Sharmila Gokel Garg, Owner of Parties & Petals
1. What is your business?
I own Parties & Petals, a boutique floral and event design company. We specialize in lush, modern designs inspired by the style, personality, brand or vision of our Clients. We provide flowers and decorative elements for corporate clientele as well as for all types of celebrations including weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, bridal showers, parties, etc. Check us out at www.parties-petals.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/partiespetals.
2. Why did you launch this business?
I have always loved all aspects of parties from picking a theme, to finding unique design elements such as invitations and decor, concocting cocktails and enjoying time with friends. I spent a summer in San Francisco, where I worked on wedding flowers for an incredibly busy event design company, and was hooked. I loved all aspects of the job, including meeting with new clients, dreaming up floral schemes and most of all, working with flowers. I knew then that this was a passion that I needed to turn into a career.
3. What gives you your greatest pleasure in your business?
The greatest thrill for me is the moment of the big reveal, when I see the look on my Client’s face-a mix of excitement, pleasure and gratitude at seeing the floral decor and overall atmosphere that I have created for his/her event.
4. Where have you run into challenges in your business?
I have run into many challenges, mainly networking. When I started, I was incredibly shy and intimidated. I found it difficult to attend networking events and to talk about my business and myself. I have made some progress but God knows I still I have a way to go! Other challenges run the gamut from daily operations, advertising decisions, how to grow, hiring personnel, finding time to do all of the things I need to do and relinquishing control.
5. What’s your fantasy flower story?
Ooh! That is a hard one-so many ideas, so many things. For starters, perhaps a wedding at a vineyard in Italy, with a reception in a palazzo with lots of flowers, overhead in floral chandeliers, on the tables, EVERYWHERE! Bright colors, complete creative freedom and an unlimited budget. I am drooling just thinking of it. Is that too much? You did say fantasy… :)
6. If you could give small businesses one piece of advice, what would it be?
Find people whom you respect and trust to bounce ideas off of. Before finding SMARTY, I relied on friends and family (especially my husband!) for advice. While their support has been invaluable, it helps to speak to other individuals in the same boat as you, who are facing or have overcome similar challenges. I am so grateful for what I have learned and gained through SMARTY, and fortunate to have an entire network of fabulous, intelligent women who are willing to help, as well as workshops and courses that address the specific issues I need help with.
