My Financial Reality of Flower Farming : Investment vs. Profit

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  • Опубликовано: 6 янв 2021
  • Hi Flower Friends. Every day I have people asking me if flower farming is profitable. Is this my only job? How much money do I make? I have always hesitated to reveal any numbers because I was always raised to believe that income isn't something to be discussed publicly-- but I feel strongly compelled to show people the reality of how much money is made versus my investment. I see so many people wanting to walk away from full time jobs in order to grow and sell flowers. Starting a small business- ANY business- takes time to grow. I just wanted to be honest and show anyone who is hoping to take this on the reality of running a small business. There are always exceptions to the rule- -but this is my reality. Cheers to 2021.
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Комментарии • 969

  • @camfleming3191
    @camfleming3191 3 года назад +204

    You may not think your a master, but to any of us just starting out, your knowledge and candidness is invaluable! Thank you for sharing!

  • @hellome12345
    @hellome12345 3 года назад +267

    As a finance professional I will say that traditionally talking about finances was a taboo thing but its a really important topic for people to be transparent about as it allows others to learn and increase financial literacy amongst the population so its nice to see this video. It's hard work and your dedication is well noticed 😊 do you have any videos about how to increase vase life or how to have your flowers look professional? I grow flowers for myself and they always look like ragtag flowers and not store bought!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +22

      I use Chrysal flower food -- trim stems every couple days and change the water often. Thanks for your insight!

    • @lanalovesjesus6133
      @lanalovesjesus6133 3 года назад +30

      And its helping people understand why they pay so much for bouquets

    • @ElderandOakFarm
      @ElderandOakFarm 3 года назад +4

      @@lanalovesjesus6133 yes!

    • @ElderandOakFarm
      @ElderandOakFarm 3 года назад +11

      I recommend the books "Cut Flower Garden" & "A Year In Flowers" & checking out books at your local library! They surprisingly have a lot on flower farming!

    • @eurekamarijka
      @eurekamarijka 3 года назад +15

      May I add that if you need help dealing with finances, are starting a business or, like me, grew up in a house where it was ‘not polite’ to talk about money, I highly recommend “Financial Peace”
      by Dave Ramsey. Straight talk, great info about getting your money under control, practical plans for paying off debt, and truly can bring peace. It changed my life, and I share it any time $$ comes up like a broken record. 😆❤️

  • @YouCantEatTheGrass
    @YouCantEatTheGrass 3 года назад +114

    So important to share the reality! Great and kind video. I see those posts on Flower Farmer of people quitting their high paying jobs with high expectations, and get messages, and get nervous for everyone. Farming is highly satisfying, but not a get rich scheme. Thanks for the shout out!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +9

      Don't we know it! I am also so nervous seeing those posts. Ah! We do it because we love it.

    • @giovannicassaro6939
      @giovannicassaro6939 3 года назад +9

      I appreciate what both of you all do. We grow produce mostly and experiment with new crops each year. This year we have begun to grow different types of turmerics and gingers, but I have been inspired to grow flowers by watching your all’s videos. I have a sweet elderly neighbor who I used to create bouquets of wildflowers for and thought I would like to try my hand at creating them for others as well. Thank you both for the inspiration!

    • @Victoriaxx08
      @Victoriaxx08 3 года назад +2

      Love both of your channels! Thanks everyone for sharing your real numbers. It’s important to know the realities

    • @wendybedrosian5327
      @wendybedrosian5327 3 года назад +1

      @@FlowerHillFarm can you tell us more about your porch sale? How did you do that? Did you charge per stem? Or have one price for a set amount of stems?

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      Per stem! All different prices 💐

  • @kuban6659
    @kuban6659 3 года назад +44

    As a gardener in a family-driven nursery my granpa started we have a saying: some people go to the casino to gamble......we buy flowers and seeds. :-) Keep going, it will get better as your reputation gets better. Greetings from Germany.

  • @stephaniem999
    @stephaniem999 3 года назад +82

    The best thing about this video is that it is relatable for anyone starting a business, it doesn't have to be the same business. I'm going much slower than you and my business isn't in flowers but this is how it is.

  • @BlackWhiteandTheGrays
    @BlackWhiteandTheGrays 3 года назад +64

    I can totally see why you didn’t want to make this video. It’s the nitty gritty of it all that not many want to talk about. I found it extremely encouraging and helpful. It’s so much work and definitely a passion. We are market gardeners/flower farmers in a zone 3. It’s nice to see a flower farm in a short season like us. Thanks for the details!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +3

      You're very welcome!

