My fourth Valentine’s Day as a florist was disheartening. Crazy flower costs, delivery hiccups and unreasonable demands left me mentally drained.
It was unwise of me to entrust the deliveries to one driver - a painful lesson learned. Most customers were understanding, but a minority were unkind. One even demanded a 10% refund because his message card was missing.
I didn’t mean to complain, but those words were the last straw that broke the camel’s back. After two days of accumulated stress, I broke down. It was around 11pm when the driver delivered the last bouquet.
I have encountered nastier customers and trickier situations before, but I have never grappled with such intense indignation. Did I over amplify my emotions due to exhaustion, or was I simply unwilling to let go?
Jan’s Floristry is my blood, sweat and tears; a dream come true. However, I have outgrown it as time passes. With a heavy heart, I regret to inform that Jan’s Floristry will stop operations from March to September 2022 as I take the time to deliberate if or how I want to continue moving forward.
A friend recently asked when was the best day of my florist’s life. Without hesitation, I replied the day I conducted my first workshop. There were other rewarding moments, but nothing beats sharing my love for flowers. The question evoked fond memories and a sense of pride.
I am grateful for a group of customers turned friends who believed in me when I doubted myself. Their support and encouragement brought me through some of the darkest moments. I hope my decision did not disappoint.
Jan’s social media channels will continue to be updated regularly with throwback floral pieces. I am also contactable at jansfloristry@gmail.com for any flower-related enquiries.
Ending off with a quote by A.A. Milne, “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”
It's goodbye for now.
Love,
Janelle