Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in floristry, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with floral artist, Shannon Beth McIntyre founder at Feather & Fern Florist, located in North Yorkshire.
Tell us about yourself and your journey to where you are today...
My parents run a few of their own businesses so i have always been surrounded by business-minded people. I set up my own business in August 2020, in-between covid lockdowns, i knew i always wanted my own business but it took a while to decide what it would be! I started entering competitions for floristry when i was 11, I actually went to national level a few times and i was placed 2nd in the country at 13. My love for creating with flowers grew. Throughout lockdown i found myself very lost and with little to do, i started playing around with flowers to send to friends and family as a little pick me up when we were unable to see anyone and my passion just came flooding back. It was all very quick, I booked a photographer, bought some flowers and set a date and that was it... I had a business!
What motivates you each day?
The passion for doing what i do sounds so cliche, however I would not get up at 3am for any other reason other then I just love my job! Creating bouquets for people, stories and reasons behind the orders, "I need a sorry bouquet ASAP for the wife" or the lovely "Just because."
What makes your flower business stand out?
I'm Young, only 20 years old, and i would say I'm current! I try to stay on top of every trend, i don't have a set style, i work with what ever the brief is. I've trained with the very best (Judith Blacklock). I never say no. I love a challenge... the bigger the better.
What is the hardest part of being an entrepreneur?
Work and life balance, there is no such thing as clocking off and kicking back, I think thats been the hardest thing for me. It's hard trying to relay to friends that i can't just go out for a few drinks because my admin pile is bigger than my ironing pile! I think starting a business in covid was always going to be a big risk, there has been some times where I wished hadn't, but you've always got to look at what you've achieved and that makes everything better!
What do you believe has led to the success of your floristry business?
I have learned that perfect doesn't just happen it takes practise. I shared my journey from the start on social media and in the newspapers locally and people have loved seeing my little business grow! People always stop me in the street to ask how a wedding or event went and I think thats how I've become successful, People love to feel involved. I have a lovely local support in the area I have grown up. People are so supportive and then this has stretched to nationally, I even post flowers to London now!
Where can people find you online?
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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