Steven Stewart-Clark, the owner and designer of Stinko’s, grew up in rural Massachusetts and spent his youth playing in fields and forests, collecting twigs, branches, greenery and nature’s other treasures. Each day, he’d return home with a piece of natural art he’d made from his findings, and his parents would call him “Stinko” because he would be filthy, yet holding something strangely beautiful. The nickname stuck with him for life and as he began to hone his skills, he took on Stinko as an artistic name.
What prompted you to setup shop in the heart of the arts district?
Being a part of the Arts District, as well as the 1st and Main coalition, allows us to collaborate with many other talented artists to showcase their work, whether it be paintings, sculptures, theater, live musical performances or pretty much anything they desire. In addition, our new custom 4,000-square-foot venue/studio allows us to draw additional people to the Arts District for special events and private parties.
What services do you offer other than floral design?
In addition to being a full-service florist with fresh florals, greens and plants for anyone to walk in and browse, Stinko’s Las Vegas is capable of handling corporate needs and regular deliveries. Arrangements can be ordered and delivered by anyone for any occasion in addition to scheduling weekly deliveries. We are also able to handle all of a client’s wedding needs, whether it be for flowers or renting our venue and holding the wedding here. We also hold private parties, mixers, concerts and meetings in addition to our own public events, such as on each First Friday.
Who are you customers?
Our customers range from the locals who live in the Arts District to corporate accounts. Also, we have a range of people who visit when we have our various events, from dance troupes and Cirque performers to classical musicians. Our ideal customer is anyone who simply enjoys seeing beauty in a different light.
If you were to create a floral bouquet for your boss, colleague or friend, what would be in it and why?
I enjoy designing arrangements for my husband, Randee Stewart-Clark, who has a huge love for gladiolas. I love to make extreme pieces, so by using high-end gladiolas, I am able to make the arrangement extra tall and exaggerated with accents of branches, various greens, and usually a drop of another flower type or two in order to make a grand contrast.
What is your business philosophy?
Stinko’s Las Vegas was a dream for many years. We wanted to provide a location that was not only filled with the beauty and color of fresh florals, but a place where local artists can showcase their talent. We believe in supporting all artists and collaborating as one community. We also love to give back to our community and offer our location to nonprofit organizations for little to no cost.
What is the best part about doing business in Las Vegas?
The best part has been learning that the community is very well connected and has been so welcoming. From the artists to the mayor, we have enjoyed each new friend we have met and every conversation we have had. We love when folks just stop in and say hello and enjoy the beauty of our venue or even take a spin on our grand piano.
What challenges or obstacles do you face as a small-business owner?
As a small-business owner with no capital investors or ties to the corporate or local Las Vegas community, we have to work extremely hard to get our name out to the public. Many times, our customers are initially a bit confused about our venue also being a full-service florist. We have thousands of followers spread across social media and spend a lot of time simply speaking to everyone we know about what Stinko’s has to offer.
What’s the best business advice you’ve received?
If you are truly following your dream for the right reasons, things will always work out. Being genuine, honest and approachable will expand your horizons beyond measure. Nothing explodes overnight, but with hard work, dedication and honest business practices, you can build your customer base and meet many wonderful people.