New Location Now Open in Pawhuska, OK
How it all Started
Hello, my name is Whitney. I am a first-generation florist and entrepreneur. Initially, I never envisioned owning a flower shop; I grew up believing I lacked any creative talent. It wasn't until I discovered flowers that I felt I truly began to live.
Coming from modest beginnings, I became determined to earn a million dollars before turning 30, little did I know I would find myself starting anew in my thirties. In my quest for financial success, I often sacrificed precious time with my husband and two children, working tirelessly, traveling, and missing significant events like award ceremonies and school programs, barely managing to take one child to the doctor. It was only after receiving the heartbreaking news that my sister lost her son at the age of nine that I began to realize what truly mattered in life. Marcus was just a few years older than my son, and the thought of losing him was enough to inspire me to refocus my priorities.
So, I decided to leave my job and dedicate time to my family. During the year and a half that followed, I cooked, cleaned, and served my loved ones. My children and I spent our summers fishing, exploring creeks, picking wildflowers, and simply enjoying nature. That’s when I discovered my passion for floral design, which brought me immense joy. I began to consider the possibility of becoming a florist. Unsure of how to start, the financial burden of a single income for a family of four led me back to work. This time, I took a non-profit position focused on fundraising for wonderful charities in my hometown, but the desire to create florals lingered in my mind.
One day, I learned about a local florist hosting a retreat to teach how to make bridal bouquets and centerpieces. I signed up and jumped right in! They even had a photographer and model to capture our creations. I shared those photos on Instagram and booked 14 weddings that year—what an incredible experience! By 2020, I had 28 weddings lined up. In December of 2019, I found out we were expecting our third child, which was a surprise since our oldest was 11 and our youngest was 8 at the time. Our daughter was born in August during the height of COVID when daycares were closed, prompting me to leave my full-time job once again.
I mentioned to my husband that I might try starting a flower shop since I had already been doing weddings, and that’s how it all began. Josie took her first steps in our shop and has been by my side as we expanded into our second location. She loves attending weddings and helps arrange the bud vases. My son also assists at weddings, carrying buckets, cleaning up, and capturing videos. My middle daughter has explored floral design and is one of my biggest cheerleaders! It has truly become a family affair. I often reflect on how fortunate I am and continually thank God for this incredible gift.
In April of this year, I was honored to be selected for the Art In Bloom exhibit at the Philbrook Museum. Inspired by a deep urge to sculpt, I created a piece depicting a mother and son using materials like chicken wire, air clay, dried leaves, rose petals, and amaranths. This sculpture tells a poignant story of a mother’s loss, which touched my heart while also offering healing and hope. To my surprise, it won the People’s Choice Award, a recognition I truly cherish.
I often reflect on the beginnings of my journey, marked by the tragic loss of not one, but two nephews, and the role I embrace when creating for others. It has become my love language and a pathway to healing. Initially, I believed I lacked any creative talent, but through God’s grace, I discovered a gift that I hold dear.
Thank you sincerely for taking the time to listen to my story and how it all began. I look forward to the chance for my team and me to design something special for you.