Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in floristry, but not sure what to expect? Then check out our interview with the florist, Nikki McKinney, owner of The Bell Jar Flowers, in lovely Nottingham, UK.
Tell us about yourself and your journey to where you are today...
After university, I began a career in publishing in the beautiful city of Oxford. However, circumstances, family, and a move North (where there were no publishers at the time) meant that my career took a back seat, and I felt very unfulfilled and undervalued, which led to a feeling of resentment with myself for not changing anything. A landmark big birthday was the last straw, and I had a sense of 'I've got to change something before it's too late!'. I've always been creative; I've always been interested in the arts, books, interiors, architecture. A chance day out at which floral centerpieces put the idea in my head, and from then onwards, I began researching how I could change things for the better.
What motivates you each day?
I have always resented routine; it makes me feel trapped, so I value being my boss. I plan my day with no one telling me what to do, and being a small part of someone's special day is very uplifting. I always have a feeling of euphoria having delivered a wedding, and that carries me through.
Describe your floristry business to us? What makes you stand out? Who are your customers?
I have a very seasonal, natural, garden-inspired approach, and I have a cutting garden, so I try to grow varieties of flowers that are hard to find. I put my heart & soul into every wedding, ensuring that nothing leaves here without it being perfect.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Just actually going ahead and doing it - I feel proud of myself that I've done it, whatever happens. I also put together my website, an area I knew nothing about, which is relatively straightforward and means that I can change even the tiniest detail myself without paying anyone.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to launch, run and grow a business today?
- Be brave, and do it. For better for worse, at least you have tried.
- Try and be surrounded by like-minded people going through the same things you are going through; a support network.
- Do not look at your local competition (something I still struggle with). Plow your furrow, and keep going.
Where can people find you online?
Website: https://www.thebelljarflowers.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebelljarflowers
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 us out and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.