Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Coulter.
Emily, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
In 2014, I was waitressing at night and raising two small girls during the day. Out of the blue, the owner of the islands oldest flower shop called me and asked me if I wanted to buy her business. I didn’t hesitate. It was a big yes. I had never worked with flowers but she was a family friend and thought I had what it takes.
Over the last four years, I have completely updated the aesthetic of this old island shop and have taken a few classes. I have taught myself so much and feel like it is something that has always been inside of me. The team that has come on to work with me is incredible and together, we have doubled the business in just four years. We do lots of weddings and everyday arrangements that we deliver all over the island.
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?
Owning a business is crazy. I wear a billion different hats everyday. The art that I create, the smell of the shop, playing with color and shape, thats the fun part. But, this is the hardest job I’ve ever had. There are things florists do on a regular basis that no one thinks about. The daily grind is real. People often come into the shop and proclaim when they retire, they are going to become a florist. Hahaha, good luck with that!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Morrice Florist opened in 1940. James Morrice grew his own flowers, mostly mums, and made birthday, anniversary and funeral arrangements. 74 years later, I bought the business from his granddaughter. I remember coming here as a child, getting a daffodil on palm sunday. I remember the smell and it still smells the same. I definitely had a vision for the space when I first started. I ripped up the carpets and polished the concrete and painted every surface.
The shop has always been the go to flower shop but now we are specifically know for our beautiful flower arrangements. Our look is loose, garden inspired and whimsical. We source local flowers from April through October which definitely helps us achieve our signature looks. We also sell a ton of great gifts too that go perfectly with a bouquet of flowers.
Weddings are a huge part of the business. We create the most beautiful tablescapes tailored to the individuals. It’s my favorite part of my flower life. We have become one the top wedding florists on the island. Our flowers are so romantic!
What were you like growing up?
I grew up on martha’s vineyard. My parents were amazing and I’m so close with my siblings. My mom always had us creating art in some way, all day, everyday. She was totally hands on and nurtured our inner artist. I loved being outside, we had so many forts and played with mud. I whittled sticks, lifted logs for salamanders and rode my bike. I loved drawing and painting. I was always changing my room around and painting the walls.
I was always very driven as a kid and have always worked very hard.
Pricing:
- Everyday Arrangements (birthdays, anniversaries, just because) $15-$300
- Bridal Bouquets $125- $350
- Weddings $1500- unlimited
Contact Info:
- Address: 149 State Rd
Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 - Website: www.morriceflorist.com
- Phone: 508-693-0392
- Email: emily@morriceflorist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morriceflorist/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MorriceFlorist/
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