She envisioned the iconic arch at Rotary Trail and the florist’s imagination bedecked the iron scaffolds with an immense and breathtaking adornment of colorful blooms.

And as people bought into the craze, tulip bulbs became so expensive that they were used as money—with people even trading their homes for a handful of bulbs—until the market crashed.

Awbrey Golden and Ross Saxon both grew up in Birmingham—he, in Hoover then Auburn, and she, at Indian Springs then Birmingham-Southern—but the two never crossed paths.

Clusters of delicate petals and stately blossoms nestled among wild, lacy flora and arching vines were thoughtfully placed in arrangements around the light-filled bungalow in anticipation of little Addie’s first birthday celebration.

Walk into Wild Things Flowers & Curiosities in Homewood and a sweet, botanical aroma fills the air; great music, both trendy and timeless, establishes a laid-back feel; a selection of artisanal popcorn and wine greets visitors; and the chic shop’s gifts and curiosities, beautifully curated and displayed, are an invitation to explore.

In our inaugural Q&A series introducing you to the team at Wild Things Flowers & Curiosities, we are highlighting the talented founder, owner, and lead florist of the shop: Carolyn Chen. She talks about her idyllic childhood in Chicago, developing her singular floral-arranging style, launching her own business, how she likes to spend her free time, and more …