We had the good fortune of connecting with Makenna Carpenter Birch and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Makenna, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was lucky enough to grow up in the beautiful town of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. I’ve actually only lived in Florida for a few weeks now, and I’m still getting used to the differences!

The literal “where” I come from isn’t nearly as important as the “who”. I’m blessed with two amazing parents that have supported me in all my endeavors and loved me unconditionally, even when I make mistakes. They raised me to believe in a God that created me in His image and blessed me with talents that can bring joy to others – that’s one of the reasons I love floral design.

I know that I wouldn’t be the person I am today without my parents. My dad is an incredibly hardworking man, and he’s caring and considerate of any person that’s lucky enough to know him. These are characteristics that I think help make a successful business owner, and I’m constantly trying to live up to his genetics.

My mom is a force of nature in both her personal and professional life. I think she should be queen of the world, but unfortunately I don’t get to choose. She cares deeply for the people around her, but she also knows her worth and isn’t afraid to fight for herself. I hope to be more like that as I grow as a businesswoman.

I’m incredibly grateful for the people and circumstances that raised me, I know that I’m a better person because of them!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m incredibly blessed to be a wedding florist, it’s quite literally my dream job. The journey to get here hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth it!

I think I’m most proud of the fact that I started this business in the first place – it was an impulse decision on a random May night in 2021, and I often wonder where I’d be if I hadn’t. It’s given me the opportunity to develop confidence, better social skills, and a network of friends that I’m constantly grateful for.

That’s not to say that I’ve been confident the whole time! I constantly struggle with imposter syndrome and comparing myself to other florists. One of my biggest personality flaws is a lack of patience – I want to be fully booked and successful RIGHT NOW. Moving to Florida and starting over has been a huge obstacle that I may not overcome for months, but I know that it will happen in God’s timing as long as I’m putting in the work.

I’ve learned so many lessons and life skills from owning a business, and people would probably get bored of reading this if I listed them all. I mainly want people to know that it’s okay to keep learning and having questions throughout your career! I’m constantly trying to become a better person and better business owner, because it’s important to me that I’m always able to bring joy to my customers through flowers.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I think I need someone from Miami to answer this question for me, since I’m still so new! I would definitely want to spend multiple days at the beach, I love the sunshine and I have an extensive swimsuit collection (by which I mean “addiction”). I’d love to go to a basketball or soccer game, like the Miami Heat or Inter Miami – maybe both! It would be fun to go shopping in Miami, then get dinner at a local place with food I’ve never tried before.

I haven’t been to many Florida restaurants yet, but I recently had my first Waffle House & Pollo Tropical and both were amazing! Idaho is missing out.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who can take some credit for where I am in life. My parents, who raised my siblings and I to be the best versions of ourselves. My loving husband Tyler, who supports me unconditionally and is willing to help me whenever I need it. My Floral Design teachers at BYU-Idaho and my mentor Lily have taught me so much and helped me become a better florist. And none of this would be possible without the God I believe in – I know He loves me and I’m eternally grateful for that knowledge.

Website: https://makennarenefloral.com/

Instagram: @makennarenefloral

Image Credits
Avalin H Photography
Morgan Shea Photography
Tiffany Sukola Imagery
Sarah Noel Photography
Emily Haroldsen Photography
Earthbound Couples

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