    • @BlackWhiteandTheGrays
      @BlackWhiteandTheGrays 3 года назад +1

      @@FlowerHillFarm ❤️

    • @chrkozura
      @chrkozura 3 года назад +1

      An excellent video. The alternative selection on youtube is, "made $200,000+ on 1 acre!!!!" scams. The simple reality is that farming isn't terribly profitable.

  • @ktihaajl
    @ktihaajl 2 года назад +14

    This was INCREDIBLY informative and not at all boring! Thank you for being so open!

  • @eurekamarijka
    @eurekamarijka 3 года назад +38

    Smartest freaking video I’ve seen in ages, and you did a GREAT job handling a topic many people find uncomfortable! I’ve been an entrepreneur and worked for several, and many never seem to be able to juggle the practical with the dreams, which is why so many fail. Kudos for putting this out there!

  • @dustyacres
    @dustyacres 3 года назад +9

    Wasn't boring at all. Thanks for your candor. We had a business for 17 yrs and everyone thought we were so rich...yeah right. But we enjoyed the run and miss it at times...A lot of Mom and Pop businesses are labor of love

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      Thank you! Mom and Pop businesses are the best and I truly wish more people would support them!

  • @jenhofmann
    @jenhofmann 3 года назад +10

    I was a small business advisor for over a decade and helped people launch new businesses. This video is FULL of wisdom and smarts. Thanks for sharing your experience!

  • @Annathranholm
    @Annathranholm 3 года назад +21

    I don’t think people in general know the work you have to put in to grow flowers and plants. So when you really think about that, plants and flowers is pretty cheap. Thankyou for sharing all this ♥️

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      I agree! Thank you 💐

    • @CauselessBliss
      @CauselessBliss 2 года назад

      @@FlowerHillFarm What's CSA or CFA, I wasn't sure what you were referencing? Thanks for this informative video.

  • @litaapreston9605
    @litaapreston9605 Месяц назад

    Not boring!! A reality check is so important. Thank you so much for sharing this. Zone 8 flower gardening is my passion.

  • @MicheleLHarvey
    @MicheleLHarvey 2 года назад +5

    This is a great video for anyone with a dream! It reminds me of Gladwell's 10,000 hour rule ("it takes 10,000 hours of intensive practice to achieve mastery of complex skills and materials.") There is no such thing as overnight success. You've hit the nail on the head when you say the most important thing is you have to LOVE it.( If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life.) It's what keeps you going when the going gets tough. I've made a life & a living doing what others said was an impossible dream. This is a great grounding video for anyone wanting to live their dream!

  • @ec9401
    @ec9401 3 года назад +55

    Loved this video! Thank you for pointing out that underselling flowers could hurt other local sellers. Interesting ❤️ I don’t sell flowers or plan on it but I still find this fascinating. Here’s to 2021!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      Cheers! Thanks!

    • @Alchemyforall
      @Alchemyforall 3 года назад +2

      Yes, me too loved the point made about others underselling the market price value. Everyone should charge the same, and give good value for the price point.

    • @RockinRavenVA
      @RockinRavenVA 3 года назад +2

      @@Alchemyforall This is a huge problem across all kinds of maker's markets (art, jewelry, etc). Undercutting sellers makes no sense from any standpoint. Everyone's time and effort is valuable; we all get the same number of hours in a day. Charge what the market can bear across the board or risk killing that market.

    • @angelenaj0Li3
      @angelenaj0Li3 2 года назад +1

      @@Alchemyforall It’s hard to find out said pricepoints though when nobody is willing to share that information with you. I’ve reached out to numerous local growers and I understand that they have their own business and don’t want to share all their ideas and may look at it as oh this person is going to try to undercut me but that’s really not the case. I can’t know what to charge if people don’t share that info. I know what people sell market type bouquets for in the area but if I wanted to sell bushels or per stem prices it’s hard to say what the correct price is. Im cross referencing multiple resources but it still could be wrong

    • @Alchemyforall
      @Alchemyforall 2 года назад +1

      @@RockinRavenVA Yes. Exactly!

  • @halpal12
    @halpal12 3 года назад +2

    Only being $2000 in the hole for the first year is a great success for any new business!! Congrats!!

