From Passion to Petals: Stephanie’s Floral Journey
Me in Victoria, British Columbia - hard to see me amongst the Rhododendron.
My oh my…
Do you ever think about something – over and over, thinking it can’t be for you. “My path” is something else. It’s okay, I am good at doing what I do. But you still have those thoughts – could it be me? I spent 25+ years in Marketing Leadership roles for great companies, blessed with opportunities, friends and financial support for my family. It was my identity for so long, I wouldn’t change much of it, it ran its course. I have amazing talents, great learnings, some tough ones too. I moved on. Could it now be that something I think about that is next?
I tried a few things along the way, custom closet designer, fashion shows, real estate. I worked in a floral shop – so enjoyed it and learned so much from someone so talented.
I listened to my husband (took some convincing) and family and friends – give yourself a break. A reset. It will come when you free up your mind and give things meant for you time to present itself. Faith and fate took over.
I have ALWAYS been a flower lover, grower, gardener, designer. Designing my own arrangements, for friends and family parties, daughter’s wedding and then a dear friend and her daughter wanted me to do their wedding. I knew I could. I would kill it. So, I did. I enjoyed every single second of it. Planning, buying the floral inventory, cleaning flowers with friends and a fellow designer. Attending the wedding and seeing the joy and beauty my work brought was the absolute best.
Confidence grew. The something could happen…it was happening. A friend on my golf league said “Why don’t you just do your own thing?” It was the something. She struck the cord in me with her words, unknowingly.
I did the something in September of 2025 – Petals & Leaves Florals, the name I came up with years ago. My daughter created the logo. I launched it on social media.
Today we are here. Busy from day one – birthdays, funerals, holidays, weddings, showers… I am taking Design classes and joining the professional organizations to support my work.
I appreciate those who deeply get this story. My husband for saying “Just do it…” My parents both gone for 20+ years, for teaching me about gardening from a young age.
Believe in the something you think about that no one really understands. It can be you.
In flowers,
Stephanie
PETALS & LEAVES FLORALS