Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Chamberlin.
Cynthia, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My interest in floral design began in 4-H during junior high. Photography became a passion in high school. By junior college, I had changed my major several times until I was accepted to the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. I had to decline due to financial reasons but received a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in photography at the University of Arizona. As a single female, I took the safe route of an office job with health benefits after graduation. I spent most of the next eleven years working in the accounting department for different law firms/attorneys. It wasn’t until after my second child was born and I quit office life that Stemtations began. Once my oldest started school I became very involved which led me to become an art docent. I started teaching large groups of children art. Somewhere in there, my husband’s boss asked if I’d be interested in installing plants in their office and maintaining them. Once that started, I got in touch with the last office I had worked in downtown and that started the plant service side of the business. A PTA event at a brewery opened up the doors for workshops and our expanding network in the San Diego Craft Beer world. A wedding done purely at cost helped get our foot in the door and something to get the portfolio going.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Being a small business owner is not always easy, but it’s rewarding. Profitability is still the hardest struggle. The best part of the job is meeting and networking with other fabulous business owners. The lack of paycheck can be daunting, but you have to take it day by day. You must be content with who you are, and the product you produce. Comparing yourself to others is the quickest way to fail.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Stemtations San Diego – what should we know?
Stemtations is listed as a plant/floral design and service, but I’m very diversified in my interests. The area I currently specialize in is succulent based workshops. This has led to many business relationships in the San Diego Craft Beer community which I’m very excited about. I’m always striving to provide the best workshop experiences for my participants. I want to give them good materials, a project that lasts for the time allotted, and at the most affordable price possible. It’s not always easy coming up with new ideas.
Stemtations also likes event design and weddings. So far, 2018 has the most weddings on a calendar and I’m very excited about that!
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
I can’t think of an artistic person who hasn’t had someone else inspire, and/or mentor them. It’s not to say a person isn’t born artistically, but we all need others to help develop our talents. I was fortunate growing up to have mentors that helped with my floral skills and photographic talents. If you don’t anyone you can always find mentors in clubs, organizations, schools and businesses.
The fastest way to network is getting involved in something besides your business. You may end up doing a bit of pro bono work, but you’d be amazed at the doors that open up.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stemtationssandiego.com
- Email: stemtations.sd@gmail.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/stemtations_san_diego
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemtations.sd/
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