  • @mi.homefarmsteadtherekucs5476
    @mi.homefarmsteadtherekucs5476 3 года назад +11

    Look how fast you got that up! Love the kind reality check. ❤️🌱🌻🌷🌸💐

  • @michelleguelfi3460
    @michelleguelfi3460 3 года назад +8

    Thank you!!!! You made me tear up!! Very heart felt, not usually the reaction when crunching numbers!! You rock!!!!!!

  • @karlaortloff4241
    @karlaortloff4241 3 года назад +7

    Thank you! This was just the reality check I needed. We need more realistic conversations like these in the world of social media where everything is sunshine, unicorns...and roses!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      I agree, Karla! I hope this was helpful!

  • @tamisauer2402
    @tamisauer2402 3 года назад +1

    You are such an inspiration! And darn cute while giving us the nitty gritty. Thank you for your joyful personality and all the information you share.

  • @marielenaacorda-shaner3534
    @marielenaacorda-shaner3534 3 года назад +1

    Great video and great insight, you are right many people out there think watch Instagram on flower farms that make it look like a get rich quick idea and it's not. A lot of money, time learning and hard work goes into making a successful farm. Love watching your candid videos.

  • @InTheGardenWithClaudia
    @InTheGardenWithClaudia 3 года назад +23

    I freaking love your honesty. This was super insightful and puts things into perspective. Thank you for being open about it and sharing your experience. 💕🤗

  • @micktheflowerchick4880
    @micktheflowerchick4880 3 года назад +8

    Thank you so much for sharing Nicole! This is such a great reality check for those who have not been farming/gardening for long. It really has to be something you do because you love it.

  • @jessicahobin
    @jessicahobin Год назад +1

    This was a super helpful video. Made me feel like working as a Nurse while also having a flower farm isn't a "crazy" thing to do - its how you get your business up and running.

  • @sabrinawing8094
    @sabrinawing8094 29 дней назад

    Thank you! for an uncomfortable but importantly informative video. You! are a treasure and I value your lovely self and the terrific videos you put out. I have been a professional, private gardener for 30 yrs and this year am starting my own veg and flower farm just outside of Burlington Vt. Watching your content has been very useful and entertaining. May your 2024 be the best season EVER!
    All the very best to you,
    Sabrina Wing,
    Your Gardening Angel

  • @rusticanrefined
    @rusticanrefined 3 года назад +13

    I loved this video! I feel sometimes (due to my age) the younger crowd jumps in and can get discouraged when the reality sets in. Thinking 5 steps ahead is key and knowing what you're in for is a huge help and benefit too. Great job!

  • @cecilleflowerfarm
    @cecilleflowerfarm 3 года назад +5

    All I want is flowers in my garden and maybe vegetable seedlings roadside selling.

  • @bitbuythecoin638
    @bitbuythecoin638 5 месяцев назад

    This is the first video I’ve seen from you. It is so refreshing to see an honest account of what it takes to have a flower business. Thank you for telling it like it is!

  • @Dee-nw4dr
    @Dee-nw4dr 3 года назад +2

    FINALLY! People think about money 24/7 - why is it such taboo - we should all try to be more open and honest. I have watched Serena and Ian's videos and they are so LOVELY! but I have caught myself several times yelling at my computer, "ONE OF YOU NEEDS A FULL TIME JOB!" I have also owned several business that would have never happened if my husband was not supporting me. Some years he made more, some years I made more, give and take for sure. I have enjoyed your videos so much! Keep pushing :)

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      Thank you! I’d be terrified without another source of income. When Veda was born I stayed home and we raised a family on a Very Small income. I know what it is like to count pennies to pay the electric bill. I don’t want to be there again and we have worked our butts off to be where we are now. I appreciate your input!

  • @FragileFlowerTarot
    @FragileFlowerTarot 3 года назад +4

    Thank you for going outside your comfort zone to share useful information to everyone.

  • @lovelyrainflowerfarm
    @lovelyrainflowerfarm 3 года назад +6

    You’re so weird and I love it 😆
    This was an amazing video. I really appreciate how thorough and transparent you were. Forewarned is forearmed.

  • @savvydirtfarmer
    @savvydirtfarmer 3 года назад +2

    Thank you, thank you, thank you for posting your financials! Let's face it; this is really what people want to know. They want to know if this works; if it's worth it; if it's a money pit, or a money maker. Few people are willing to share their numbers, and I really do understand that. Your example and others have inspired me to share my small nursery business with the world as well, including numbers. Reality is, well, reality! So... thanks!! Very helpful.

