Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in floristry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Michel Bigras, owner of Wflowers, located in Ottawa, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Wflowers is a small local florist in the heart of Nepean on Merivale Rd., where it is filled with beautiful fresh seasonal flowers, plants, and gift ideas. Local artists also use the common space to exhibit and sell their art, jewelry, and holiday greeting cards. My clients are from all walks of life and ages, celebrating special events such as the birth of a baby, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and even death. Wflowers is known for its long-lasting flowers at an affordable price. People are always commenting on the beautiful display, positive energy, and most of all, the love and passion I have for people, flowers, and plants.
Tell us about yourself
Well, I wasn't always a florist. I used to be a Social Services Worker. I always had a love for flowers and plants, as did my Grandmother. She grew beautiful flowers and arranged them in vases like no other. Once I left Social Work, I decided to try this field and found it quite rewarding and fulfilling. A sense of beauty was created by putting flowers together, bringing smiles not only to those purchasing them but the smile on those receiving them. The comments I was getting filled my heart and brought purpose to helping those wishing to share their sentiment with one another. I became the driver of one's emotion to another. I guess this is what motivates me to do this every day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is by far owning my own flower shop and being self-sufficient. I've been a recovered alcoholic sober now for ten years, and I've climbed the top of the mountain with endurance learning all the way. But today, now I extend a hand, bringing others to the top of the mountain, helping others trying to get sober, helping those who suffer from mental issues, and bringing hope to the homeless, where I found myself going into treatment. This accomplishment is truly my biggest.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is ensuring all clients get the best services, products, and long satisfaction with every call they make to Wflowers. When holidays come, it is the most difficult thing to manage. So many people order last minute, and sometimes I find myself having to decline their order as I'm overwhelmed with all the orders I have to do. For as long as I've been a florist, this has been the most difficult thing. Did I order enough flowers? I'm going to be stuck with a lot of stock. I don't like to gamble. lol
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Make sure you study the market for what you want to sell. Make sure the demand is strong and has been for a long time so that it will continue through our changing times. Make sure your knowledge exceeds your school education on what you want to start. Go work in the field you want to start your business in. and finally, find others that are like-minded in business so you can learn from them, ask questions, take what works from them and discard what isn't working. Always smile and try not to worry and bring it home. When you lock up, leave your work at work. Bringing it home won't resolve anything. :)
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It's not easy being the boss, but you won't have to answer to anyone when you make mistakes or when you accomplish something good. The responsibility will all rest on you.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.wflowersottawa.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wflowersottawa/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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