Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura English.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I found my calling at a very young age. I work with flowers! I am fortunate to say I have been doing for the last 45 years, I worked at my parent’s flower shop for 40 of those years. But now, I am excited to say, I work for myself! On June 1, 2012, I started “Laura’s Flowers”!
Please tell us about your art.
I create memories! Memories that will be remembered for some people, for the rest of their life! I take brides’ “little girl dreams” and create their vision for a grown up wedding. I am a designer. I work with flowers. I make flowers speak a language when words can’t be spoken to express one’s feelings. I give families in sorrow, beauty and comfort in creating what is the final gift to their loved one. I help remind people they are thought of and are important. I brighten up days for people who are sad and lonely, I enjoy the challenge to turn frowns upside down.
I do so, because I LOVE it! I get the opportunity to work with some of the most beautiful flowers ever grown from around the world. What’s not to love about that?! As hard as it is for me to say, I am good at it, or at least that is what others tell me. I guess you could say flower design is in my blood, since my mom has the same talent. I got bit by the flower bug the moment I watched her make an arrangement as a child.
What should you know about my artwork? I would have to say, a few of the most common misconceptions about this business are: “it must be so fun and easy to do this” and “Oh, you get to play with pretty flowers all day long”! Easy? No, not in the least. It’s messy, It’s dirty. It’s long hours. It’s hard. It can be a tough financially. It’s working weekends and holidays, early mornings and late nights. Fun? Some days. Other days, not so much. It can be stressful. Waiting for flower shipments to come in precisely; hoping the market pulled the accurate color for an order that was placed 4 weeks in advance. Or weather might be the reason for a delay in the arrival of product, since flowers come by plane, half way around the world. Or the box of flowers are caught in customs or didn’t even make the flight. Stressful things that are totally out of your control. But you still have to produce the product. Play with flowers? Nope. In a hobby, you get to play. In a business, you don’t have that luxury. Every little thing costs money. And if you are not careful, watching “the bottom line”, you won’t be in business very long.
*My hope for people is to understand that real flower design comes not only from the talent but also from the heart. I pour so much of me into every piece I create. It doesn’t matter if it is a single flower in a bud vase or an elaborate one of a kind arrangement. Every item is unique because the person giving it and the person receiving it have a story and I am lucky enough to be a part of that (story)!
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
My advice for anyone who is in a creative, artistic path is to understand that there are always risks involved in starting or owning a business. But with risk there is also great reward. It takes time, dedication and perseverance to make this journey. It is not for the weak. There is truly a difference between a job and a hobby. Also know that you are stronger than you think you are and any obstacle can be a roadblock or a bump. It is up to each person to decide its size and how the obstacle should be handled. Don’t become defeated. Know that every day can be “the” turning point of one struggling. The phrase “it takes a village to raise a child: is true. It also takes a village to help and support a business. If the support isn’t there, and you tried, know that it does not mean you failed. What it does mean is that you had the guts to give it your all and it was a great journey while you were on it.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can come to see me at :
Laura’s Flowers
324 W Indian Tr
Aurora, Il 60506
or, visit my website,
www.laurasflowersinc.com
Contact Info:
- Address: 324 W Indian Tr
Aurora, Il 60506 - Website: laurasflowersinc.com
- Phone: 630-486-1424
- Email: laurasflowersinc@gmail.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/laurasflowersinc/
Image Credit:
Large Entry Arrangement: Authentic Adventure Co.
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
