Power of the Pivot with Rachel Kelly, Make Lemonade

Petals of Power: How Rachel Kelly Navigated the Art of Pivoting into Event Floristry 

This week, we sit down with Rachel Kelly to explore the concept of pivoting in life and business. From her unique approach to floral design to her adventurous spirit on the road, Rachel demonstrates the power of embracing new paths and opportunities. Rachel’s journey from running the Make Lemonade CoWorking Studio to becoming an event florist is a testament to resilience, creativity, and optimism. Her story includes taking stock of what talents and assets she already had including her established professional brand and transforming her pandemic problems into a new career path after attending Toronto Flower School. Rachel’s dedication to her craft, from hauling greenery for celebrations to scaling her glass ceiling is truly inspiring. We break down her power moves and how she overcame self-doubt to become a kick-ass florist who is leading the way with her advice to help others become change makers of their own professional lives. 

Understand the Value of Resilience and Adaptability

• Learn how Rachel navigated the challenges of closing her coworking office and pivoting to a new career.
• Gain insights into the importance of staying optimistic and flexible in the face of adversity.

Explore Creative Career Transitions

• Discover how Rachel transitioned from managing a coworking studio to becoming a successful event florist.
• Understand the steps and mindset required to make a significant career change.

Harnessing the Power of Passion

• Learn how identifying and following one's passion can lead to fulfilling career opportunities.
• Hear about Rachel’s journey from curiosity to a committed career in floral design.

Developing Practical Skills and Mastery

• Gain insights into the practical skills Rachel acquired at Toronto Flower School and their application in her new career.
• Understand the role of continuous learning and skill development in professional growth.

Effective Use of Digital Marketing

• Learn about Rachel’s approach to mastering email marketing and its impact on her business.
• Explore the significance of digital marketing strategies in growing a small business.

Creativity in Business

• Discover how Rachel integrates her fine arts background into her floral designs.
• Understand the importance of creativity in differentiating oneself in a competitive market.

Inspiration and Motivation

• Be inspired by Rachel’s dedication and passion for her craft.
• Gain motivation to pursue your own dreams and consider new possibilities in your career path.

About our Changemaker Expert:

Rachel Kelly is a motorcycle ridin’, community-buildin’, florist in Toronto.

Like a lot of small business owners, her journey isn’t linear, but what makes her stand out is her eternal optimism and passion for colour. From the opening (and closing) of her coworking office, crafting email magic, to whipping up unique floral creations, good design is at the heart of everything she does.

She had an epiphany in the midst of the pandemic: her dreams were bigger than the work she was doing on her laptop, so she went after ‘em.

With a degree in fine arts, a sharp set of snips, and an eye for design, she jumped at the opportunity to go to Toronto Flower School to scratch an itch. The itch became a full-on career switch and she’s so glad she made it.

From hauling tonnes of greens for milestone celebrations, and scaling 15ft ladders to craft hanging installs for brand launches, she loves every moment of making flower magic.

Livestreams are then carefully crafted into podcast episodes for our Empower Hour for Changemakers Podcast