Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Valentin.
Hi Michelle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I always wanted to be a creative entrepreneur. After being burned out from working a full-time 9-5 and going to grad school, I started to evaluate my life. I knew that working at a desk job and later, working as a full-time school psychologist was not going to be fulfilling for me. Being creative has always been something that I have been good at, involved with, and an outlet from the mundane every day. I always knew that I enjoyed business! I’ve been selling mud pies and grass since the 90s! (haha) My business spirit definitely started since I was young. For many years I knew that I enjoy the event industry and enjoy creating with my hands. At first, I thought I wanted to become a wedding planner, then I learned it wasn’t for me. In late 2021, I started to learn more about flowers and educate myself on how to care and design with them. I think fear really held me back for a long time. Fear of starting what I really wanted to do and fear that maybe I wouldn’t be good at running my own business. On Jan 17, 2022, Flor & Soul was official! I’m super grateful for all my friends and family who have supported me and believed in me.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Definitely being afraid of starting… Once I got started it became easier. Some other challenges included learning about marketing and how to run a business. I have always been interested in problem-solving and how could I make systems that make the process easier.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Floral Designer who specializes in weddings and special events. I am known for my unique natural and whimsical style. I have had many people comment and say that they enjoy my arrangements for that reason. I am most proud of starting something out of nothing and not letting fear get in the way of what I really wanted to do. I think what sets me apart from others is that I get inspired from nature for my design and my business. I really want my business to also show that life can be joyful, peaceful, and beautiful all at the same time.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Communication, networking, confidence, and marketing
Contact Info:
- Website: www.florandsoul.com
- Instagram: flor_soul_
Image Credits
Stephanine Lanni
Lisa Vaquera
