When I reflect on the journey that brought me to where I am today, I see a path filled with growth, challenges, and unexpected opportunities. Starting in the diemaking and diecutting consumables industry over a decade ago, I could never have imagined that I would one day co-found a floral business, Stowers’ Flowers. Yet, here I am, finding immense joy and fulfillment in a venture that combines my love for creativity and my professional expertise. This journey has taught me that embracing career pivots can unlock parts of ourselves we didn’t know were waiting to bloom.
Starting Strong: Lessons from the Diemaking Industry
My professional journey began in July 2013, working in inside sales support in the diemaking and diecutting industry. It was a world of precision, problem-solving, and process—and I loved it. I quickly discovered my strengths in organization and relationship-building, which allowed me to progress into operations management. Overseeing inventory, customer service, and technology taught me how to juggle multiple responsibilities while keeping the big picture in mind.
Eventually, I transitioned into a sales leadership role, managing the Northeast Territory. Here, I developed a client-first approach, ensuring their success remained central to my work. Those years shaped me into a dependable, detail-oriented professional, and I’ll always be grateful for the skills and experiences I gained. But after more than a decade, I found myself yearning for something more personal—a creative outlet that felt deeply meaningful.
Recognizing the Need for Change
The decision to pivot my career wasn’t one I made lightly. Like many people, I had grown comfortable in my role. I knew the industry well, had built strong relationships, and felt confident in my abilities. However, there was a growing sense that something was missing—a spark that made me excited to jump out of bed in the morning.
As I reflected on what brought me joy outside of work, I kept coming back to my lifelong love of flowers. I’ve always found comfort in the beauty of nature, whether tending to my garden or admiring floral arrangements that brighten someone’s day. The idea of turning this passion into something tangible kept tugging at me until I decided it was time to take a leap of faith.
Building a Dream: Launching Stowers’ Flowers
In December 2024, my nephew and I co-founded Stowers’ Flowers. This wasn’t just a business venture—it was a chance to combine creativity with the operational expertise I had honed over the years. From day one, our vision was clear: to create stunning floral arrangements that bring joy and connection to our clients.
Starting a business was both exhilarating and daunting. While I had experience managing operations and building customer relationships, the floral industry came with its own set of challenges. Learning about flower sourcing, seasonal trends, and design techniques pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it also reignited my passion for learning. Every bouquet we create is a reflection of the care and attention we pour into our work, and seeing our clients’ faces light up has been the most rewarding part of this journey.
The Power of a Pivot: Creativity and Fulfillment
What I’ve learned through this career pivot is that stepping into something new can unlock parts of ourselves we’ve kept dormant. In my previous roles, creativity often took a backseat to structure and efficiency. Now, it’s at the heart of everything I do. Designing floral arrangements allows me to express myself in ways I never imagined, blending colors, textures, and shapes to create something truly unique.
This pivot has also brought a new sense of fulfillment. Beyond the joy of creating, I’ve discovered how much I value the connections we make through our business. Whether it’s a bride trusting us with her wedding flowers or a client ordering an arrangement to comfort a loved one, these moments of connection remind me why I took this leap in the first place.
Embracing Growth and Change
If you’re considering a career pivot, I encourage you to embrace the possibilities it holds. Change can be intimidating, especially when it means stepping away from something familiar. But it can also be an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and renewed purpose. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way:
- Listen to Your Passions: Pay attention to what brings you joy and fulfillment outside of work. Often, your hobbies and interests can point you toward a path that aligns with your true self.
- Leverage Your Skills: Even if your new venture feels worlds apart from your previous career, you’ll find that many of your skills are transferable. My experience in operations and customer service has been invaluable in running our floral business.
- Be Open to Learning: A pivot is an opportunity to expand your horizons. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and immerse yourself in your new field.
- Trust the Process: Success doesn’t happen overnight. Give yourself grace as you navigate the challenges of starting something new, and celebrate the small victories along the way.
Looking Ahead
As I reflect on my journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences that brought me here. My time in the diemaking industry laid the foundation for the businesswoman I am today, while Stowers’ Flowers has allowed me to step into a more creative and personal role. This blend of past and present has been the key to finding balance and fulfillment in my work.
Life is full of seasons, and each one offers an opportunity to grow and bloom in new ways. Whether you’re considering a career pivot or simply looking for inspiration to reignite your passions, know that it’s never too late to pursue what truly lights you up. Sometimes, all it takes is the courage to plant a new seed and watch it flourish.