We recently connected with Sue Stark and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Sue with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I came across a quote many years ago that really stuck with me: “Integrity is what you do when no one is watching.” For some reason, that idea has stayed with me, not just as a principle of character, but as something that motivates me to keep going, even when no one’s looking. It reminds me that the effort behind the scenes—is most often what truly leads to greatness and success.
I’ve been really lucky to be surrounded by people with strong work ethics—family, friends, teammates. I played soccer throughout college, so being around people who were always putting in that extra effort felt like the norm. While I think some of that drive is natural, I also know the examples I’ve had along the way shaped that mindset. Seeing others give their all showed me what true dedication looks like. And from that extra effort, success followed. The rewards—both big and small—remind me that hard work pays off. It’s those small wins that keep me going, because I know the bigger ones will come with time. Effort really does lead to success.
That said, I’m not saying every day is easy or that I’m always at my best. There are definitely moments when my motivation wavers. But it’s the consistency of showing up, doing a little more than the next person, that really makes the difference. Whether it’s in your craft, your business, or your sport, it’s that dedication that elevates whatever you’re striving for.
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?
Right now, I’m the founder of Wild Blume, an event floral studio tucked away in the foothills of Bozeman, Montana. This year, my business turns 10 years old.
When people ask me how I got started, I often say, “I don’t know if this flower life chose me or if I chose it.” A while back, I was working in educational sales, but I reached a point where I realized I wanted something different. I wanted to be the one to write my own story—and that’s when Wild Blume came to life.
I started Wild Blume with no business background, no experience in events, and no knowledge of floral design. But what I did have was a strong work ethic, a deep desire to create my own path, and a love for what I was starting. That passion turned into something tangible, sustainable, and now, a thriving business I’m incredibly proud of.
It’s special to me for a million reasons, but I think for many of the people who know about Wild Blume or follow us on social media, it’s a space where they can take a moment to appreciate the beauty of flowers that brighten the day. At its core, the business is uplifting and serves as a reminder that hard work pays off, risks are worth taking, and you really can create something that tells your own story.
We’re celebrating 10 years in August. It’s been hard, most of the time. But as I reflect on the past 10 years and think about the next 10, I can’t imagine doing anything else but continuing to create. I’m so grateful for the community that’s been built around this business, and every time I walk into my studio, I feel that gratitude all over again.
Even on days when I’d rather take a break, I can walk into the studio and can’t help but feel excited and thankful. It’s truly one of my favorite places.
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?
If you’re just starting out on your journey, my best advice is to find a community within your craft or space. Having that support system creates a safe space to ask questions, vent about the challenges, and laugh through the silly moments that will inevitably pop up. There’s no doubt that pressure and stress come with nearly everything we do, but if you have the right mindset—built on confidence, hard work, and a solid group of people behind you—there’s really nothing you can’t tackle.
The community doesn’t have to be industry-specific right away (though that can definitely help). It can just be a group of people who are on a similar path—whether that’s in business, self-growth, or even learning something new like painting. And if you find yourself feeling alone in the process, feeling alone in a new endeavor is normal, just know that there’s a group of people out there somewhere who are in a similar boat. Having others around you who get it can make all the difference.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
Over the last 12 months, I’ve really focused on staying centered on my own business—on the services we offer, the clients we serve, the community we’ve built, and what happens within the walls of the studio. This shift has brought a new clarity about why we’re a valuable company to hire: we’re great at what we do, and we genuinely love it.
The noise of competition and the comparison game can easily steal your joy, and I’ve learned that the hard way. So, I’ve made it my goal that whenever my attention starts to wander, I bring myself back to what feels like home—our core offerings, what makes us unique, and why we’re so good at what we do. This helps me stay grounded and focused on how we can keep growing and improving in a way that stays true to our, and my, path. It connects with one of my main reasons for doing this in the first place: I want to write my own story.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thewildblume.com
- Instagram: @thewildblume
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewildblume/
Image Credits
1. Fran Ze Photography (headhsot with van)
2. Danielle Mullins Photography (bright ceremony space)
3, Danielle Mullins Photography (bright ceremony space)
4. Danielle Lopez Photography (flower crown workshop)
5. Danielle Lopez Photography (flower crown workshop)
7. David Clumpner Photography (big purple centperiece)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
