Two Years of Black Cat Bouquets

Two years ago today, I took the jump & filed my paperwork to officially open Black Cat Bouquets! It has been a wild two years full of changes for myself & my business. In that time, I graduated with my Bachelors, moved twice, & completely restructured my life. Black Cat Bouquets is growing so much faster than I could have ever hoped for, and I am so, so thankful to my community for supporting both me & my business.

How'd We Get Started?

Like many College Station transplants, I moved to Texas to go to school at Texas A&M University. I originally intended on majoring in Chemical Engineering, but 3 semesters into the program, I realized the careers in Chen were much different than expected. While shopping around for a different major, I took HORT 203: Intro to Floral Design with Mr. Bill McKinley. I fell in love during the first design lab (Bud Vases), and shortly thereafter changed my major to Horticulture Science.

My first design, 09/07/2021

I started working as an event coordinator & florist (among another small collection of jobs). During this time, I learned a lot about the industry and about people. After an unfortunate experience, I resigned from my position.

During this time I met my amazing partner, and with his support, I decided to take the leap. My search for other floral positions was unsuccessful, and I knew I wanted to be my own boss one day. I had just completed a Production & Management course, and I was enrolled in a Retail Floristry course. Instead of a hypothetical business, I used the syllabus to set the groundwork for Black Cat Bouquets. Not only did I get direct feedback from my professor, I also used my classmates' reactions to establish my services & target audience.

Starting my business while in school was... challenging, but I'm no stranger to an over-ambitious workload. Thankfully, the business grew faster than I could have ever dreamed! So when I graduated in December 2023, I was able to hit the ground running.

The Power of Community

Black Cat Bouquets wouldn't have the success it does without the Theatre Company of Bryan-College Station. I was cast in my first show in April 2021 - the first show back from the pandemic (shout out James & the Giant Peach). Through shows at TTC, I found community and created a family for myself. Within TTC, I found an abundance of love, passion, & creativity that gave me the strength to finish my degree and find my profession.

Our first Bride! (Photo by San Angel Photography)

Not only did I find community & inspiration within TTC, I found overwhelming support for Black Cat Bouquets. With permission from the board, I started selling mini-bouquets and single roses at each performance. Not only did this generate consistent revenue, I was also able to network & grow my connections as Black Cat Bouquets.

Many of my first customers were TTC patrons, and I am forever thankful for their generosity. Since I did my first show, I have navigated many difficult personal situations. I succeeded because the TTC community reminded me that there are so many kind, respectful, moral people out there; you just have to find them. Thank you for that gift, whether you knew you were giving it or not.

Why Floristry?

When I started Black Cat Bouquets, many (well-meaning) people cautioned me against pursuing a business in this industry. Granted, they're right. It's an oversaturated market, the product is perishable, and there isn't really a "flower culture" in America. I'm smart. I did my research. It is a very risky business.

I didn't care. I've always been a creative, and in my heart, I've always known I am an artist. I knew from my first design lab that I have something special, and I knew that I had the brains, grit, & willpower to make it happen. Flowers are simply the medium & method to share my artistry. And here we are! Two years and counting.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey, whether or not you've made a purchase. If you've listened to my elevator pitch, you've helped me learn and grow. Thank you for making my dreams a reality. Here's to many more years of beautiful blooms!

Sincerely, Addi <3