Why Every Small Business Should Have a Little Helper

Six months ago I opened my own flower shop here in Clearwater, FL.  Flowers have always had a huge part of my life, but what has been important to me now is also passing that on to my daughter.  She has been wonderful, helping a little bit around the shop on busy days like Mother's Day and for a few hours here and there after school.

I love getting to spend the extra time with her, though in addition to that, it enables me to pass on the art that I have learned, and the knowledge and experience of working in a business that all young adults should encounter and learn first-hand while growing up.  While I want her to learn and study the field she wants to become a professional in, it is good to learn lots of trades, and there are the basics to running a small business that are pretty much the same shop to shop.

There is something important about going to school or otherwise studying for a trade or a craft.  But there is a lot that goes into maintaining inventory, dealing with customers and using creativity in a professional way, just to mention some things, and the best way to really get an understanding of all of that is to be there and do it hands-on.

I think this is especially important for girls who are growing up in a world that is just now starting to crack glass ceilings and challenge wage inequality and beginning to really disregard gender role designated career paths.  There are so many opportunities out there for young women, and being educated and experienced puts them a step ahead and shows them that they have options.  Being able to give that to my daughter is extremely important. 

But it is also important for all young people who will be growing up and eventually running the small businesses and corporations of the world.  As has been said, it is important to teach your children well, but it is important to teach all children well.  

So while I love having my daughter with me in my shop helping out, and more importantly, learning, I wanted to take this week's blog to reflect on that.

Do you have a Little Helper?  Or are you where you are today because you were able to help out and learn when you were younger?  Let me know in the comments below!  I'm interested in hearing your story.

<3

------------------

Bridget is the proud Owner of Flower Designs by Bridget, bringing European Certification and 20 years experience to Pinellas County, Florida, where she lives with her husband (Air Force, Ret.) and two children.  When she is not in her shop, you will find her enjoying a cup of Roiboos tea with her family and several cats and dogs (including one named Daisy).  While the holiday greens and decorations of December are her favorite, she looks forward to bringing you sunshine and smiles through flowers all year round!