Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rebecca Palmer, founder of Petal & Blüm Creative, located in Sylvan Lake, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Petal & Blüm (pronounced bloom) is a home-based business that utilizes workshops and social media marketing to spread the love of all things plants. We strive to be a little different than your typical home plant shop by organizing and participating in community events for causes close to our hearts, such as Saving Grace Animal Rescue, Red Deer and Sylvan Lake Christmas Bureau, and the Red Deer Hospice.
Literally, the first thing I say in every workshop – Petal & Blüm is my passion, and I love sharing my knowledge. We started by doing terrarium workshops exclusively, but we are so much more than that! We offer a diverse selection of products and services that aim to help even those who don’t typically have success with plants enjoy the craft.
Petal & Blüm is always adapting to our client’s needs/wants. I love designing and creating, so we offer custom seasonal planters, eucalyptus shower bundles, and of course, house plants and annuals during spring/summer.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up around plants; my parents owned a well-known greenhouse in Central Alberta, “Dentooms Greenhouses” it was my happy place. Seeing our daily customers, helping create some magic with their patio planters, or designing their yards. When my parents sold it in 2015, I was lost and trying to figure out what sparked my passion again.
In 2018 one morning, I had an idea so big I had to wake up my husband, Jeff, right away. Together, we went to a local coffee shop to hash out this idea of mine, and within three hours, we had our name and business plan complete. Working with plants can clearly have a positive effect on our well-being. Aside from being gorgeous, they bring everyone a little bit more peace.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
In 2019, Petal and Blüm was contacted by NOVA Chemicals to put on a workshop for Administrative Professionals Day. I didn’t realize the size of the workshop, but to my surprise, there would be fifty people in attendance! It was the largest one we had held so far. The day went amazing, so much laughter & creativity was happening. This was when I knew Petal & Blüm is going to be doing great things!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Dealing with the unknown- there will be new challenges and obstacles every day. Business is never predictable, no matter how prepared you are.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Taking your idea and inspiring others.
- Continue to grow.
- Be proud of your accomplishments and enjoy the little things.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I’m all about helping and supporting our community. Petal and Blüm donates 10% of the proceeds to the Christmas Bureau in November and December. That tradition started with my husband and me. On our date nights, we would skip the meal and instead use the money to go shopping for a toy for a child in need.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://petalandblum.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petalandblum
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petalandblum/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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