Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in floristry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jennifer Hunt, president, and owner of jh Events and Flowers, Inc., located in McHenry, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a full-service flower and gift shop specializing in creating unique designs for all occasions. We pride ourselves in mixing tradition with not traditional flowers and decor to help our clients achieve a unique look for all their special moments in life.
Tell us about yourself
The road to where I am today has been a long and interesting one. I first fell in love with floral design at the foot of a design table in my aunt's flower shop. My parents got me involved in 4-H and specifically flower arranging. Over the years, I have been blessed to be mentored by various shops and designers, from small family-owned shops to multi-store companies. Then, I have a shop that averaged $1,000,000 in sales with 22 staff members under my supervision. It was at the shop I was given the opportunity to travel and learn from the nation's best designers and received my Illinois State Certification and my Accreditation in floral design from the American Institute of Floral Designer. After 30 plus years working for someone else, I was ready to take the leap and open my own shop.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest business owner accomplishment was navigating and surviving the shutdowns and business changes due to COVID-19. We were forced to pivot and change as the world changed around us through all of this.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest part of being a business owner is finding time for yourself outside of your business. Remember to take the time to stop and smell the roses, spend time with family and friends, and just shut down for a minute and be ok with it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be prepared to work!! You need to be present every day in the beginning. Success happens when you work at it!
- Don't get down on yourself; it takes a while for people to find you, get out there let people know you are there.
- TAKE PICTURES, POST PICTURES!! Use social media to show off your work.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Owning a business is a roller coaster ride with twists and turns; some you see coming and some you don't. You cannot be afraid.... be confident, allow yourself the grace to feel down and make mistakes, but most of all....don't give up!!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://jheventsandflowers.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jheventsandflowers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jheventsandflowers/
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.