How has the COVID-19 situation impacted your business (positively or negatively)?

As a business operating mostly in the wedding industry, we came to a sudden halt in March. We also were unable to operate from our Flower truck, cart, or any of our other community pop-ups. This was pretty crushing at the time. Through it, we’ve seen new areas of growth that we can develop within our company and we are so excited to be moving in that direction soon!

How have you and your business/team adapted/innovated to the situation?

We are definitely still learning! One of the best things to come out of this is the push we’re making at our (mini) flower farm. We have 3.5 acres in Woodstock where we grow seasonal flowers and vegetables. During quarantine, we used this time to plant every single seed we could get our hands on! We’ve grown flowers in the past and offered them to our customers but this year will be a big push in the number, frequency, and variety — and we have quarantine to thank for that!

How have you prepared and led your team/employees?

It was a very strange time for us all. I feel that my team encouraged and led me more than I realized I needed. They encouraged me that this wasn’t anything anyone could help but it was just our reality right now. We have the most incredible team. They were patient, kind, and encouraging along the way. I feel like we’re going to come out of this stronger than ever and I have them to thank for that.

What new things/perspectives (or old ones reinforced) have you learned about yourself, your business, and/or your community?

I like to be in control, and that’s just not the way things work. This time was often about reminding ourselves that business plans and goals are so good and helpful but you have to hold them (and life!) in an open hand and be ready to move and adapt. What I have been SO blown away by is the amount of encouragement we’ve received from people in the community asking how they can help. It was so humbling to know that others are wanting to do what they can to keep you going. THANK you, Woodstock!

How have you stayed focused and positive?

The beginning of all this change was tough. We took time to just rest and adjust, emotionally. Working at weddings you have the weight of your sweet couple’s emotions around having to postpone their wedding day on top of your business taking a hit. Marc, my husband, and I went for runs as often as we could. We spent time praying and asking God to open doors. It really has been a refreshing though challenging time in life.

What are some encouraging thoughts or stories you have heard that have kept you grounded?

As I mentioned, the support the community has shown us and other businesses is incredible! We have a truly unique town in Woodstock and we’re so thankful for it. It’s been amazing to see all the social media campaigns from numerous wedding vendors we’ve worked with in the past supporting each other. We really are all in this together.

How can we as a community best support you during this tough time?

We SO appreciate your online orders, gift card purchases, and just spreading the word. We’re booking brides and grooms for this year and next and would love to be a referral for those couples in your life. You all are the best and we cannot wait to be back with you soon!

Visit them online at https://www.thewoodstockflowertruck.com/ or follow them on Facebook and Instagram @thewoodstockflowercompany.

Stay tuned for future stories as we continue to shed a light on local entrepreneurs from Waleska to Woodstock and in between to Ball Ground, Holly Springs, and Canton. We hope you are inspired by these stories and motivated to patronize and support these entrepreneurs together.

Have ideas, questions, or stories? Reach out to us at cherokeega.org or emailing us directly at info@cherokeega.org.