Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in floristry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Anne Engert, owner of Del Mar Floral, located in San Diego, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a full-service floral boutique! If it involves flowers - we are your shop - in addition to so many other services. We have a large selection of blooming and green plants, lots of orchid plants and succulents, unique giftware, custom food and gift baskets, everlasting and fresh floral design, event and wedding work...we could go on and on!
We are Solana Beach Florist, Rancho Santa Fe Flowers, and Del Mar Floral - all under one roof! Our talented and welcoming staff is here to help with any needs you may have, whether it is for a simple pick up of a fresh bouquet, a special delivery to a friend or loved one, or to brighten someone's day across the world. Custom orders are welcome! We design in your Grandma's heirloom vase or one of our unusual containers. Our personal shopper frequents the flower markets daily and brings us the freshest blooms every morning. We also visit our favorite nurseries on a very regular basis for the hardiest and best plants in town.
Tell us about yourself
I actually kind of "fell" into the floral industry - as a side effect of being in love:) I was an exchange high school student from Norway, and long story short ended up marrying the youngest son in my host family - who were florists. I helped out for holidays and as needed and discovered a love and talent for color, texture, design - this is now 30 years ago!
Needless to say, I enjoy what I do - and feel blessed to be a part of so many special events in our customers' lives - making them even more memorable with beautiful flowers and plants. After having served the local community for so many years, we have developed countless relationships with our clients - I think that is the most rewarding of all.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say staying in business and thriving for over 40 years, now being the 2nd generation of this family-owned and operated store. The industry as a whole had a major boost during the last couple of years - as COVID kept friends and family from gathering - our delivery service has been and is a wonderful way to stay in touch and still celebrate those special moments we all have.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Owning a small business means always being "on" - meaning one needs to be reachable to troubleshoot or handle any issues that may arise, much like being "on-call" in the medical field. Also, being able to use the fresh product effectively, much like a restaurant, is key to remaining successful which requires a close eye on the "in" and "out" of the product.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Visibility online is Uber important - if you are unable to keep up with postings - hire a young tech-savvy helper:)
- Learn to be a people person (if you not already are) A florist learns a lot about their clients through personal interaction, whether it is face to face or over the phone - it is very important to build trust to be of help for those special moments in our client's lives.
- Deliver product and customer service above and beyond what's expected - do what you say you are going to do, and then some.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://delmarfloral.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DelMarFloral
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delmarfloral/
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.