  • @jeffg166
    @jeffg166 3 года назад

    Watching your videos over the last few months I was tabulating costs in my head and figured you weren’t breaking even. It’s good that you are young enough, energetic enough and passionate enough to do this alone with all the other stuff you do. I am exhausted after watching one of your videos.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      Yea, I definitely didn't plan to break even for a few years. I'm taking advantage of the extra incomes while I have them! p.s. I'm exhausted too! LOL

  • @aprilturner9950
    @aprilturner9950 3 года назад +3

    Thank you! My husband overheard parts of this video. He is the $ support so my girl and I can do this full time. It truly is a purpose in life. A reason to get up in the morning and my husband and I know it’s worth it. Thank you again for being real. A hand up to those who follow.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      Best of luck to you April! Support is invaluable 💐

  • @ElderandOakFarm
    @ElderandOakFarm 3 года назад +4

    Thanks for this video! I think a lot of people need to know this- customers included. 👍 I think a lot of it has to do with the person selling the flowers as well. You are (seems to me anyways!) one of those people that are easy to talk to, you can easily spark up a convo with someone, etc. & it probably makes people more likely to buy from you.
    *NO it was NOT boring! Very helpful!

  • @betsymaltby6788
    @betsymaltby6788 3 года назад +1

    I think you really provided a valuable service to anyone considering starting any business venture. Have been enjoying all of your videos since I discovered you last spring and have learned a lot as well for my own backyard garden. I wish you tons of success in 2021...we're all rooting for you!! (pun not intended...LOL!)

  • @UnderAPileOfScrap
    @UnderAPileOfScrap 3 года назад +1

    I think you're the first person that I've seen who has made the financial side of small business more interesting to listen to and keep my attention! And Kudos for pointing out the underselling of product just for the sake of a selling over the next guy, no matter the obvious differences in quality. I don't have a flower farm because setting up a salad bar for the deer doesn't make ANY money, but I have had a home decor repurposing business and it got to be pretty saturated and cut throat for sales, because so many was just doing it "for fun" and didn't think it was fair for businesses to charge more than what they had in it financially. Thank you for creating such an enlightening video!!

  • @czwaan7041
    @czwaan7041 3 года назад +7

    A very honest and clear story, greetings from Holland the Tulips and Lily land!
    You are doing very well, keep it up!!!

  • @caseyhightower2419
    @caseyhightower2419 2 года назад +5

    I'm a full-time Florist and have recently started clearing off our 10 acres to start growing. It's such a slow process, especially working at my shop with all the overhead. I have paid myself $300 in almost two years. I completely understand the big gulp feeling when investing in something you're not sure will sell or die in a bucket. I really enjoy your realistic videos and your approach. Start small, be patient, stay passionate, and end big. Keep growing!

  • @ShortAcres
    @ShortAcres Год назад +2

    One of the best videos ever. It also is a reminder to folks the sacrifice that local farmers are making for their passion. Accounting for the ‘employee’ cost of oneself on top of the things bought is something people always seem to negate and needs to be accounted for. Example, if you did your primary paid job the hours your spent with flower farming how much more your personal income would be!

  • @jenniahcaldwell986
    @jenniahcaldwell986 3 года назад +2

    I know you were nervous making this video - talking about money is tough sometimes, but I think videos like this are so important. Sometimes when we are just looking at videos of pretty flowers, it is easy to forget that 1) this is a business and 2) this is so much hard work. The details and the nitty gritty is important for future farmers to know about and sharing your experiences can help them succeed. So bravo and great video! Also - THANK YOU for introducing us to Cool Flowers - I got it for Christmas and it is going to change how I plant a lot of my annuals in the fall.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      You're welcome! I'm glad you are enjoying the book! Great stuff

  • @bradtisch7803
    @bradtisch7803 3 года назад +4

    As someone who was brought up to not talk about money, I understand your reluctance to make this video, but I appreciate your honestly and candor. You did a great job, and this is an important video. For a lot of people, including me, owning a flower farm is the ultimate fantasy. I often think of leaving my office job to start a farm of my own. Thank you for doing the math and breaking down the numbers to show the reality of being a flower farmer. I guess I’ll have to stay at my job for a while longer, while I continue to save up, read up, and keep dreaming.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      It’s very hard to wait. It’s the hardest for me. Realizing goals takes patience but I lack that LOL. I imagine it will be even sweeter when it happens because of the time it took. We will see! I also appreciate it more since it hasn’t happened overnight 💐

    • @funrector8131
      @funrector8131 Год назад

      Now that it has been a couple years, have you been able to turn a profit yet? I know you said you wouldn't talk dollars again, so are you willing to share what the approximate % over your investment you have been able to achieve 2nd or even 3rd years? Were you able to make your goal of doubling your sales that next year that you mentioned at the end? My wife and Ijust bought 20 acres and are hoping to grow flowers on as much of that as we can on the side while we continue to work other jobs.

