Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Fernandez
Hi Cynthia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory
FLOR•EN•CIA was inspired by my grandmother, Adela Florencia, who was born and raised in Cuba and came to the US in 1962. My grandma loved gardening and taught me everything I know and love about flowers and life. A few months after she passed away, I was inspired to start FLOR•EN•CIA, an online floral design studio, with the mission to inspire love and creativity across San Diego County and beyond. Our goal is to create beautiful and inspiring work for each and every one of our clients, from installations, events, memorable occasions, weddings and more.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
We started FLOR•EN•CIA in January of 2020, and like any new business we were testing the waters with product assortment and variety, trying to grasp what worked and what didn’t. For our first Valentine’s Day, we had a total of 10 orders, it felt like we were starting to find our groove. We had a few events lined up for March, and had an installation under our belt. We were so excited about what the year was going to bring, and all the amazing people we were going to meet. Then one by one the events got cancelled, orders were put on hold, and it seemed like our new business was going nowhere. The pandemic really took a toll on us for the first few months, it felt like we were being told no by the universe, but we never gave up. We waited for restrictions to be lifted, and while we waited we strategized on ways to keep the business going. We focused on our mission, which is to inspire love and creativity in our community. With the health and safety of our clients and staff in mind, we found ways to source and deliver our flowers contact free. Being able to brighten up someone’s day has really kept us going through all of this, and we are extremely grateful to our growing community.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have a background in marketing and event management, and currently I am pursuing a degree in Art History from San Diego State University. Floral design has always been something that I have loved and admired since I was young. Spending time with my abuela in her garden, watching her care for every flower, plant, and seed. She would describe to me each rose and it’s origin, tell me stories of her beautiful garden in Cuba, and all of the delicious fruit trees she had. I have so many amazing memories related to flowers and plants, that I feel so much peace working in the floral industry. I am so proud of the obstacles I have been able to achieve this year, both in my personal life and with FLOR•EN•CIA. From starting a business during a pandemic, to going to school full time, plus working a full time job, without the support of my family and close friends, I’m not sure how I would be able to keep it all together.
What makes you happy?
What makes me the happiest is spending time with my son and husband, whether we are sitting at home watching a movie, playing video games, or at the park, those are the moments that I cherish the most. Family is so important to me, and they really keep me grounded.
Contact Info:
- Email: cm@florenciaflorals.com
- Website: https://florenciaflorals.com/
- Instagram: @florenciaflorals
Image Credits
Blazing Suns Entertainment Brenda Nuñez Photography
