We were lucky to catch up with Makenna Callaway recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Makenna, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I have always had a passion for people. Growing up I was told that I was a good friend and loved hard. I find those strengths led me to learn the floral industry is all about being a good friend and loving those around you. I value highly my relationships with others, as it is a way for me to connect with my creator. My faith in Jesus has driven me to pursue people and learn their stories. Through this passion for others, I have grown to love what makes them unique. Getting to play a part in telling their story, even if that is a birth announcement of their child, that child going to daddy daughter dances or prom, maybe falling in love, or graduating…Through the florals I arrange, I want my clients to see a little bit of themselves, and the God that loves them.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a wedding and event florist. I do wedding florals, design classes, bouquet bars, and large events. I focus on creating high quality arrangements and experiences while my couples and clients can experience joy as they connect with each other. I feel as though the most exciting thing about being a florist is seeing your clients vision come to life as they get to enjoy their event stress free and how they always dreamed it to be. My brand is all about being a friend who creates joyful florals with intention. I take the time to listen to the needs of my clients and couples and bringing their Pinterest board dreams to life.
Coming soon I will be moving into the everyday retail, and sympathy space when I launch a brick-and-mortar location. So keep an eye out for that if you are in the Mansfield, or Midlothian Texas area. I also have been really excited about bouquet bars lately where I set up a floral display for your guests and they get to pick and choose what stems they want to take home. I wrap them up for them and help them with designing so they can take home a one-of-a-kind bouquet.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three things that have been most impactful in my journey is humbling myself to listen to those that have been there before me, learn to value myself, and make every effort to give as you go.
Get in a group of successful people who are doing what you would like to and listen. I had a mentor floral design teacher that I worked under for several years and just listened. Sure, there were things I wanted to do differently in my own business, but I also learned a lot of valuable knowledge I wouldn’t have known If I started without watching someone else.
Pricing is key. You have to realize your time, experience, and resources are luxury others want to spend their money on. Do not sell yourself short and price appropriately so you can create an impactful experience for your customers.
Finally, make sure you appreciate the journey and do things that bring you joy as you go. not everything will make you money, but some things are worth doing if it grows you and helps your community. Build in some space for you to give to things that you believe in.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me, was believe in me and give generously to me. My dad always encouraged me to talk through my doubts and let Jesus and my community to speak truth to me. Whenever I didn’t know the answer, my dad would find one for me. He was always the first to put in the work to look in the right direction to help.
My mom would give me anything she had to help me out. Whether it was her time, a tool, or a resource she would always be the first to contribute to my well-being, my marriage, and my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lavenderandloveflorals.com
- Instagram: @lavenderandloveflorals
- Facebook: lavender and love florals
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