Starting your own business can feel pretty isolating. You’re running the show and need to figure out what the heck to do and how to get it all done. And while all of the burdens and responsibilities can be a heavy weight on your shoulders, please know this…you are not alone.
We reached out to fellow sola wood florists for their top notch advice for wood florists who are either beginning their entrepreneurial journey or those who have been there for quite some time. Here is what they shared:
Tips on Getting Started
“Start your email list from DAY 1. Begin collecting emails from those who buy from you, see you at markets/shows, etc. Growing your email list using one of the free options if price is an issue will pay off especially if you locally focused but even if you are not. You own this and no glitches on social media can take that away. Email may not sound sexy and cool anymore but it works especially for a lot of our target market. People do check their emails and you can absolutely sell from your emails.” - Jennifer Angle, Wood & Word Blooms
“Have a process to track your inventory and receipts from the start! This will save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Really think big of what you want from this journey and dive in with both feet. If you have systems, you will go far and be able to enjoy the journey as you grow.” - Melissa Cassel, Zinnia & Birch
“Price the fresh flower florists in your area. Make sure your not cheating yourself. Also realize that if you are shipping to different states the cost of living could be considerably different than where you are. Being in the south this is a fairly common for me. I price fairly but competitively. You will burn out very quickly getting business solely based on your prices.” - April Campbell, Forever Blooms Wood Decor
“Know your taxes. It’s vital that you understand how business tax and sales tax work before you open your business. After you are open (which is the minute you sell even one arrangement), don’t cut corners when it comes to taxes. Also, learn business math. Learn what COGs and CODB are. Understand the difference between gross and net profit. Having a solid understanding of your numbers will help you take your next steps.” - Maggie Pozorski, Oh You’re Lovely
On Craft Shows
“Bring business cards. Have a Popl. Talk to everyone. Show you're thankful for every purchase, genuinely. Then decompress for a couple days afterward. Have fun! Plan the next.” - Jennifer Jackson, Lenorae Creative & Craft
“I have begun dying & building my arrangements as seasonal color palettes. I pack them together whenever possible to make things easy and faster to unload and set up.
The best part— when the market is over, you can quickly see how well you did based on the number of crates you need to refill when it’s over.” - Elissa Findley, Designs in Bloom by Elissa
Tips on Powering Through
“Be willing to advertise yourself and don’t let social media likes discourage you. If you have a event that doesn’t do amazingly well don’t be hard on yourself. If this is something that you really enjoy and want to do don’t expect a overnight success. No small business even if we sell the same thing journey is the same.” - Resa Rodriguez
“Your business will grow organically, but if you’re pushing and hustling for new business, realize your limitations. I was pushed by pressures of others to grow the business quickly. While the opportunities came, I didn’t have the support systems in place to be able to handle the work load. I delivered everything beautifully and on time by the grace of God, but it led to burn out, missing family/friends time and vacations. Relationships were hurt, my health was impacted, and it’s taken a lot of effort to get back to good.
I realized that you don’t have to take every opportunity that is presented to you. You have to be intentional about growth and your limitations.” - Tania Page Capo, Bloomed
Owning a small business is a marathon, not a sprint. Staying consistent with your messaging and social media can be challenging but it will pay off in the long run. Trust the process (and squint once in a while!) - Stefanie Lin, Oh You’re Lovely
In-Depth Interviews with Small Biz Owners
Our Maker Spotlight series not only highlights our makers, each spoke of their journey and offered advice on running a small creative business. Click here to be inspired!
Words of Encouragement
“A simple one: Believe in yourself” - Jen Sprandel, Blushing Bark