I am beyond thrilled, or pumped, I'm overwhelmed. I am so overwhelmed by an out pouring of support and love from friends and family members. This past weekend we celebrated the grand opening of my very own little flower shop.
To be honest, owning a flower shop has not always been a clear direction for Free State Flora. I have gone back and fourth with myself over the last few years about whether it would be best to keep things as they were, a simple studio. Or if I should try floral endeavors back in my home town, or expanded farming production, but none of those felt quiet right. I have always had an itch for more. Deep down I've known from the beginning that I wanted to be a part of the happenings that make Wichita, Kansas the amazing town that it is. The best part is that it gets cooler every year. We have some incredible small business in town that are helping to drive our little-big city to be better than it ever has. I want to be a part of that push forward.
When I started Free State Flora in 2016, I was focused on being a full time mom, urban flower farmer and wedding florist. Simple right? It was just too much, and before long it became clear that wedding design was my niche. I focused on perfecting this craft, something I may never fully do, and I have found myself surrounded by some amazing opportunities. I have built some great relationship within the Wichita wedding vendor community, as well as women from The Hive Wichita. These relationship have helped elevate my business to a place where it no longer fit in my basement and garage.
2020 was supposed to be the year of growth, stepping up and realizing dreams. It's no surprise to tell you that it was not. This unforeseen pandemic wreaked havoc on my business finances and mental health. It has been hard to start back up again, but I just don't know when to f-ing quit, so here I am. Despite not getting off to the start that I had so truly hoped for, I am now moving forward on what seems to be a fortuitous path. Work has been flowing in, more than I can handle. The perfect building became available, just when I needed it. Locally flower farmers have been popping out of the woodwork with incredible product. It has truly been a year of joy.
We celebrated the opening of our boutique style flower shop on July 3rd of 2021. Katy Elaine Photography captured the moments beautifully.
I designed this shop with a vintage, European vibe in mind, reminiscent of an apothecary. I have excellent space for hanging dried flowers. I'm blessed plenty of warm sunlight light to keep my baby plants alive, as well as allow for some decent photography on my end. I've dressed the building up with antique furniture, warm Persian style rugs and filled the room with flowers, both fresh, dry and artificial. I've been told several times how inviting and calming our space is. I can't begin to explain how much joy that brings me, because I feel just the same.
When my friends ask how I feel, I almost always say, "tired, but loving everyday." This last month and a half of hard labor has lead to something special. Let me know what you think in the comments section.
Peace & Love
Emily
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