Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoe Forbes.
Zoe, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I took a long road to get to Fleuri Designs but am very grateful to have arrived here! My original plan was to work in the field of refugee assistance which led me to obtain a law degree and begin practicing immigration and refugee law. The arrival of my three sons put an end to that brief career but once my youngest was a year old I was ready for a new profession that would be compatible with my primary occupation as a Mom. It has been challenging to balance business and family but being my own boss and setting my own hours is well worth it. I started the business in 2008 with the donation of a spring planter to a charity auction and from there started taking orders for container gardens. The business has grown steadily through word of mouth and client referrals. Doing pop-up shops and arts and crafts fairs have also been a fun way to meet new clients and market my product.
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?
The main challenge of this business is its seasonal nature. Specializing in outdoor container gardens in the Northeast has its drawbacks. Everyone wants their containers done at the first sign of spring, summer, fall or winter and then it’s quiet. The addition of fresh floral and silk flower design to my services has helped keep my workload steady all year-round. And of course trying to start and grow a business while growing a family always has its challenges!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Fleuri Designs story. Tell us more about the business.
Fleuri Designs started as a four-season container garden business. While container gardening continues to be my primary focus, I have incorporated holiday decoration, fresh floral design for events and permanent botanicals for home decor. I do all the work myself from initial design consultation to finished installation and am in direct contact with my client throughout the process. I am committed to ensuring that my clients are happy with the finished product and I pride myself on the relationships I have built.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I never forget how fortunate I am to love my work. I consider myself very lucky to work with flowers, plants, and other people who appreciate them! As with any business that involves working outdoors, luck – both good and bad – is often related to the weather!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fleuridesigns.com
- Phone: 617-721-0047
- Email: zoeforbes@fleuridesigns.com
- Instagram: fleuridesign
- Facebook: Fleuri Designs
Image Credit:
Fleuri Designs
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