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Stephen Faitos: Inside the World of Starbright Floral Design

By NEO Magazine on March 27, 2026

by Athena Efter

Tucked within the vibrant bustle of Manhattan’s historic flower district, Starbright Floral Design stands out as far more than a typical neighborhood flower shop. It has become a destination where floral artistry meets innovation. Known for its large-scale floral installations, corporate event designs, and innovative arrangements, the company has grown into a floral destination that blends artistry, craftsmanship, and global sourcing. What began as a modest family venture has grown into a renowned floral design studio known for its breathtaking arrangements, dramatic flower walls, and large-scale installations for some of the world’s most recognizable brands.

Behind the spectacular displays of roses, orchids, and seasonal blooms lies a story of passion, risk, and reinventionBut the roots of Starbright began far more humbly.

In 1994, Nic Faitos made a decision that would change the course of his life. After building a career in finance on Wall Street, he chose to leave the fast-paced world of numbers behind to pursue something far more creative—flowers. Together with his wife, Eva Faitos, Nic had already taken the first step with a small neighborhood flower shop near their home on Long Island. But his vision was bigger.That vision led him to the heart of Manhattan’s Chelsea Flower District, an area famous for its wholesale flower markets. At the time, retail shops were virtually nonexistent there. Surrounded by wholesalers, Starbright opened its doors as the district’s only retail storefront—a bold move that quickly set it apart. What Nic built wasn’t simply a flower shop. It was an experience.

The Art of Reinvention

In the heart of Manhattan’s historic flower market, Starbright Floral Design has grown into something far greater than a traditional florist. Known for dramatic floral installations, custom arrangements, and large-scale event design, the studio has become a destination where flowers are treated not simply as décor, but as art. Visitors stepping inside the 7,000-square-foot showroom are greeted by a living gallery of color and fragrance. They are greeted by a vibrant tapestry of color—towering arrangements, lush greenery, rare blooms, and seasonal flowers sourced from across the globe. Every corner offers something new: exotic blooms, rare perennials, and creative arrangements that blur the line between floral design and fine art.

Behind the scenes, a team of about seventy employees—including five dedicated floral designers—works to bring each creation to life. The company’s reach now extends across all five boroughs of New York City and beyond, serving clients who seek both everyday beauty and unforgettable event décor.

A Family Legacy in Full Bloom

Although the company has expanded significantly since its early days, Starbright remains a family-driven enterprise. Leadership has passed to the next generation, with Nic’s son Stephen Faitos helping guide the company’s future.

The continuation of family leadership has allowed Starbright to maintain the personal touch that defined its beginnings while embracing new trends in event design and floral installations.

Floral Design for Iconic Brands

Starbright’s distinctive style has attracted a remarkable roster of clients. Global companies including Ferrari, American Express, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, L’Oreal, Delta Airlines, Google, and Pfizer have turned to the studio to create memorable floral installations for product launches, corporate events, tradeshows, and brand activations. Other notable clients throughout New York City include Bergdorf Goodman, Gramercy Park Hotel, New York Marriot Marquis, Rosa Mexicana, and Elea, and Kyma. Starbright Floral Design is also a proud supporter of non-profit organizations, such as Gilda’s Club and The Ronald McDonald House, making in-kind donations and offering discounted rates.

From glamorous product launches to public relations showcases, Starbright’s signature installations—especially its elaborate flower walls—have become sought-after design elements in the event industry. Each project is custom-crafted, ensuring that every arrangement reflects the client’s vision and identity while showcasing the studio’s signature artistry.

A Global Garden of Blooms

One of Starbright’s defining strengths lies in its extraordinary selection of flowers. While the company makes a point of sourcing from regional farms whenever possible, its network extends around the globe. Flowers arrive from renowned growers in Netherlands, South Africa, New Zealand, France, Japan, and Italy, giving designers access to rare and seasonal varieties that elevate their work. The result is a floral palette as diverse and vibrant as New York City itself.

Honors & Distinctions

Over the years, Starbright Floral Design has earned national recognition for its creativity, craftsmanship, and impact on the floral design industry. From prestigious awards to collaborations with major brands, the company’s achievements reflect decades of dedication to excellence.

Starbright was named among the Top 50 Florists in the United States by Teleflora, a distinction that recognizes exceptional floral artistry and service within the industry. The company also received the Ultimate Florist distinction from BMW, highlighting its reputation for high-end design and luxury event aesthetics.

Founder Nic Faitos has also been honored individually for his contributions to the field. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Morris Visitor Publications and the Hotel Association of New York City, recognizing his influence on floral design within the hospitality and event industries.

Starbright’s work has also been showcased at the iconic Macy’s Flower Show, one of the most celebrated floral exhibitions in the world. Being featured at this renowned event further solidifies the studio’s status as a leading creative force in floral design.

Together, these honors reflect a legacy built on artistry, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to bringing beauty into every space Starbright touches.

Stephen with his dad Nic Faitos

Where Passion Continues to Bloom

More than three decades after its founding, Starbright Floral Design continues to thrive in the city that never sleeps. From everyday bouquets to large-scale event installations, the company has become a trusted name in New York’s design and event community.

Yet at its core, the philosophy remains simple: flowers should inspire joy, beauty, and connection. And despite the scale of its operations, the heart of the company remains the same: a deep appreciation for beauty, craftsmanship, and the transformative power of flowers.

For Nic Faitos, the decision to leave Wall Street for a world of petals and fragrance may have seemed unconventional at the time. But in the Chelsea Flower District, surrounded by thousands of blossoms each day, it’s clear that sometimes the boldest moves lead to the most beautiful results. What began as a passion has grown into a legacy, proving that sometimes the most extraordinary businesses start with a simple love for something beautiful.

Starbright Floral Design is located on 140 West 26^th Street. For online orders, event services, installations, and more information, you can visit starbrighteventsnyc.com