  • @mirandabeaudry7936
    @mirandabeaudry7936 3 года назад +14

    Okay I did not expect you to get THAT close to black on your FIRST year! What the heckin heck! You might not wanna hear it but this makes me wanna do it even more!!!!!! Lololol im not quitting any jobs though lol, slow and steady ramp up for me.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      Haha! 💐💰🤷‍♀️

    • @veronikasladekova5226
      @veronikasladekova5226 3 года назад +2

      It seems close just because she dont count the land and the tractor. Just the bulbs, seeds and plants. And the cost of just living, feeding the family whole year is not counted either. It it just long way run, but with all the joy it brings I think it still worth it.

    • @mirandabeaudry7936
      @mirandabeaudry7936 3 года назад

      @@veronikasladekova5226 agreed!

  • @laceybell8287
    @laceybell8287 3 года назад +1

    I'm glad you have put in the thought of how much you need to grow and sell to reach your profit goals. I don't think many people starting flower farming are thinking that through. Getting started growing is easy. Figuring out how to scale the business is harder.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      I appreciate that! I don't think they do either. Rose colored glasses can be a serious issue!

  • @MsBridgesSocial
    @MsBridgesSocial 3 года назад +1

    Very good information. I am interested in flower farming myself and I have an architectural design service along with a part time job. At 50 years of age, the time and effort is an important thing for me to know. Thanks alot! (And don't feel awkward about sharing the financial side of things. )

  • @hungsigsgaardnguyen7498
    @hungsigsgaardnguyen7498 3 года назад +7

    I just want to say. I learned so much from you. With all knowledges and the way you do with passion. Same same with me. I grow a small organic garden in Denmark.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      Thank you! 💐

    • @ninirossau2304
      @ninirossau2304 3 года назад

      Where in Denmark are you growing, I am close to aarhus and I really missed the garden societys plant markets. A good place to sell or buy plants both flowers and vegetables.

    • @hungsigsgaardnguyen7498
      @hungsigsgaardnguyen7498 3 года назад

      @@ninirossau2304 dav. I am in Randers. I am a new gardener. We can get in touch in my page “Hungs blomster hus”. Thanks. I am glad to talk to you

  • @jonmarctruesdale1832
    @jonmarctruesdale1832 3 года назад +3

    Thank you so much! I needed this, this is my first year!

  • @suebyrom2757
    @suebyrom2757 2 года назад +1

    I’ve just seen this and I know it’s now a year old but I think you are amazing, your energy is just incredible. I think this video should be recommended viewing for anyone contemplating doing farmer’s flowers.

  • @sandraolvera8295
    @sandraolvera8295 3 года назад +1

    I understand being worried that the video is boring or lengthy but at least for myself I can say I ABSOLUTELY appreciated this video. As a small scale market gardener trying to climb my way up in the world I thought this was a really insightful video into the investment vs. returns game. I really especially appreciate that you KEPT on mentioning that you do have a full time job, you DO have other sources of income. I think that's a really hard concept for a lot of people to understand as far as the time and love it takes to make a business like this as opposed to having an unlimited amount of income to make all of your farm streamlined and efficient. Thank you!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      It's so hard to succeed in small business but we have to keep plugging away!

  • @mirandabeaudry7936
    @mirandabeaudry7936 3 года назад +10

    Got my bag of chocolate chips, let’s hear the tea

  • @estherlista
    @estherlista 3 года назад +24

    Also you haven't include your labor cost on top of $9,000

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +13

      Nope. That would be hundreds of hours of labor.

  • @camilleseptsault5681
    @camilleseptsault5681 3 года назад +2

    Thanks for that video, I watch from France. I am trying to believe in the dream of growing at least my own flower supply, as a florist. It makes so little sense to me now to use flowers that travelled the world and that are sold for so cheap, all standardized. Raises so many ethical issues in my mind and in the mind of customers as well. Thanks for helping the people here to get there by sharing your experience, very thankful. It really helps putting the project in perspective and visualising it. You are doing more than you know !!

