We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kathy Shin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kathy below.
Kathy, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Growing up in Korea, where classrooms brimmed with over 60 students, I often felt like a whisper in the background. As the youngest daughter in a culture that placed more value on sons, I became known as ‘wallpaper’—quiet, unnoticed, always there but rarely seen.
After moving to the United States for high school, and later attending ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, I began carving out my place in the world through art. Stepping into the commercial art and entertainment industry, I was often the youngest in the room—and the only one who looked like me. It pushed me to speak up, to stand tall in spaces that didn’t always feel built for me, and to trust that my differences were actually my strength. I learned that confidence blooms through honesty, and connection begins when we show up as we truly are.
On a personal level, my journey through infertility and the life-changing gift of adopting three children from overseas reshaped how I see the world. It reminded me that ‘different’ isn’t something to hide—it’s something that connects. My father used to say, “A smile is the best tool you can have,” and I’ve carried that with me. Kindness, openness, and a sincere heart will always go further than perfection.
What I’ve come to believe is this: we all carry insecurities. But when we lead with vulnerability, we invite others in—and that’s where the real magic begins.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m a floral artist with roots in editorial illustration and commercial art. For many years, I worked with leading creative firms, where I learned how to tell visual stories with intention, texture, and emotion. That foundation still shapes how I approach floristry today.
After moving to South Orange County, life shifted. I became a mother through adoption, and for a time, my creative energy was poured entirely into nurturing my children and building a home full of warmth and care. As they grew, a quiet longing returned—to create, to express, to build something of my own again.
With the encouragement of a dear friend, I took a leap and launched NaRae Flowers. The name carries deep personal meaning, and the private studio quickly became more than just a creative outlet—it became a space for connection, storytelling, and reflection.
Floristry, to me, is never just about flowers. It’s about honoring life’s turning points—both joyful and tender. Whether I’m designing for a celebration or sending comfort in a difficult moment, I see myself as a quiet messenger, delivering beauty with meaning.
What I cherish most is when clients tell me my work made them feel seen, loved, or lifted. One said, “This business is totally rooted in goodness,” and I carry that close. That’s what I hope for: to create pieces that speak from the heart—and leave something lasting behind.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three qualities have quietly shaped everything in my journey:
Diligence. It’s the quiet work behind the scenes—the daily commitment of time, energy, and heart. It’s showing up again and again, even when no one’s watching. Growth rarely arrives overnight, but with patience and consistency, things begin to bloom in their own perfect rhythm.
Communication. The art of truly seeing others. It’s not about changing people, but about meeting them where they are—listening deeply, offering presence, and speaking with honesty. Even when imposter syndrome whispers, your voice matters. Small, sincere connections often become the most meaningful bridges.
Passion. The heartbeat behind it all. When you pour your soul into your work, it shows—there’s a certain magic that can’t be faked. Passion brings light, purpose, and warmth to everything you create. Without it, the path feels dim. With it, even the hard days glow with possibility.
To those just beginning: stay devoted to your path, lead with truth, and let your passion be the thread that carries you forward. The beauty will follow.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Yeon, my best friend and longtime creative partner, has been a guiding light in my journey. We met in college and later worked together—she as a design manager, and me as a freelance illustrator. Now the owner of Kawa Flowers in Oregon, Yeon was the one who looked at me early on and said, “You already have everything you need to be a floral artist.”
Her words gave me the courage to begin. Time spent with her in Oregon was the final nudge, and her encouragement still inspires me to keep growing.
And behind it all is my husband—my partner in both life and business—who has taught me the quiet power of resilience and consistency. His love and belief in me have carried me further than words can say.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://naraeflowers.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naraeflowers/
Image Credits
These are my own photos.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
