’m just getting started.
While my husband and daughter are my greatest motivation, it’s actually my fears that drive me the most. I know that sounds unusual, but when something scares me, it’s usually a sign that I need to lean in and do it. Through that mindset, I’ve been on a a journey of rediscovering myself through creativity and purpose. I know that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be and I’m excited to see where I’m going.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s part of the beauty of owning a business. Balancing the demands of being a wife, a mother to a young child, and working full-time made it challenging to find consistent time and energy to pour into my business. I’d design late at night, squeeze in consultations during work breaks, and dedicate my weekends to client work. I would sacrifice sleep (and when I’m busy I still do) to keep things moving forward successfully in my business.
Because I didn’t attend floral design school, everything I know has come through hands-on experience, research, and trial and error. I had to teach myself not only the creative side like design styles and floral mechanics, but also the business side like pricing, marketing, event logistics, and client communication. I eventually began investing in courses from other professionals, which helped sharpen my skills and confidence.
One of the ongoing challenges has been visibility and growth. Atlanta is full of incredibly talented creatives, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming to figure out where you fit. But every time I’ve grounded myself in why I started, my passion for florals and the joy of designing meaningful spaces, I’ve been reminded that there’s room for what I uniquely offer. That mindset has helped me push forward and continue building something that feels both intentional and authentic. I truly believe in the beauty and experience I offer.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Before launching Rose & Sage Decor, I spent the majority of my professional career as a Forensic Drug Chemist. It might seem like a big leap, but that background taught me how to be incredibly meticulous and thorough; skills I now bring into every floral project I take on.
As a floral designer, I specialize in weddings, corporate events, and creative experiences like bloom bars and hands-on workshops. I love dreaming up beautiful designs, but I’m just as committed to making sure the entire experience, from the first conversation to the final install, feels thoughtful, seamless, and elevated.
What sets me apart is the way I merge creativity with structure. I’m always anticipating my clients’ needs and finding ways to bring their vision to life with care and professionalism. Whether I’m working with a bride, a brand, or a corporate team, I want them to feel confident that every detail is covered and that they’re in good hands.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to stop waiting until I feel “ready.” For a long time, I thought I needed more experience, more time, or more validation before I could take the next step. But the truth is, clarity comes from action. I’ve learned that even if I’m scared or unsure, I can still move forward and figure it out along the way. That mindset has changed everything for me, both personally and professionally. Seeing where I was one year ago compared to now? It amazes me everyday and excites me for what the future has to hold.
Pricing:
- Weddings – Starting at $6,000
- Special Occasions and Corporate Events – Starting at $3,000
- Permanent Installations – Starting at $900
- Bloom Bars & Workshops – Starting at $500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.roseandsageflorals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosesagedecor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roseandsageflorals
Image Credits
Terri Baskin (@terribaskin)
Neliz Photography (@nelizphotography)
Reel Deal Khalil Productions (@rdk_productions)
