Interview with a Florist; Part 2 With Michelle Davis

 Michelle Davis - Yzaguirre;  Flowers From the Heart by Michelle, 2595 Avenue G, Winter Haven, FL

Like most of my floral friends, Michelle and I "hooked up" as floral friends through Facebook. I don't remember exactly when we started "chatting" via Facebook Messenger, but the earliest conversation that I can see when I look back is September of 2011! Yup, 12 years ago. I should mention that when we first started chatting, she was single. Then I saw her going out on her first date with Lupe and then saw pictures online of her wedding day. Awww, I love that!! 

Over the years we messaged back and forth about everything and anything floral related. Sometimes she asked me questions, sometimes I asked her questions. Here's an example:  In November of 2013, Michelle's question was "On that turkey arrangement you just posted, what did you use for the head of the bird?" and my answer was "It's a gourd wrapped in moss". Now, you don't have conversations like that everyday!! 

Enjoy my interview with Michelle!!

How did you happen to get into the flower business?

I grew up in the business. My mom started in the industry when I was 15 or 16. I actually delivered flowers for Mother's day just after turning 16! 

Fast forward to 2017, my parents retired and my husband and I purchased the business from them. Although I knew how to run the design room, I knew nothing about the business side of things!! 

What part of your business is the valuable?

Being able to work with family. I am so grateful to work with my husband and to be able to bring our fur babies into the shop with us. It was truly a learning curve to figure out how to share the business with him. The first year we worked together was the hardest until we found our way. Luckily, the business allowed me flexibility so that I could be the caregiver for my mom. Also, it's a given to say that our wonderful customers are of great value to us! 

What Part of your business is the least valuable?

The Order Gathers, need I say more? I think not. 

If you could go back to the beginning, what words of advice would you give yourself? What do you wish you knew then that you know now?

Money is not everything, but money is a tool that needs to be used properly. When my husband and I figured that out, things at our business started to go more smoothly. I learned that it's ok to say no, we do not have to take every order that is presented to us. 

In this industry, things can't be put in concrete, the business is always fluid, ever-changing. It surprises me everyday. As much as we plan to take a day off, that might not happen when a grieving family comes in the door. You have to be flexible to be successful. 

If you could change any aspect of your business, what would you change?

To learn more about social media marketing. I'd like to have more dedicated social media impact, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc. I'd love to make it more about us, the designers, the drivers, our fur-babies, making us more relatable to our customers. 

Thinking about your business, what are you most proud of? 

I am most proud of the way we have updated our showroom, our website and providing benefits for our employees.