Talicia McCall abandoned her previous career path and launched her floral business in pursuit of happiness.
The Society of American Florists’ membership includes all segments of the industry — and that community is the heart of SAF. This bi-weekly feature spotlights SAF members sharing inspirational stories, professional insights, and the opportunity to form new industry connections.
Talicia McCall, owner of the floral design company AMBIANCE by Lovie, got started in the industry after making a promise to herself to stay true to what made her happy. What started as a project to create floral arrangements for her home office in memory of her late aunt, who had been an avid flower gardener, culminated in establishing a thriving floral business.
“Within six months of making the decision to make a complete pivot into the floral industry, opportunities arrived quickly,” McCall says. “My favorite is becoming the house florist for A Curated Bookstore, which is woman owned. The owners are friends of mine whom I met through pop-up events where we connected and decided to become business partners.”
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Self-discovery has helped McCall through her personal and professional journeys. Prior to becoming a business owner and florist, she had earned a master’s degree in education, only to realize she didn’t enjoy what she had thought was her dream job.
“Any deficits you have will show as you navigate life, and if you’re not accustomed to knowing who you are and what works for you, you will find yourself walking someone else’s path and not your own, which leads to mental health issues, burnout, feeling stuck in life,” she says.
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“I think everyone in the industry could benefit from knowing the power of the pause,” McCall says.
It’s important to take time to be still, relax, and listen to your intuition, which is the key to living a full abundant life on your own terms, she says.
Talicia McCall spoke at SAF’s Next Gen LIVE! event about her journey into the floral industry.
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It’s important to show up for yourself, McCall says.
“Ask for what you desire and make it a habit to practice and study all aspects of flowers,” she says. “Also invest in training and educational opportunities. When you show up for yourself, the opportunities will find you.”
Why SAF?
McCall is a newer SAF member and is enjoying the educational resources and events.
“ help you grow and stay aware of what’s happening in the industry,” she says.
McCall also was a speaker at SAF’s Next Gen LIVE! event, June 11-13, in Miami, where she gave an inspirational presentation about her journey to the industry.
“The experience was amazing and I loved every moment of it,” she says. “I would say the genuine connections and conversations I encountered were the most rewarding for me.”McCall was recently featured on SAF’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Do you know a member who should have a chance in the spotlight? Email Stephanie Brady, project manager for SAF.
Stephanie Brady is the project manager for the Society of American Florists.