We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Brian DeLong-Weismiller. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Brian below.
Brian, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Being “the only one in the room” has been a recurring theme in my life, shaping me in ways that have ultimately been both challenging and rewarding. Growing up as the closeted son of a Baptist minister, I intimately understood the feeling of isolation. When my father moved our family overseas during my teenage years, this sense of being alone was amplified. Returning to the U.S. to attend a private, Christian-based university, I again found myself in a situation where I was distinctly different from those around me.
This pattern continued into my professional life. As the General Manager of a nutraceutical plant during a pandemic who was still in his 30’s, I often felt like I was navigating uncharted waters alone. The resilience, work ethic, confidence, self-esteem, generosity, optimism, and sense of purpose I developed were crucial to my success. However, I realized that these qualities were honed not just because I was the only one in the room, but because I persevered despite it.
A turning point came when I decided to look beyond my immediate reflection in the mirror. I saw that I was not truly alone. There were other gay men who, like me, grew up as the sons of Baptist ministers. There were college friends who had also come out of the closet, and many professionals who were equally drained from the relentless demands of working through the pandemic.
My strength and success, I realized, stem from recognizing that I am part of a broader community. It’s this community that provides support, shares experiences, and fosters resilience. The work ethic, confidence, and optimism I carry are mirrored in the efforts of many others who strive to make the world a better place every day.
In understanding that my journey is shared by others, I found a deeper connection and a renewed sense of purpose. It’s not about being the only one in the room; it’s about being part of a collective effort. This realization has made me more effective and successful because it has given me a sense of belonging and a network of support. Together, we are stronger, and it is through this shared strength that I have learned to thrive.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am excited to share my journey and what I am currently focused on professionally. I am the proud owner of Bud Weismiller Unique Blooms and Gifts, a flower shop dedicated to bringing joy to our community through the beauty of flowers and the art of gift giving.
Our mission is to create memorable experiences for our customers by offering unique floral arrangements and carefully curated gifts that celebrate life’s special moments. Whether it’s a wedding, a birthday, or a simple gesture of love and appreciation, we believe that flowers have the power to uplift spirits and bring people closer together.
What sets Bud Weismiller Unique Blooms and Gifts apart is our commitment to quality and creativity. Each arrangement is crafted with attention to detail and a passion for excellence. We source the freshest flowers and unique gift items to ensure that every purchase is special and personalized.
One of the most exciting aspects of our business is the opportunity to connect with our community in meaningful ways. We regularly host floral design workshops, collaborate with local artists, and participate in community events. These activities not only allow us to share our love for flowers but also help us build lasting relationships with our customers and neighbors.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce a few upcoming initiatives. We are expanding our product line to include a selection of eco-friendly and sustainable gifts, reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, we launched a subscription service, allowing our customers to enjoy fresh, seasonal blooms delivered to their doorsteps on a regular basis.
At Bud Weismiller Unique Blooms and Gifts, our goal is to make a positive impact on our community by spreading joy and beauty. We are passionate about what we do, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share this passion with our customers. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your special moments and for supporting our mission to make the world a more beautiful place, one bloom at a time.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities have been particularly impactful: resilience, creativity, and community engagement. These attributes have shaped my path and enabled me to thrive in both personal and professional spheres.
1. Resilience:
Resilience is the ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity. Growing up as the closeted son of a Baptist minister and navigating various challenging environments, I learned the importance of staying strong and persistent. In my professional life, resilience helped me manage the pressures of running a business during a pandemic. To develop resilience, it’s crucial to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, maintain a positive outlook, and seek support when needed. Building a strong support network and practicing self-care are essential for sustaining resilience over the long term.
2. Creativity
Creativity has been at the heart of my business, Bud Weismiller Unique Blooms and Gifts. It drives innovation and allows me to offer unique, memorable products to my customers. Creativity isn’t just about artistic skills; it’s about thinking outside the box and finding new solutions to problems. For those early in their journey, nurturing creativity involves exposing yourself to diverse experiences, staying curious, and continually learning. Don’t be afraid to take risks and experiment with new ideas. Engaging in activities that inspire you, whether it’s through art, nature, or learning from others, can also spark creative thinking.
3. Community Engagement:
Engaging with the community has been fundamental to the success of my business. Building strong relationships with customers, participating in local events, and collaborating with other businesses create a sense of belonging and mutual support. For those starting out, focus on understanding the needs and interests of your community. Volunteer, attend local events, and network with other professionals. Being an active, contributing member of your community not only helps your business grow but also provides invaluable support and feedback.
Advice for Developing These Qualities:
1. Developing Resilience:
– Embrace challenges as learning experiences.
– Cultivate a positive mindset and practice gratitude.
– Build a support network of friends, family, and mentors.
– Prioritize self-care and stress management techniques.
2. Nurturing Creativity:
– Stay curious and open to new experiences.
– Take time for creative pursuits, even if they are outside your main focus.
– Don’t fear failure; view it as a step towards innovation.
– Surround yourself with inspiring people and environments.
3. Enhancing Community Engagement:
– Get involved in local activities and events.
– Listen to your community’s needs and feedback.
– Foster genuine relationships and collaborations.
– Give back through volunteer work or supporting local causes.
By focusing on resilience, creativity, and community engagement, you can build a strong foundation for success and make a lasting positive impact in your field. These qualities not only contribute to personal growth but also enhance your ability to connect with and serve others effectively.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who values the emotional and aesthetic impact of flowers and gifts. They understand that a well-crafted floral arrangement or a thoughtfully chosen gift can convey profound messages of love, appreciation, and joy. Here are some characteristics that make someone an ideal client…
1. Appreciation for Quality and Craftsmanship:
Our ideal client appreciates the artistry and effort that goes into creating unique floral arrangements and selecting distinctive gifts. They value high-quality products and understand that craftsmanship takes time and dedication.
2. Desire for Personalization:
An ideal client seeks personalized experiences and is enthusiastic about customizing their orders to reflect their individual tastes and the specific occasion. They enjoy collaborating with us to create something truly special and tailored to their needs.
3. Community-Minded:
Clients who are engaged in and supportive of their community resonate with our mission. They value local businesses and understand the importance of fostering strong community ties. They are likely to participate in our workshops, events, and community initiatives, enhancing our collective impact.
4. Environmentally Conscious:
We are expanding our product line to include eco-friendly and sustainable options. Clients who prioritize sustainability and are mindful of their environmental footprint align well with our values and appreciate our efforts to be more environmentally responsible.
5. Emotionally Connected:
Our ideal client recognizes the emotional significance of flowers and gifts. They are thoughtful and empathetic, using our products to express their feelings and connect with others. Whether celebrating a joyous occasion or offering comfort, they understand the power of a meaningful gesture.
6. Enthusiastic Learner:
Clients who are eager to learn and explore new things are a great fit for our workshops and educational events. They are open to discovering more about floral design, gift-giving, and the stories behind our products.
I strive to create memorable and impactful experiences for our clients. By aligning with those who share my values of quality, personalization, community engagement, environmental consciousness, emotional connection, and a love for learning, I can build lasting relationships and continue to bring joy to our community through the beauty of flowers and thoughtful gifts.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.budweismiller.com
- Instagram: @bud.weismiller
- Facebook: @briandelong1981 and @budweismiller
- Linkedin: @briandelong1981
- Twitter: N/A
- Youtube: N/A
- Yelp: @budweismiller
- Soundcloud: N/A
Image credits
Nicole Hernandez, @Qlifemedia, @WIPALV, @SchemeEvents, @ChermogorovPhotography, @Bud.Weismiller
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
