Meet Mildred Petit | Social Worker & Event Decorator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mildred Petit and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mildred, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Often times, social media contributes to the unrealistic expectation of how entrepreneurship or building a career works, and this can cause us to fall into the trap of comparing our journey to others. That being said, taking risks has played a huge role in my life. I have learned as much if not more from my failures as well as my triumphs. When I was in school I took the risk pursuing a career that requires a lot of time and a lot of heart. Although I knew it would not be a lucrative career, I did know that it would a fulfilling one. By taking risks and continuing to dream, I have been able to live a life way beyond what I could have ever imagined. Because I have been willing to take the risk of investing in myself, this has given me the opportunity to build a small business from the ground up. During this process, I have learned that it is important to be gentle with yourself.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started off by studying social work at Barry University. Fortunately, I had great professors who were very encouraging on an academic and personal level. This has served as an example for me of how to support my clients in the community. My goal is to empower my clients so that they can succeed in their own lives. As I did internships, and worked in different positions I began to find my niche in the social work field. My passion was emboldened and it encouraged me to further pursue positions that aligned with my desire to help the underserved community. On this journey, of growing both personally and professionally, I began to really understand the concept of knowing your value and investing in yourself. These concepts have not only guided in my social work career but also in building my event decorating small business. What sets me apart in both of these fields, is that I strive to empower my clients to develop and pursue their own vision. For example, when it comes to a client’s event, I don’t want it to be my vision for their event. I am there to help them develop their own style in order to bring their vision to life. It certainly has not been easy, but I am thankful for every success and even every failure because each mountain and valley has its’ own beauty and purpose.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love showing people around Miami. Of course there are so many places that are just spectacular but I like to enjoy a mix of mainstream and not so mainstream Miami. I would start out with Coconut Grove, I don’t think we give enough credit to our precious gem. It’s exciting to see life flow back into the Grove because I think it’s such a beautiful part of the city. Starting off with my favorite breakfast place: Greenstreet. Taking a bike ride down Main Highway as turns into South Bayshore Road, maybe even all the way up to Vizcaya and maybe even check out Alice Wainwright Park. Maybe pop over to Casola’s for that huge slice pizza. Little Havana is a must! Ball and Chain is cool for happy hour because sunset in the back patio with all the trees and fans is a dream. I would definitely go to Pinolandia for some fritanga and then any ventanita for a cafecito and a guava and cheese pastelito. Also in Little Havana is Taquerias El Mexicano, which is the spot for tacos! That area has so much good homemade food it’s crazy, and of course it’s a more laid back vibe. If I wanted to dress up for some good drinks and views I’ve got a couple of places: Sugar in the East Hotel and Juvia in Miami Beach, because it is Miami after all. One thing I die for is the water views! For this I like to go walk around Brickell Key, behind the Intercontinental, Museum Park, Margaret Pace Park, Venetian Causeway, and South Point Park. Generally I stay away from South Beach but Nikki Beach is a great spot as well. When it comes to the beach, I really like Soundscape Park and the small boulevard that takes you in back of the hotels north of 17th street. The Fontainebleau is a cool resort to hang out in for the day to really catch the Miami vibes. We can’t forget Wynwood to check out the murals, especially in December when it’s Art Basel season. I mean there’s sooo many places, it’s hard to choose!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
It’s so hard to pick just one person! I definitely want to shout out to my mother, Mirtha Petit. It is so important to have a strong foundation and support system, and she has been just that. She has encouraged me throughout my life and especially when it comes to my career. And when I decided to start down the path of entrepreneurship, she again supported me.

Instagram: @a_touch_of_milly

Other: https://offerup.co/profile/atouchofmilly