We recently connected with Sierra Driscoll and have shared our conversation below.
Sierra, appreciate you joining us today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later
Back in 2019, while I was living in Colorado, I began crafting a website and drafting a business plan for a floral shop and boutique idea. Reflecting on that time, I’m almost relieved I didn’t launch things then, unaware that I’d soon relocate to Florida. The thought of establishing a clientele and business there only to uproot and start anew here would have been tough. I believe things didn’t align back then for a purpose, leading me to start up here when I did. Throughout this journey, I’ve been incredibly fortunate, receiving immense support from family and friends. The warm welcome and generosity from the community here fill me with immense gratitude for all my supporters!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
It’s an absolute pleasure to meet you! I’m Sierra Driscoll, the proud owner of Oak & Rae Floral Co. My roots trace back to a charming, small mountain town in Colorado, Steamboat Springs. That’s where I met my husband. We later moved to the Denver area, lived there for a while, and in 2019, welcomed our oldest daughter. Just a year and a half later, feeling the pull to explore beyond our Colorado upbringing, we decided it was time for a change.
My husband swiftly landed a job in the Jacksonville area, prompting our move. While he set things in motion here, I tied up loose ends back in Colorado. A couple of months later, I joined him, and our new life began. The beach has always held a special place in my heart, and not long after settling in, our second daughter came into the world.
I’ve cherished being a stay-at-home mom—it’s my absolute favorite role, though undeniably challenging. Despite this, I’ve always sought additional outlets. Photography has been a passion of mine for over 12 years, but juggling shoots with my husband’s schedule and our little ones became increasingly impractical. Yet, the longing to do something with flowers persisted in my thoughts. It wasn’t until fall of 2022 that I cast aside those doubts and decided to pursue my dream. And in February 2023, the business was born!
My husband has always been my staunchest supporter, urging me to chase my wildest dreams. Naming the business took time, but I wanted it to hold deep significance. After much deliberation and some self-doubt, Oak and Rae Floral Co. emerged. The name is a tribute to my daughters, Oakley Veronica and Jorden Rae. They’ve joyously joined me in this venture, sharing my love for flowers. Truly, this is a dream realized!
Starting this business has been an indescribable investment of my soul. As other small business owners seek advice from me, it feels validating, as if I must be on the right track. To anyone contemplating following their dreams, I urge: DO IT. Stay persistent and never give up!
My services cover a broad spectrum, focusing primarily on events and Friday subscriptions. These subscriptions, available weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, make wonderful gifts, brighten desks, make a warm welcome for clients, or serve as a treat for oneself after a long week. For more information, follow us on Instagram or visit our website!
I’m thrilled to meet you and help breathe life into your floral vision!
How did you build your audience on social media?
While my following might not be enormous, what matters most to me is the unique and local community I’ve built. In just 9 months, I’ve welcomed over 1050 distinctive followers, connecting with local accounts and fostering engagement—many of whom reciprocate and begin engaging too. Striving to offer daily content, I aim to provide my followers with visually appealing posts that encourage interaction. Collaborating with other local small businesses is something I cherish, seeking partnerships that are mutually beneficial. Through these collaborations, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting numerous incredible small business owners, many of whom I now consider friends.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Social media stands as an incredible catalyst for business growth! I’m confident in stating that approximately 90% of my business has blossomed through these platforms. This growth has stemmed from not just my efforts in maintaining a robust presence, but also from cultivating meaningful connections. These connections often translate into word-of-mouth recommendations, further fueling business expansion.
Contact Info:
- Website: oakandraefloralco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakraefloralco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?viewas=100000686899395&id=100089238951797
Image Credits
Photographer: Charles Molton Photography Hair: Bella Grace Beauty MUA: krystina_pmu