We were lucky to catch up with Hayley Feyereisen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Hayley, thanks for joining us today. How did you scale up? What were the strategies, tactics, meaningful moments, twists/turns, obstacles, mistakes along the way? The world needs to hear more realistic, actionable stories about this critical part of the business building journey. Tell us your scaling up story – bring us along so we can understand what it was like making the decisions you had, implementing the strategies/tactics etc.

I started Wildflower by Hayley in 2018, when I was an event coordinator at a local restaurant. I hired myself to do the florals for events that requested them and that’s how it began. Fast forward to Covid hitting and I panicked. I put an ad out on Instagram offering free drop and go deliveries. Once families, especially moms home with their kids, got wind of it, it blossomed. Friend groups sent all their friends hand tied bouquets. I have gained so many new clients and the momentum hasn’t slowed down. Social media has had a huge impact on my business and clientele.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I got into the floral industry around 2005 when I first moved to the bay area. I worked as a nanny for a floral designer and she needed help one day and it just came naturally to me.. Before that, I knew nothing about flowers or how to even design an arrangement.

I feel since starting my business, I have created long lasting relationships not only with my clients but especially with the wonderful vendors at the San Francisco Flower Mart. I’ve also worked in the restaurant industry for years, so I know the importance of making everyone who supports you feel the same way.

I want all my current and future clients to know that quality, passion and love all go into each arrangement.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The best source of getting new clients has all been by word of mouth. Creating good relationships with existing clients, gains you new ones.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I am a single mom. Starting this and have it be my sole income was very scary. I work really hard, sometimes 7 days a week for months on end but I want my kids to know that hard work pays off. I want them to be proud of me and see that everything that I do is for them.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @wildflowerbyhayley

Image Credits
All photos taken by me