Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Delaney Grimm. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Delaney, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
I started my business in 2020 and honestly started it as just a hobby. I liked the peace that was associated with flowers and being creative. It slowly turned into an actual business which brought on its own challenges. Obviously starting your own business can bring on waves of anxiety and doubt for anyone, however, I found out the hard way that you need to allow yourself breaks. In 2021, I had a diagnosed mental break. I was disassociated from reality and felt as if I was looking through a window into my life.
This was at a time when my business was starting to take off and I was doing art markets almost every other weekend and accepting custom orders left and right, not to mention my wedding was only a month away! I found that flowers are what made my mind quiet and allowed me to feel comfortable with my surroundings. Through some medication and lots of time outside, I came back to myself.
I truly believe that my art allowed the right medium for me to be able to remain calm during such a troubling time. While I don’t retain many memories from this month’s span, I created some of my best flower frames to date. I continue to use nature and flowers to find tranquility.
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’ve always been into crafting and creating from the time I was little. I say I have a “too-much” gene and have to go all-in with whatever project currently piques my interest. Little did I know, it wasn’t until I found my love for flowers that I finally settled on one craft to master.
My journey as a floral preservation artist began in 2020 with a profound appreciation for the fleeting elegance of nature. It was during a walk through a blooming garden that I felt an overwhelming desire to capture the intricate details and vibrant hues of these delicate blossoms, preserving them in all their glory. That moment marked the inception of my lifelong passion.
What truly sets my work apart is the personal touch and meticulous attention to detail I bring to each project. I believe that every bouquet, every petal, and every bud carries its own narrative. When you choose to entrust your cherished blooms to me, you’re not just getting a preservation service; you’re gaining a partner in crafting a visual masterpiece that captures your essence, your moments, and your memories.
Whether it’s your wedding bouquet that encapsulates the magic of your special day, a memorial arrangement that honors a loved one, or a garden bloom that holds sentimental value, I’m here to help you preserve and cherish those moments. Every piece I create is a testament to my dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to exceeding your expectations.
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?
I would say botanical knowledge, design and aesthetics, and great customer relations are the top 3 qualities/skills needed to be a floral preservation artist.
Botanical knowledge including understanding of flower anatomy, physiology, and lifecycle. A floral preservation artist should have a deep knowledge of different types of flowers, their characteristics, and how they grow and age. This understanding is essential for selecting the right flowers for preservation and knowing when they are at their peak for pressing. Knowledge of a variety of pressing methods and which method is most suitable for different types of flowers and desired outcomes is also valuable.
Design and aesthetics including a strong sense of design, color theory, and aesthetics can be important for creating visually pleasing floral arrangements. Floral preservation artists need to arrange preserved flowers in ways that are not only beautiful but also meaningful to their clients with attention to detail and meticulous precision to ensure that flowers are preserved flawlessly and that the final arrangements are of the highest quality.
Great customer relations such as effective communication skills are crucial for understanding clients’ preferences, discussing design ideas, and having the ability to interpret and execute clients’ visions is essential.
Running a successful floral preservation business requires knowledge of pricing, marketing, inventory management, and financial planning. Being able to manage the business side of floral preservation is vital for long-term success.
In addition to these essential qualities, skills, and knowledge areas, it’s also beneficial for floral preservation artists to stay updated on industry trends and new preservation techniques. Continuous learning and a passion for the craft will go a long way!
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents instilled in me the invaluable lesson of self-reliance and problem-solving by encouraging me to “figure it out.” This approach had a positive impact on many areas of my life. It taught me the importance of independence and self-confidence, pushing me to tackle challenges with determination and creativity. Instead of relying on others to provide solutions, I learned to take initiative, seek knowledge, and persist in finding answers on my own. This upbringing has not only empowered me to overcome obstacles but has also fostered a strong sense of self-sufficiency and adaptability, which I now carry with me in all aspects of my life. I am grateful for the guidance and trust my parents placed in me, as it has been instrumental in shaping my character and enabling me to face the world’s uncertainties with resilience and optimism.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.flowerchildbydelaney.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerchildbydelaney/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlowerChildByDelaney
