In the heart of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, a unique floral design business is blossoming, setting itself apart with its commitment to sustainability and the creative genius of its founder, Celeste Leonard. Wild Woods Floral Design is redefining the floristry landscape by crafting stunning, one-of-a-kind arrangements from the wood of the sola plant. This approach not only showcases Celeste’s innovative design skills but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in the floral industry.
The Birth of Wild Woods Floral Design
Celeste Leonard embarked on her entrepreneurial journey under somewhat unexpected circumstances. Initially intended as a side project, Wild Woods became Celeste’s full-time passion following the closure of her previous employer, where she had honed her skills as a lead bridal designer. This unexpected turn of events propelled Celeste into the world of business ownership, armed with a truckload of inventory and a heart full of dreams.
What Sets Wild Woods Apart
What truly sets Wild Woods Floral Design apart is its commitment to customization and the use of unique materials. Celeste’s approach to floral design is anything but ordinary. She thrives on challenges and enjoys stepping outside the box to fulfill her clients’ wildest dreams, whether it involves incorporating feathers, rhinestones, or hand-painted Italian Ruscus that looks like it’s dripping with blood for a gothic wedding.
Celeste explains, “I wanted to be able to give people anything and everything they wanted.” This philosophy has led her to explore and innovate, using materials like the Sola plant from India to create breathtaking, sustainable, and completely customizable flowers.
Celeste’s Philosophy and Approach
At the core of Wild Woods Floral Design is Celeste’s belief in the power of personal connection. She doesn’t just create floral arrangements; she crafts stories and memories that last a lifetime. “I want to give the details. I want them to have exactly what they picture,” Celeste shares, highlighting her dedication to bringing her clients’ visions to life.
Her approach is evident in the unique requests she has fulfilled, from creating a fantasy flower for a proposal to painstakingly ensuring every petal is perfect. Celeste’s commitment to customization and her willingness to explore uncharted territories in floral design have endeared her to clients far and wide.
Growing the Business
Since its inception, Wild Woods Floral Design has experienced remarkable growth, fueled by Celeste’s hard work, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to her clients. From participating in local festivals to leveraging social media and word-of-mouth, Celeste has cultivated a loyal following in Mt. Juliet and beyond.
Her story is one of triumph over adversity, demonstrating that with passion and perseverance, it’s possible to turn a dream into a thriving business. “Last year was literally pedal to the metal all the time,” Celeste recalls, reflecting on the rapid growth and success of Wild Woods.
Looking to the Future
As Wild Woods Floral Design continues to flourish, Celeste looks to the future with optimism and excitement. She envisions further expanding her business, possibly venturing into a storefront that can serve as both a workshop and a showcase for her unique creations. However, at the heart of her plans is the desire to remain true to the ethos of Wild Woods – creating personalized, creative floral designs that speak to the heart.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
To those dreaming of starting their own business, Celeste offers sage advice: “Do all the things. Don’t be afraid to quit and start new. Fail and be okay with it.” Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, the willingness to embrace failure as a stepping stone, and the joy of finding one’s true passion.
Conclusion
Celeste Leonard and Wild Woods Floral Design stand as a testament to the beauty that emerges when creativity is unleashed. For anyone seeking a floral design that’s anything but ordinary, Wild Woods promises an experience that’s as unique and memorable as the arrangements Celeste lovingly crafts. In a world where the ordinary is often the norm, Wild Woods Floral Design is a breath of fresh, floral-scented air, inviting us all to imagine, explore, and celebrate the wild beauty that surrounds us.