When it comes to weddings, every detail matters—from the venue to the dress to the smallest flower in the bouquet. But finding the perfect balance between beauty and budget can be a challenge.
Some of Sangeeta’s work
Enter Sangeeta, the creative mind behind Bridal Bouquets, a flourishing floral business that offers budget-friendly bridal arrangements.
A HUMBLE BEGINNING
During an interview with ThingsGuyana, this 30-year-old businesswoman recalled “living a simple lifestyle” as she grew up on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD).
Her childhood was filled with fun and mischief, something she looks back on fondly.
I was a wild child, which naturally resulted in disciplinary actions. But those experiences have shaped me into a resilient, decent, and respectable individual.
She attended a private school, where she completed her Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination. After completing CSEC, she became a teacher and secretary/bookkeeper at the same private institution.
This opportunity allowed me to dip my toes into the waters of employment, from which I have learned so much.
A NON-TRADITIONAL PATH TO SUCCESS
In all honesty, I am not a strong believer in academics; my belief lies in ‘capability.’
While she respects the importance of education, Sangeeta, who is pursuing her bachelor’s degree, said she values practical skills and learning through experience.
This practical mindset laid the foundation for the unintentional start of her business.
THE BIRTH OF BRIDAL BOUQUETS
Bridal Bouquets began without a business plan, no research, no financial forecast. It was an unexpected and unintentional endeavour that started with a simple observation and seizing an opportunity.
This West Sider’s love for creating unique items and knack for comparing prices led her to the floral industry.
I have a knack for comparing prices as I shop. I then began to do research to learn how to craft floral items, and that’s when the idea of customisation materialised.
Initially, she sold her creations at cost to gain publicity and foster awareness among potential customers.
At first, I intentionally sold at cost price. This was vital in the sense that it helped me attain publicity and pique the interest of potential customers.
SERVICES ROOTED IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Bridal Bouquets offers a range of services, including bridesmaids’ bouquets, corsages, rose wands, hoop bouquets, and brooches for groomsmen.
But what sets Bridal Bouquets apart from the competition?
I prefer not to compare. However, the one competitive edge I strongly believe in is incorporating immaculate customer service. Customers are vital to the survival of any establishment. They MUST be treated with importance, respect, reliability, clear information, punctuality, quality, and assurance.
This customer-centric approach is at the heart of every bouquet Sangeeta crafts. The process is meticulous, starting with a consultation to understand the client’s needs, preferences, and budget.
We then share photos of samples with the client to assess their likeness and preferences for any adjustments.
From there, a uniquely tailored quotation is drafted, and after securing a down payment, the customisation begins.
Clients are updated accordingly, and if any hindrances pop up, we consult with the client further.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES AND LOOKING AHEAD
Like any business, Bridal Bouquets has faced its share of challenges.
Colour perceptions and preferences have been a constant challenge. I’ve managed to mitigate this by showing clients the exact items I can procure.
Other challenges include losses from delinquent customers and last-minute changes, both of which Sangeeta has learned to navigate with grace and professionalism.
Despite these hurdles, this businesswoman said her passion for her craft remains unwavering.
To succeed, you must fail. Failure is the window to opportunities,” she advises aspiring floral business owners.
As for the future, Sangeeta has big plans.
There are two paths being considered for upcoming projects: one is to stick with the line of items but become more refined and specialised, or to expand my service/product along the events industry.
Her goal is for Bridal Bouquets to become a self-sustained business that can operate independently without external financial support.
The future plan is to have this establishment be self-sustained. I currently have a full-time job from which I get the finances to support my small business. This I would like to see transformed to have Bridal Bouquets stand on its own.
Contact information for Bridal Bouquets
- Telephone number: 592 681-2219
- Facebook: Bridal Bouquets
