Rachel Murphy of Rachel Lynn Studio
How did you start your business?
Right out of college, I had a very demanding job with a nonprofit that consisted of running a barn and large programs and events for all ages. In the midst of that, I found myself helping friends who were getting married with flowers, décor and more, just for fun. I left my job after six years and knew I wanted to try running my own business. It seemed to be a natural progression to start a business around something I really enjoyed doing.
How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I left a job that truly had taken over my life for quite a period of time, and really did some soul searching. In the meantime, I was pregnant with my first child and needed a little extra income. I started working part-time for a local florist to gain experience in the floral industry, and I had friends getting married who wanted my creative advice. I’d start by just helping friends with flowers and end up planning the whole wedding. After I gave birth to my son, I decided it was time to venture on my own and start my own business.
What resources here did you take advantage of and how did they help?
My parents, Dawn and Michael Schwartzman, have actually been a huge resource for me. They have been running a business together in corporate design and interiors my entire life. Good design was part of my upbringing, and I learned at a young age what it takes to run your own business. They have given me great advice and encouragement, and they have even been my labor force at a wedding or two!
I also try to take advantage of any business owner I run into and ask their story of how they got started. It’s pretty amazing that many successful entrepreneurs didn’t take the traditional “business plan” approach to starting a business.
What would you do differently if you started your business again?
I don’t think I’d do much differently. I needed to go through the journey to get where I am now, and I know there is still an adventure ahead.
What’s next for you and your company?
My immediate goal is finishing my website. Along with that, I’ll be working on solidifying the look and brand of Rachel Lynn Studio to attract the right clients to work with while upping my social media output. Otherwise, I’m looking forward to creating more unique events and weddings!
Interview by Robin Donovan