  • @vickieandrews5709
    @vickieandrews5709 3 года назад +1

    Great video! You really have not included all expenses. Especially not your and husband's income for labor. Price of tools, price of tractor, cost of fertilizer, cost of tissue paper, ribbons, vases. Yes it takes a lot of initial income. I highly recommend a tax professional. I watch Garden Answer on You tube she has just started a flower farm in 2020. I know they have spent mega money on this new adventure into her passion. They did drip tape for their watering. It was the least expensive option but worked extremely well. Thank you for such a nice well thought out video.

  • @sarahchristine546
    @sarahchristine546 3 года назад +7

    THANK YOU for your transparency. I also have a passion for gardening and it is an investment of time, love and a lot of money. But your channel is an inspiration. Keep the content coming. Thank you for keeping it real❤️

  • @AndreaAubertin
    @AndreaAubertin 3 года назад +7

    Yes that was one of the best reality checks I've seen about flower farming. Great job!

  • @maryhow9898
    @maryhow9898 2 года назад +1

    This is why we love your videos. You are experiencing what we cannot, and the fact that you can get revenue from that, along with everything else, is FANTASTIC!

  • @allisonhartley6712
    @allisonhartley6712 2 года назад

    Gladiolus will multiply like crazy. You can’t kill them. I dug mine out of my garden to enlarge it, laid down cardboard, then brown paper, then landscape fabric and put garden beds down. Then I put landscape fabric in the beds. And those gladiolus I missed have come up through all of that and bloomed.

  • @terrya.
    @terrya. 3 года назад +19

    That was really helpful! Thanks for putting yourself out there and sharing that information!!

  • @cassandraberger9146
    @cassandraberger9146 3 года назад +3

    Absolutely love your honesty & humor! I thoroughly enjoy & learn from you❣️

  • @marymadison2026
    @marymadison2026 Год назад

    Found this by accident and was very appreciative of your candor and wisdom!

  • @45jessiemad
    @45jessiemad 3 года назад

    Completely agree!! My small flower farm is having to constantly pivot. This has become a passion of mine. I'm starting college in the fall and working full time. I started the RUclips channel to help support my flower farm. To make things harder in Louisiana only a licensed florist can sell arranged flowers meaning I can only sell flowers as bunches of the same flowers. 😔
    It'll all work out. Plan on donating a lot of bouquets to the community and just doing arrangements for friends and family. Maybe do a farmers market. But man did I LOVE having flowers Last year.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      Wow that's a strange law! I'm definitely glad I don't have that here in New York. Best of luck!

  • @Michellemybelle1996
    @Michellemybelle1996 3 года назад +8

    This was very interesting and offers a lot of insight for others thinking of starting a small business. You did amazing for your first ‘official’ year! You put in a Ton of physical labor too. Thank you for sharing such personal information for the benefit of others- you have such a generous spirit. Excited to watch and see what 2021 has in store for you!!

  • @brookepaulsen777
    @brookepaulsen777 3 года назад +4

    I love all of your videos but this one is exceptionally helpful and a real look at the process. Thank you for being authentic and sharing!

  • @cherylcook6284
    @cherylcook6284 2 года назад

    I cannot thank you enough for this wonderful and realistic discussion on the "flower business". I will keep my flowers as a passion and Maybe make a few coins profit on the side.

  • @professor.persuade
    @professor.persuade 2 года назад +2

    I love that you shared this information. I love when people are real. We can't train up the next generation in secrets and too many people want to go a way from what they are raised in. Being honest and open like this helps others seek out and determine their careers and lifestyles.

  • @apexacres8968
    @apexacres8968 3 года назад +4

    This is a great video! I have run my own business for 17 years in another industry and it was definitely not a get rich quick endeavor. Owning your own business is a huge risk but it will, over time, become a great reward.

  • @zachasher1599
    @zachasher1599 3 года назад +4

    I came across your vidoe on my feed and im happy I did. I am a soon to be college graduate studying horticulture. My hopes and dreams for the last couple years have been to eventually build a cutflower/floral/vegetable farm. One of my absolute favorite things to do is garden. I would be starting from basically nothing seeing I have no land or equipment, except i do have a few hundred dollars in seeds. I know they only way for me to do this is have a regular fulltime job as well as start out small with the flower business. If there was one bit of advice you could give to someone like me what would that be?

