We had the good fortune of connecting with Delmar Flournoy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Delmar, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve always wanted to put a product out that was like putting a piece of me out into the world. Something that I could design on my own, every single detail and bring to life has always been a dream of mine. I’ve been blessed enough to have been able to do that in different ways, not only with my art and product line through Flournoy Studios but also with flipping houses. Taking an undervalued property, fixing it up, tearing down walls, designing and giving it an entirely new look has been so rewarding. I was also able to use my creative freedom with my studio space, Evoke Studios LA that I created with my business partner Lauren. We were able to transform a space into an immersive production studio with five different themes. My thought process with these different ventures was to bring an idea to life in a fun and creative way that would hopefully resonate with the World. Flournoy Studios and Flournoy Realty are more than just home fragrance and decor, it’s creative expression, it’s art, it’s even spiritual!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I feel creativity pulsing through my veins, it’s apart of my DNA. Maybe it’s because I’m a Pisces? Who knows! I’ve always felt different than others because I knew my path wouldn’t look like most of my family or friends. For example, I’ll hear a song for the first time and come up with a whole visual and creative direction together in my head. I’ve always known I was meant to work in the creative field, it’s simply who I am.

My artwork and home fragrance and decor items that make up Flournoy Studios are simply an extension of me. I hand-pour candles that I have curated and designed to help you take a moment for yourself and also fill your space with a wonderful scent. Also, I create high textured, “glam” pieces that are truly show stopping. Whether it’s my use of diamond dust or Swarovski crystal, the piece will catch your eye. It definitely has not been the easiest thing to create a brand from the ground up, but it also hasn’t been too hard. It’s basically tedious tasks to accomplish in order to get to the big picture, literally!

So far, I’m most proud of my 22 piece solo art show that I had in 2019. That is where I officially launched Flournoy Studios and put my art and candles out to the world! Also, I’m proud of my house flips that I began doing two years ago. I gained an immense amount of experience although not as fruitful as I’d hoped I’m still looking forward to getting more into the real estate world! I began flipping houses because of my love for home decor in general. I’ve always wanted to design and restructure a house and thats exactly what I did!

I’ve learned the importance of making the most informed decisions possible. Doing the research first and also knowing that you can’t trust anyone in the business world. You have to look out for yourself, learn how to ask the right questions and stand up for yourself if something doesn’t make sense or feel right. Just because you are passionate about a project doesn’t mean it will automatically be successful. Passion only takes you so far.

My support system, family and friends, have been a huge part of not only my success but to help me maintain that motivation and drive to keep going. Whether it’s been a word of encouragement, buying one of my products, a shared post, or just putting that good energy out there for me into the Universe. It’s different when you have a ton of people rooting for you, that push is there to go even harder!

I want the world to know that someone like me can visualize, dream, create and bring whatever it is you want to fruition. You are given that vision and dream for a reason, so go after that and bring it to life the best way you know how!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a huge museum/art gallery enthusiast. When friends come to visit, we’re going to the Getty, LACMA, The Broad, and getting all those creative juices flowing! One of my favorite restaurants here is Taisho in Sherman Oaks. My dear roomie/wifey put me on to that spot. It’s a must try if you’re ever in the valley. There are so many great places to eat here in LA: Gracias Madre, The Little Door, Mainro (it’s an experience), just to name a few. Oh, and there’s this amazing Thai spot called Kao Cafe that never misses. Kai Ramen which is actually across the street from Kao are my go to’s.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate this to my SOUL TRIBE! My family and friends that have my back and support me no matter what. I appreciate them so so much!

Website: www.flournoystudios.com

Instagram: delmarmaurice

Youtube: Flournoy Studios

Other: Business IGs: @flournoystudios and @evokestudiosla

Image Credits
Pink Room Photos: Photography: Sara Lee Saleh Creative Director: Delmar Maurice Artwork Photos: Photography: Eva Lotta Freden Creative Director: Delmar Maurice Candle Image:Photography: Safalena Productions Creative Director: Delmar Maurice

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