Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sarah Bardsley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sarah , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
I never initially had plans to be a floral designer it was just something I could naturally do. My mother as a florist so I was around it growing up. When it comes to learning I think the best way is actually do it hands on dirty nitty gritty work. I’ve worked in corner flower shops, nurseries , high end shops, freelanced for the best in the biz and some others that weren’t my style. I learned something new everywhere I worked.
The biggest skill for anyone in a creative industry whether you’re working for someone or have your own business is being adaptable to all styles of design and personalities , be able to bring the clients vision to life.
Sarah , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My business Petal and Peach is focused on creating earthy yet elevated floral arrangements for the most exquisite Charleston ,South Carolina and California weddings and intimate occasions. With the new addition of event styling which is totally my jam!! I think what sets me apart is totally bringing your vision to life with little guidance or detail. I think creatives like myself do our best work when we have full creative freedom
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Right when covid hit I was just getting back into design after a 5 year break . I was freelancing and got laid off that weekend in March. Everything was confusing and uncertain, Wondering if and when I will ever have a job I was quickly running out of money. One day In May I saw a little flower shop for sale and after a few conversations and just really why not I took control of my future and bought the shop and that’s how Petal and Peach was born.
It’s for sure been a roller coaster during covid some big lows and some big highs but I rode it out and now Petal and Peach is bi coastal serving San Diego and Charleston with a focus on wedding and event florals and building the styling side of the business.
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
Petal and Peach was funded with no capital. We paid cash for the shop I gathered the little money I had left and just continued to purchase in small amounts and put the profits back into the shop. I now work out of a home studio and and able support myself from the business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.petalandpeach.com/
- Instagram: @petalandpeachfloral