Today we’d like to introduce you to MG Icaza.
Hi MG, We are so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I hail from Ecuador and moved to Florida 14 years ago, following the path of love with my high school sweetheart. A decade in South Florida was a chapter, but seeking change led us to Eustis, Central Florida. Two years in the restaurant industry have shaped my professional life until the arrival of our daughter, Magnolia. Choosing to retire, I prioritized being present in her life. Roots and Flora emerged as an online haven for local hand-crafters and a personal endeavor to empower moms globally. The initial goal was clear – working from home and savoring precious moments with my daughter. Yearning for genuine customer connections, ‘Teemo The VW,’ our 1975 vintage single-cab Volkswagen, became our mobile retail hub, hosting pop-ups around Lake County. A year later, ‘Yolee The VW,’ our second 1975 single-cab Volkswagen, joined our fleet, amplifying the charm of our journey.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Balancing Roots and Flora with family life has been a rewarding yet challenging journey. While building the business, finding that delicate equilibrium between entrepreneurship and motherhood has been a constant effort. The most significant sacrifice has been the time away from my daughter during pop-ups and markets. Each event is an opportunity for Roots and Flora to flourish, but it comes with the bittersweet challenge of temporarily sacrificing precious moments with my baby. However, it’s a sacrifice made with a greater purpose – to create a business that sustains itself and allows me to be an active part of my daughter’s life. Finding this balance has been a continuous learning process, but the resilience gained through these struggles has been instrumental in the growth of Roots and Flora.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As the creative force behind Roots and Flora, I specialize in bringing to life unique fresh flower arrangements, dried florals, and captivating moss creations. What sets us apart is not only our commitment to crafting bespoke pieces that infuse nature into indoor spaces but also the collaborative spirit that defines our journey. Working alongside Alba, my talented mother-in-law, whose expertise in the plant field has been an invaluable support, we blend creativity and horticultural insight. Together, we’ve cultivated a unique approach, enhancing our offerings with ‘Teemo The VW’ and ‘Yolee The VW,’ charming mobile retail hubs available for private events, such as weddings, baby showers and more. Picture your special occasions adorned with fully stocked fresh flowers, creating enchanting and memorable atmospheres. We actively collaborate with local artisans, fostering a sense of community that elevates the vibrant tapestry of our creative landscape. At Roots and Flora, we don’t just create; we cultivate experiences and connections that celebrate the beauty of nature and the strength of our local community.
How do you think about luck?
Luck, both good and bad, has influenced my journey. Fortunate opportunities have contributed to the success of Roots and Flora, while challenges have required resilience. Balancing the unpredictability of life and business involves a mix of chance and determination.
Pricing:
- Fresh Flower Bouquets from $20 and up
- Make your bouquet: starts at $2 per stem (you can pick as many stems as you like)
- Potted plants starting at $15
- Moss and dried floral art starting at $35
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rootsandflora.com
- Instagram: @rootsnflora
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rootsandflora?mibextid=YMEMSu
Image Credits
Stephen Salvatore, Alison Law Photography
