Crisis not needed for collaboration to bloom

One of the most beautiful things happening right now, amidst the horrific aftermath of Hurricane Helene, is the overwhelming generosity and teamwork pouring from our communities.

Businesses and neighborhoods everywhere seem to be organizing donation drives for those most impacted by the storm. While the reason behind all of this is heartbreaking, it’s equally heartwarming to see people come together, giving whatever they can — from bottled water to blankets. This isn’t a top-down relief effort; it’s grassroots support from everyday people stepping up.

For many, these efforts have restored faith in humanity, especially in a time of political divisiveness. Our friends in the Upstate and mountains throughout the Southeast will need our help for years to come. I’ve heard from many here during Hugo when those same communities rushed to our aid, so it’s appropriate that now is our time to repay that kindness.

But collaboration shouldn’t just bloom in times of crisis. It can — and should — happen in our everyday lives, too, whether it’s business to business or community to community. Since entering the events industry in 2010, I’ve witnessed the incredible things that happen when businesses move away from competition and lean into collaboration. There’s a saying, “A rising tide lifts all ships,” and Charleston’s floral community is a perfect example of how businesses can succeed together by supporting one another.

Just take a look at our Roadside Blooms wedding Instagram account and you’ll notice that at least half of the praise comes from other florists. We cheer each other on. Not only do we genuinely appreciate each other’s work, but by we also elevate the entire industry by lifting each other up. This sense of camaraderie makes the Charleston floral scene more appealing to anyone considering holding their events here.

In January 2016, Beth LeonGuerrero, of Charleston Wedding Studio, started a local Facebook group for those in the floral industry. The idea was simple: provide a place to post if someone needed help, had extra flowers or wanted to share inventory. What began as a small idea has blossomed into a thriving collaborative community.

“I started the group because I truly believe that if we are all successful, it benefits us as a whole,” LeonGuerrero said. “We are so fortunate that Charleston is a popular wedding destination, but that could change if couples have bad experiences. Working together to ensure every wedding is a success cultivates an attractive environment for couples considering whether or not to get married in Charleston.”

Here’s a glimpse of the kinds of things we share — and maybe some will inspire collaboration in your own industry:

Freelance help. I’ve freelanced for others, and they’ve freelanced for me — even those with competing businesses. We want each other to look good.
Inventory needs. If someone runs short on vases or needs a specific structure like an arbor, we borrow or rent from one another.
Extra product. Sometimes all you need is a few stems to complete a masterpiece. Years ago, I was able to provide a fellow florist with just three peonies to finish her bridal bouquet. Small acts make a big difference.
Tips and advice. New florists often ask for tips on mechanics or setups. Within minutes, someone usually contributes their know-how.
Flower sources. We openly share the best flower sources, whether it’s a local farmer or a wholesaler.
Referrals. When one of us is booked, we refer clients to others in the group.

Earlier this year, a beloved floral designer in our community suddenly passed away, leaving behind a husband and child. The floral community rallied to finish her contracted weddings, raise money for her family and sell her inventory.

Instead of focusing on survival of the fittest, we thrive by lifting each other up. Consider finding one or two peers in your own industry that you trust to refer business when you’re too busy. They’ll likely return the favor. This approach may feel unconventional in some fields, but it works for us. As we often joke in our floral community: If the flower people can’t figure out how to support each other, the rest of the world is in trouble.

Toni Reale is the owner of Roadside Blooms, a flower, crystal and plant shop at 4491 Durant Ave., North Charleston. Online at roadsideblooms.com.