  • @alliisgator
    @alliisgator Год назад +1

    Thank you so much for sharing!!!! This is exactly what I needed, it’s so kind of you to do something that makes you uncomfortable to help others!!

  • @evedallas8667
    @evedallas8667 3 года назад

    You make me smile and make me excited to TRY and very small hobby of growing flowers I'm not looking to sell anything the first year because I know It's a trial and error time. I want to invest in LEARNING to grow flowers since I've never done it before. I have no intentions of quitting my full time job that is 48 hours + a week. That will never happen until I retire. I've own 2 businesses and I'm not planning on making this a business. I'm going to make it a " PASSSION" that help me decompress on the weekends and before going to work. I need the flowers mentally a lot more than the stress of selling them and trying to make a business. I'm doing this in large flower pots and raised beds that I bought. I have seeds and a few tulip and Daffodils bulbs but I'm not investing in a huge assortment of bulbs. I have less than 100 of them

  • @lynlull8947
    @lynlull8947 3 года назад +5

    It was not boring, I found it very informative. I would like to have an herb CSA farm someday, so I find your videos very helpful. Your flowers are beautiful

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      Oooooo an Herb CSA. That sounds delightful! Best of luck

  • @blessedshoe
    @blessedshoe 3 года назад +3

    Love your energy and passion. You are so adorable! If I lived close to you I would happily volunteer many hours at your farm, in exchange for a bouquet once a week or two. 😃

  • @courtneyrosiak-quinto9468
    @courtneyrosiak-quinto9468 3 года назад +1

    Beautiful thank you! It's so easy to jump off the cliff with passion, but your honesty, and vulnerability, will hopefully save many! I see so many folks getting into farming, spending more than they could possibly make in a season, and then being disappointed, and giving up. No matter what business one is starting, it's critical to understand investment vs. break even vs. profit. Being an entrepreneur/business owner is always a slow game. Thank you for reminding folks to invest intelligently, and playing for the long run!!!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      I agree! Thank you so much Courtney. It's not easy to lay it out there, but I think someone needed to hear it!

  • @ruhlfamilyfarm8047
    @ruhlfamilyfarm8047 2 года назад +2

    Thank you, this was fantastic! You brought up very good points for anyone starting a small farm - don't quit your day job, don't undersell your product, be passionate and be patient. You are wonderfully animated and expressive and this shines through in the video! So many videos give great advice about producing on a small scale, but the marketing and actual profit over time determine if the farm will survive. Folks need to realize that no farming venture is a get rich quick deal or an immediate replacement for a full time income elsewhere before their dreams are shattered by the reality of the marketplace. Best of luck for continued success - with your drive and personality you will prosper!!

  • @sharonjennings1282
    @sharonjennings1282 3 года назад +5

    What a great video. I was also taught to keep my income private. Thsnks for going out on a limb to prevent people from failing because they jumped in too quickly. I am glad you touched on not underselling also. I see people selling bouquets for 10, 15, 20 dollars on youtube videos and I dont know where to start mine! I will be at my local farmers market this year Any suggestions on a wise starting price? Thanks for another helpful video!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад +1

      I don't sell bouquets for less than $15. They are typically $20 unless they request more!

    • @care7663
      @care7663 3 года назад +1

      I think its important to consider your customers/ cities average income as well. If the average income of people in your city is $20,000 they're not going to be likely to buy $20 bouquets every week, but if its an average of $60,000 a year, then you will likely have customers that may be able to afford to buy them every week. But even if the average income is low, like Nicole said, still don't cut yourself too short, because even if you're not doing this as a living to feed your family, the person beside you might be! And when people see cheap flowers, they're probably just going to assume thats what the price should be, & everyone else is just overcharging.

  • @hughcard3799
    @hughcard3799 3 года назад +6

    Please, please also explain how much real physical labor is involved. The financial part is rough but so is the labor part. It is tough but can be the ending of so much.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      Hundreds and hundreds of hours of manual labor. Very true!

  • @judithv.415
    @judithv.415 2 года назад

    Thank you for sharing!!!💕

  • @ilenehorowitz3060
    @ilenehorowitz3060 3 года назад

    Fascinating. I have a whole new respect for the industry. Best of luck

  • @anlicoertzen5021
    @anlicoertzen5021 3 года назад +6

    As a finance professional it would be interesting to see the split of the $9000 between investment(assuming future benefit beyond 2020) and annual expense(no future benefit). 🌸

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      That would be good to know!

