Today we’d like to introduce you to Zimri Gutierrez
Hi Zimri, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2017 my ex partner and I started dating, he was a florist and I was a sales associate and I also did marketing. One day I saw him make a funeral arrangement and my hustle mind spoke to me and I knew I can sell his work. I created social media accounts for us, and I began to market his work. I was on many platforms such as instagram, Facebook, Offer Up and even Craigslist. From each and every one we began to receive messages and build our clientele. After a year of working from home and having full time jobs and parents, we decided to invest and open up a brick and mortar. In 2018 we found a location in the lovely town of Whittier, CA. As the city began to get to know us, our business began to grow. In 2021, we leased another building to expand our business. I joined the Chamber of Commerce in Whittier and also began to volunteer my time. In 2023, the business took a turn, my partner and I went our separate ways, and I stood with the business and ran it for a whole year alone. Now as a woman and Latina owned business, I closed the shop and decided to become a mobile florist. My business runs sticky online and over the phone. I created the flexibility and freedom to run my business and still be a mother and a part time student. As my business continue to grow, I do plan to reopen a new location over time. I have been parting with a local coffee shop to host flower classes. I look forward to what God has for me and my business. I have many new ideas and projects coming soon! ✨💐🙏🏽
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In 2020, it became a challenge for our business. We had to shut down for a few months. Inventory was hard to receive. Once we were able to reopen, we noticed a change in pricing. Things began to sky rocket. So our pricing had to change as well.
After my partner and I split in 2023, it was a challenge as well being able to run a business alone and still be a mother. I’m proud I tried my best in maintaining it grounded for a year alone. But I knew it waS my time to move forward.
We’ve been impressed with AZ Whittier Florist, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
AZ Whittier Florist open in 2018 in the lovely city of Whittier. It began to grow as the neighborhood began to see our selection of fresh and creative floral arrangements. We specialize in everyday flowers, wedding and event florals, Quince and Baptisms florals, Funerals and more! What makes me proud of my work, is the feedback I received from my client. The joy and happiness that my creative brings into their lives. I think what sets me apart from other is my pricing, that I’m budget friendly and I offer free consultations and free mock up to my clients that book an appointment. I want the reader to know that they can trust me to bring their vision to life when it comes to flowers. I see floristry as an art. And I love to bring into reality. I am currently still booking for 2024 and booking for 2025. Book a free consultation today! 🙂
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
In the next 5- 10 years, I do see my business reestablished in Whittier. I do see my business having different locations all down the Blvd, from Boyle heights to Brea. I see my business hiring thriving people willing to try floristry and having the heart and passion to make people smile with our work. I do see myself working out of state, becoming a florist willing to travel where ever my clients would hire me to go. I do see myself giving back to the community, donating to different charities and supporting local rehab center and shelters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.azwhittierflorist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azwhittierflorist
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AZWhittierflorist
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/whittierflorist
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/az-whittier-florist-whittier
- Other: https://www.TikTok.com/@azwhittierflorist
