Kaitlyn Caramela

founder + lead designer

I'm Kaitlyn, I’m Pittsburgh's alternative florist and I'm here to change the preconceived notions about what floristry is. 

I'm the blood, sweat and tears……the grit, dirt and spirit of the floral industry and event world. 

Born and raised in the Steel City, I spent my childhood summers making bouquets out of roadside brush and gardening with my Nunnie. I never thought too much about my future but I always have been sure of what I don't want. I don't want to be average, I don't want to be small, and I don't want to conform to what other people think I should be. So that gave me about one option, to be my own boss.
Shortly after high school I was presented with the opportunity to receive formal horticultural training through secondary education at no cost. Until then, it had never occurred to me that my love of plants could quite literally blossom into a lifelong career. 

After graduating training school, I went on to do freelance landscaping design, floral event work & curriculum planning, but really found that my heart lay in floral design. While working part time at a traditional shop, I quickly recognized the need for a different type of floral designer in Pittsburgh, one that is a bit more unconventional. That's the magical moment I followed my gut with $5 in my bank account and created Steel City Florals. 

My intention with SCF was always to stand out for my versatility and distinctive off-beat designs that blurs the lines between artwork and plant work. All while being authentically myself.

What inspires my designs most is taking cues from the urban environment of Pittsburgh, the changing of seasons, unique color palettes, intentional themes, and work that pushes creative boundaries.

When I’m not slinging flowers with SCF you can catch me in my garden eating tomato’s off the vine, riding my bike through the city, and spoiling my cats Olive, Pudie, Toast and Minkah.

I can’t wait to decorate your memories. ✨