When I look back on this season, my heart is full of gratitude. Taking the leap into entrepreneurship was nerve wracking—I knew how to grow flowers, but everything else was uncharted territory. Thankfully, my cheerleaders and supporters were louder than my self-doubt, pushing me forward as I figured it out (and continue to!).
The journey began at a familiar spot: Deschutes Brewery. The Central Oregon Flower Collective held a Mother’s Day sale there, and so many friends came to support me, buying my first bouquets. I was overjoyed—and relieved! I was really doing it.
Next came the launch of the Petal Punch Card, a milestone that brought an entirely new experience: someone I didn’t know bought one! Having a stranger say, "I believe in what you’re doing," was incredible and deeply motivating. And honestly, every new person that purchases from me gives me such a warm-fuzzy feeling.
My first solo pop-up sale at Nancy P’s Bakery (my first workplace in Bend) was incredible. The support was overwhelming—bouquets sold faster than I could set up, and I sold out that day. I went on to hold three sales there this summer, and each had the most positive energy. Huge thanks to my friend Katy for offering her space and being a continued support.
The Central Oregon Flower Collective played a pivotal role in my success. I nearly didn’t join because of imposter syndrome—a farmer? a business owner? me? But I’m so glad I did. Seeing flowers I grew in stunning arrangements by talented designers was surreal. And I have gained wonderful flower friends through it. Big thanks to Lisa for fostering such an incredible community.
Of course, this season came with its challenges. Central Oregon threw its toughest weather yet at us: late frosts, early frosts, relentless heat, a month of wildfire smoke—it was brutal. Some sales were so quiet it felt like I was throwing a party no one wanted to come to!
This year, I challenged myself to try a little of everything—including weddings! Flowering my dear friend’s coastal wedding was as demanding as it was rewarding. And as the seasons shift, I’m channeling my creativity into dried flower creations—wreaths, hair adornments, hat pins—and perfecting my calendula chamomile skin oil. There’s nothing quite like growing something from seed, nurturing it, and turning it into something healing for others.
This little business also made a difference beyond flowers. Together, we raised over $1,000 for pediatric cancer research and donated blooms to local nonprofits. The most meaningful feedback came from people touched by my flowers—those who found hope during hard times or started their own gardens after learning from my posts. These moments fuel me to keep growing, literally and figuratively.
If there’s a theme to this year, it’s community. While it may look like a one-woman show (and I did work hard!), so much credit goes to the people who believed in me, offered advice, and opened doors to opportunities.
So thank you– I really could not have done it without you all. I am so excited for what the future holds and all the ways we can sow seeds of beauty and hope in our community.
With so much gratitude,
Emily
P.S. If you have a dream you’ve been holding back on, take it from someone who hesitated for years: just go for it! The only way to learn is by doing. There will be people to support and cheer for you along the way—including me. It’s scary to put your dreams out there, but that’s how you let the light in. 🌸
