Ali Chrisler

Who are you and what do you do?

I'm a third generation florist--both my grandmother and mother owned flower shops in my hometown. Though I'm a trained researcher (I have a PhD), I've always been interested in tapping into my creative side. When I had a miscarriage about a year ago, it really threw me for a loop. When I was evaluating where I was in my life, I decided to leave my job and pursue this business endeavor. I've always wanted to start a small business and decided this was the best way to start. I come from a line of small business owners (my grandmother, dad, mom, step-dad, brother, aunt, and uncle). I've always said that I would much rather fail trying than to have never tried at all.

What did it take / how did you get started?

I knew I didn't want a brick and mortar store. I know many think this is the marker of success but I disagree. Storefronts are limiting and keep you bound to one location. I wanted the shop to be mobile so I pursued a mobile flower shop. Many mobile flower shops/flower trucks are big vintage trucks. However, because I am in DC, I knew it needed to be small. So, my brother found examples of mini trucks. I found an importer in Miami that had a mini Japanese truck. I bought it sight unseen and that was the start of my business!

What does the future look like for you and your hustle?

The great part of a small business is that it can be as small or large as you want it to be. I like the flexibility!

What drives / motivates you?

I like being able to see how my hard work pays off!

What advice would you give someone interested in doing what you do?

Be very strategic about your startup costs. I did a lot on my own to save costs--for example, I built my own flower cooler and the flower setup on the back of my truck. I have no experience building anything. I watched YouTube videos, bought a miter saw and electric screwdriver, and told myself that I could do it! By keeping your startup costs down, it allows you to leave the hustle if it's not a good fit.

What has been the hardest part of the hustle?

Surprisingly, the pandemic launched my business because I pivoted from outdoor truck events to contactless deliveries. As DC, Maryland, and Virginia continue to open, I am doing more truck events. The hardest part of this business is how isolating it can be. Luckily, there is a group of mini flower truck owners on Instagram that I have connected with. It's helpful to bounce ideas off of others who have a similar business model.

Also, this is not a glamorous business. People often say, you get to play with flowers all day! That is so not true! I spend most of my time cleaning my home studio and flower buckets, driving around the city doing deliveries, and responding to emails.

What are a few resources that you'd recommend?

Not provided.