We recently connected with Jaclyn Pline and have shared our conversation below.
Jaclyn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Parents play a huge role in our development as youngsters and sometimes that impact follows us into adulthood and into our lives and careers. Looking back, what’s something you think you parents did right?
I’m so happy you asked this and what an excellent question it is! Life for me was interesting growing up as my father was sick with cancer and kidney disease most of my childhood. My mother was particularily strict on me when it came to school; making sure my studies were complete, I was passing my tests and getting help through tuturong when I needed it. To be honest, when I was younger I thought it was a pain in the butt, but I know she was hard on me out of the goodness from her heart only wanting the best for me. It was difficult to focus on studies when my father fell ill, but I learned to have a strong work ethic from both of my parents; especially my father as he was a Mortician and managed funeral homes in Baltimore, MD. One thing my mother did right from the start was recommend I take a floral design class at the local community college in Maryland. I thought she was nuts for bringing it up but come to find out 13 years later, it’s been one of the best decisions. From both of my parents, I was shown to never give up and chase after what you want in life.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers?
I am a certified floral designer who specializes in wedding florals in Raleigh, NC. In addition to that, I compete in flower competitions, am a member of the North Carolina State Florist Association and have a home-based business. I contribute to a few publications focusing on floral couture as well. One thing I am most proud of is when I achieved ‘CFD’ through the American Institue of Floral Designers in 2018. After earning a certificate in floristry in 2010, I wanted more so I took a hands-on flower evaluation earning a more recognized certification in the flower industry. Though my business focuses on weddings and special events, most know me for the flower couture I design.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
When building a reputation it is always wise to provide a good customer experience. I worked for many retail flower shops before starting my business and after seeing how many spoke to customers, I never wanted to be that way and have others speak badly of me. Though we cannot control how others react to us, we have all the control in the world for our actions. When selling a wedding, I am very transparent on what the client will get, I explain what happens if there are shipping delays, weather conditions to prevent flowers from being shipped to us and more. I sell a color scheme, a feeling and not exact flowers as nothing is promised in this life. That’s right , not even White Roses during a shortage. Clients know and understand why pricing is the way it is and I do my very best to deliver everything I speak of. Within the industry when I meet amongst my peers at conventions, I surround myself with positive designers and above all, I make it a point to deliver above and beyond what is expected.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
If you don’t start you’ll never finish, right? Making small changes in your life can certainly add up creating and large, lasting impact. One time I had to pivot in life and in business was after I got fired a week after my wedding. I was left with no job, questioning if marriage was even the right decision, where to move next and much more. In all avenues of my life, I had to pivot and do something quick. I started a business. The Skinny Vase. A name I’ve had since 2009! It was even my business in 2015 in S. Florida. For the better, I started a business once I got fired from a reail flower shop so that one day (and that is now) I could stay home with my daughter and make money doing what I love. It’s challenging like anything else in life, but change is good and I’m here for it until the next move I make.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theskinnyvase.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskinnyvase/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSkinnyVase
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclyn-pline-076270103/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheSkinnyVase
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcPqYyYpBd6njl5rskVezeQ
- Other: https://theskinnyvase.com/
Image Credits
Uncommon Stock Mary Gorry