We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elaina Anders. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elaina below.
Elaina , looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
My work ethic comes from family. I was raised by hardworking parents and grandparents. I know that nothing worth something comes easy. My business is the sole provider for my family, so that fuels me to keep going, keep working, no matter what
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a florist, in MS where I own and operate a gift store and flower shop.
I started this business journey in Nov of 2019 when I decided to take what was doing flowers in my kitchen for people’s weddings and make a go at opening a store.
I have always dreamed of owning a gift store and flower shop. Ever since I was young I have love to “fru fru” things for people. Take something ordinary and dress it up and make it beautiful. This also leads into designing weddings for clients. Taking their ideas, adding a little extra and making them come to life!
Nothing makes me happier than making things pretty and seeing how happy it makes people.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Be moldable, don’t think that you know all the answers and that you are always right. Be willing to take advice, especially from the older generation that has more experience than you
Be nice. Being nice and understanding goes a long way in business and life. People are much more likely to come back to someone that was a pleasant person to work with rather than someone that was not appreciative or caring.
Which makes my last point, be appreciative. It doesn’t matter if someone spends $100 or $10,000 with you. You need to appreciate the fact that they chose to come to you and support your business. Be thankful for Every customer that chooses to come in to your store, use your services, or support you in any way
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed I love to take a day for myself. Spend it doing what makes me happy. Slow down, visit some other stores to spur some creativity, spend a day in the sun! Just whatever makes you feel absolutely content at the end of the day.
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