    • @kathleenmurphy6009
      @kathleenmurphy6009 Год назад

      And depreciation of set up costs like tractor & irrigation, fencing, etc?

  • @stephanied68
    @stephanied68 3 года назад +5

    You mentioned starting hydrangea's! Looking forward to see where you go with that. I don't see a lot of varieties in the colder climates.

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      Oh yes. It’s happening!

    • @elainewyse
      @elainewyse 3 года назад

      May I ask what you do for your free lance job ?

  • @lindaparra6002
    @lindaparra6002 2 года назад

    FAR FROM BORING!!! This video held me captive! May God bless You for your generous and transparent video. Blessings in Abundance!

  • @HoneyAppleFarm
    @HoneyAppleFarm 3 года назад

    This was delightful! Have just discovered your channel and I love your energy. So few people talk about finances, but it's important and exactly what I needed to hear. :)

  • @iloveprosperity6562
    @iloveprosperity6562 3 года назад +3

    Bitcoin is the future, Investing in it now will be the wisest thing to do especially with the current rise.

  • @jnblawnandlandscapellc
    @jnblawnandlandscapellc Год назад

    Great video!! I love your personality, just subscribed!

  • @josiesmith1506
    @josiesmith1506 2 года назад

    I think these real talk videos are so valuable. So even if you never share like this again. I’m glad you did!

  • @LandOfJuncoville
    @LandOfJuncoville 2 года назад

    Thank you for your transparency. 🙏🏼

  • @megana1221
    @megana1221 2 года назад

    Great video! Thank you for your honesty!

  • @heidischumacher617
    @heidischumacher617 3 года назад

    It's really kind of you to be transparent about this topic.

  • @patriciahogg5763
    @patriciahogg5763 Год назад

    Thanks!! Great insights! 🌻🌻🌻

  • @danielabodemer168
    @danielabodemer168 Год назад

    Most sensible video about the cost of starting a flower farm. Thank you!

  • @ashalatasoans9222
    @ashalatasoans9222 2 года назад

    Thank you for being transparent !

  • @joansiebens5206
    @joansiebens5206 2 года назад

    You are Awesome! You go Girl!

  • @toddjohnson5058
    @toddjohnson5058 3 года назад

    Thank you SO much for taking the time to share all of this info. It was massively helpful & addressed alot of my questions & concerns as I head into flower farming. Also the most entertaining. Thanks!

  • @mariabeetison2367
    @mariabeetison2367 3 года назад

    Thank you for your honesty!!

  • @angelajohnston119
    @angelajohnston119 3 года назад

    Congratulations on 2020!!! Great video. Thank you for sharing not only this information but all of your videos! You are doing great!

  • @CrimsonWolf1914
    @CrimsonWolf1914 2 года назад +1

    I don't think this is boring. This is inspirational. A wake up call that I needed. It made me even more excited to get started and experience the joy of sharing a gift to the public.

  • @karenl5378
    @karenl5378 2 года назад

    Thanks for sharing your experience! 💚

  • @Journal2Awakening
    @Journal2Awakening 3 года назад +2

    Bravo! I have taught business planning to young kids, high school kids, college kids and to adults with Harvard Degrees and you just did a great job on summing it up in 21 minutes! It’s unfortunate how many of us just do not think of all these details and fail. However, failure is a great teacher too so, never give up... thank you for sharing this great video!!

    • @FlowerHillFarm
      @FlowerHillFarm  3 года назад

      Thank you! It was difficult to shrink it down- I did leave a lot out but I felt compelled to warn people that even when you dive in 100% there are so many expenses and factors to consider- especially in farming, where one storm can destroy your season.

  • @gardengirl5487
    @gardengirl5487 2 года назад

    You freekin rock! Just keep it coming🌻🌸🌼🌺

  • @melinapatterson9533
    @melinapatterson9533 2 года назад

    Love love this video!! I love gardening, but is amazing to hear from someone that took a hobby to a passion! And how much hard work it’ll take to make it a success! Good luck! Keep going!

  • @brendahemby3848
    @brendahemby3848 3 года назад

    Good for you Nicole! This was a very informative video and I'm sure it was uncomfortable but you did a great job with it. And I hope you have a fantastic season.

  • @chloethomas4425
    @chloethomas4425 3 года назад

    Honestly the bouquet bar is the money maker and a genius idea!