Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in floristry, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Yachna Singh, the owner of Uzuri Design, based in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada.
Tell us all about your business...
Uzuri Design specializes in making handmade wreaths and centrepieces with faux florals. They are made on grapevine or metal wreath bases, with each floral carefully hand-picked and matched based on the colour palettes that I create. Some pieces are themed or seasonal, and accents are added to elevate the theme. Custom pieces are also available on request. My customers are anyone who loves to decorate their home or shoppers looking for a gift for a loved one. All my creations are available throughout Canada.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a business owner?
"Ninafuraha kukutana na wewe". It’s nice to meet you. I’m Yachna, a South African-born woman now living in Canada. I am the owner of Uzuri Design. My love for crafts was uplifted after having a simple conversation with friends about hobbies, interests, and improvements to our homes during the pandemic. I started to try creating my wreaths instead of buying already-made pieces. From there, I decided to take it a step further and share them with friends. In November 2020, I opened a small local business and created “Uzuri,” meaning “beauty” or “goodness” in Swahili. I am motivated by my husband, family, friends, and customers every day. I have so many loving people around me constantly letting me know how great my designs look or that they can’t wait for the upcoming season’s collection to launch. It is their love and kindness that keeps my passion flamed. I am eternally grateful.
As an entrepreneur, what does success ultimately mean to you?
Having almost every design purchased over the past year has been an incredible accomplishment. I am so grateful that I get to create pieces shared by others as gifts. Knowing that my handmade pieces are on someone else’s front door tabletop or mantlepiece is a delightful feeling.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve had is to make sure you plan well ahead. Never before have I ever needed to think about Christmas in September or Spring in January. Planning, getting stock out of season, and creating many different designs for upcoming collection launches is a challenge – but an intriguing one. Keeps me on my toes!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run or grow a small business today?
- Focus on creating something you have a passion for. There will be days when I feel like I don’t have the energy to make many pieces, but because I enjoy floral arranging and décor making, it helps maintain my drive to keep going.
- Know your industry and customers. Please don’t be shy to ask friends and family for their opinions and tips for marketing around to them. Learning buying behavior is a powerful thing.
- Reach out for help. Whether it’s Google or another small business owner, don’t be afraid to ask for help. The first few months are tricky, and you’ll have to research more than you ever have about your product. So get the guidance; it helped me. Other small business owners are so friendly and super helpful!
Where can people find you online?
Website: https://www.uzuri.design/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uzuri.design.and.decor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uzuri.design/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as an entrepreneur or business coach 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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