Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in floristry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Janelle Buye, owner of Sweet Stems, located in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a florist for events, holidays, and everyday occasions! My customer base is made up of people who love bright, colorful, and creative arrangements.
Tell us about yourself
I worked for another florist for about nine months and fell in love with floral design. Unfortunately, I had to quit working for this florist because she lived an hour away from my city, and driving every day wasn’t feasible. I missed floristry so much, and it’s extremely hard to enter this industry, so I decided to start my own business.
I have always been a creative person and have used many mediums to create art throughout my life - using flowers has been my favorite by far! Something that motivates me is the look on someone’s face when they receive their flowers. Nothing can brighten someone’s day like a beautiful bouquet. I am often told that my bouquets can last over three weeks, so not only do my flowers make their day, they can brighten their whole month.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would have to say my biggest accomplishment is the growth that I’ve had with this business in such a short amount of time. I have only been doing this since April of 2021, and I am gaining traction fast - I thought it would take years to get where I am. I am quickly outgrowing my home studio and will be moving to a location very soon. This interview, in itself, is a huge accomplishment for me.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There are so many hard things that I didn’t anticipate when I decided to start my own business. One of the big things I struggled with initially was finding a balance between work and home because my business is based out of my home right now. I would work so late because I couldn’t turn off my work brain. I still struggle with this sometimes, especially when I’m working on a wedding, but I’m getting better!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your costs really well.
- Know your target audience.
- Have exciting and engaging social media pages.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If you have a passion, find a way to make it your job because life is way more fun when you can spend your days doing what you love!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://sweeetstems.wixsite.com/sweetstems
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetstemsss
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetstemsss/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.