Hillary Allbritton

Local List

• Favorite Mexican Restaurant: Salsa Verdes
• Favorite Massage: Spathénée
• Favorite Chiropractor: Whole Health Clinic
• Favorite Beach Spot: Burnout

Elizabeth Grace Floral is a boutique studio creating full-service floral experiences for weddings, corporate events, brand activations and editorial. Former corporate marketing/software professional, owner and creative director Hillary Allbritton took the leap to becoming a floral designer and entrepreneur when she founded Elizabeth Grace Floral in 2019. She lives in Palos Verdes with her two teenage daughters, Hadley Elizabeth and Avery Grace, who inspired the name and the heart of the brand.

Tell us about your business.

At Elizabeth Grace Floral, everything we do is rooted in the values that mean the most to me: family, good manners and always going the extra mile. Growing up in the South, I learned that Southern hospitality is more than just a phrase; it’s about treating people with care, respect and a personal touch. That’s the “SoCal Southern” approach we bring to every one of our clients, ensuring your special moments are treated with the same love and attention I would give to my own family.

What does “SoCal Southern” look like in practice?

It’s refined design with a gracious spirit, elevated florals, thoughtful details, seamless communication and the kind of hospitality that makes clients and guests feel genuinely cared for.

What inspired you to start your business?

During a difficult season in my personal life, I needed a path that would provide financial independence and flexibility while allowing me to show my daughters what’s possible through hard work and creativity. Designing florals for friends’ events opened my eyes to how I could blend artistry, hospitality and entrepreneurship into a career that felt deeply fulfilling, and that became Elizabeth Grace Floral.

Whom do you credit for your success?

My parents both took the road less traveled. My father left a successful career at Goldman Sachs to start his own investment management business when I was young. My mother went back to medical school and graduated as I was completing my college education. They modeled that hard work, sacrifice and drive are some of the most important keys to success.

What belief about yourself did you have to let go so you could become the woman you are today?

Growing up, I thought being successful meant a high-powered job and a big salary. Today I know that success is about loving what I do, being present for my partner and daughters, all while growing my business that doesn’t tie me to a desk or hours set by someone else. Allowing myself to embrace entrepreneurship and my creative voice changed everything.

How can we support other women in business?

Refer them, hire them and say their names in the rooms they can’t access yet. Share resources, make introductions, leave reviews and celebrate wins publicly.

What strategies help you avoid burnout?

I make a point to schedule rest days. The floral event business is incredibly labor-intensive, and if I’m not intentional about blocking days that involve zero work time, the burnout can creep in before you know it.

Is there a myth you’d like to rewrite for the next generation of women in business?

That success requires being “effortless.” Real success is intentional, prepared and supported. There’s nothing effortless about excellence. And don’t be afraid to speak publicly about your failures. Perceived perfection is difficult to relate to, but sharing your struggles builds connection and a support network.

What’s your go-to move when everything feels like it’s falling apart?

Breathe, triage and communicate. When working with fresh product, something will invariably go wrong. If I allow myself to become frozen in the breakdown, I wouldn’t be able to deliver for my clients at the level of excellence they deserve and expect.

Any new projects on the horizon?

We’re expanding corporate and hospitality partnerships across Los Angeles by actively building relationships with hotels to become the florist of record for all their weekly floral services.

Photographed by Jeffrey Fiterman