Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Hersey.
Joanna, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve always been an art lover but for most of my adult life, I worked in an office setting doing admin work. I knew all long in the back of my mind, that there was a major discontent between my true self and my career choice and I longed for a career that would allow me to be creative and foster my love of the visual arts. I worked for years and years doing admin work and in fact, had fully written off the idea of ever changing careers when suddenly, I found myself, a struggling single mom who was stuck at the office earning a decent paycheck but feeling depressed and missing out on all of my young daughters’ early years and milestones. I felt tired and frustrated and I finally asked myself: Is this really worth it? So, I made a plan to study the art of floral design (which I had dreamed of doing since I did flowers for my own wedding years ago) and learn the craft.
Slowly but surely, I learned and practiced. I donated my services in exchange for much needed experience. I assisted a very talented florist who taught me her tips and tricks. I collaborated with countless other wedding professionals on side projects and gained a cohesive understanding of the wedding industry as a whole. I slowly started taking on real clients and before I knew it… Twig & Briar was born. I’ve fulfilled my dream of becoming a creative and on top of that, I’ve discovered a passion for all things entrepreneurial. I feel very blessed and honored to be able to make flowers and bring beauty to the most meaningful day in a couple’s life. And the best part is, I get to show my daughter that it’s possible and 100% worth it to go with your gut and follow what inspires you.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Finding my own personal style took some time. As I’ve built my portfolio and worked with clients with varying styles and aesthetics, I’ve found what connects with me and what doesn’t. I’ve found my creative voice and my “floral point of view”. That has been an important step for me personally and professionally, it’s amazingly freeing to find a niche and feel confident and not be scared of pigeon-holing yourself or limiting your business opportunities.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Twig & Briar story. Tell us more about the business.
Twig & Briar creates inspired florals for indie couples and intimate weddings.
I’m most inspired by all things ethereal and wild. My favorite flowers are those that grow wild on the side of the road. I’m drawn to unique shapes and textures.
I’m nontraditional in every sense of the word. I can’t help it, that’s just how I am. And I think that, since I’m quite left of center, I’m able to connect with my couples in a way that’s really modern and refreshing. I bring a unique perspective to the wedding planning process and my goal with every couple is to find what inspires them and create a mood with my florals that reflects their uniqueness and their aesthetic. No two weddings should be alike and I want my couples to feel that we told THEIR love story with the flowers.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Sometimes, what seems like bad luck or misfortune at the time turns out to be a blessing in disguise. Some of the most precarious situations have helped to galvanize my resolve to push on and make my dreams come true. But, obviously there’s no denying good luck! I’ve certainly had my fair share of good luck and kindness and support from countless people along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.twigandbriar.com
- Email: joanna@twigandbriar.com
- Instagram: @twigandbriarfloral
Image Credit:
Valley of Wonder
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