Today we’d like to introduce you to Lesley Barreda.
Hi Lesley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I thought my life was all mapped out with a stable government job and the security of a pension. However, everything changed when I experienced carpal tunnel surgery, resulting in chronic pain and a year-long disability. Dealing with depression and learning to cope with pain was new to me, and I didn’t know if I could get through it. I always considered myself mentally strong, but this was the first time I questioned myself. I was unable to physically take care of myself-the struggle was real! Flowers became a comforting and joyful presence during that challenging time. My mom would take me to the floral market, and we’d spend time creating arrangements and filling our home with them. Flowers brought me joy, and my family offered support, but it was my faith in God that filled me with hope. After months of occupational therapy and several nerve block injections, I chose to leave my government job to pursue entrepreneurship. Now, I’m a floral designer, creating arrangements for events and loving every moment of this new journey filled with creativity and fulfillment.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Living with chronic pain is just part of my life, something I’ve learned to accept and live with. Those who experience pain know that some days are better than others, and getting caught up in fear and worry only makes it worse. My faith and family have been crucial to helping me through any challenge I’ve had to face. To help my mind and body, any time I have a negative thought, I replace it with a positive one, take deep breaths, and give myself the space to rest.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a Mexican American floral designer. My design style is best described as organic and free-flowing, drawing inspiration from nature. Fresh and high-quality flowers are my favorite choice for arrangements. Sustainability is important to me, so I steer clear from floral foam altogether—I’m committed to reducing my environmental impact. Outside of work, I’m a wife and dog mom to two adorable pups: Harley, a Pitbull Mastiff, and Poppy, a German Shepherd Rottweiler mix.
How do you define success?
Success, to me, means having faith, looking after your mind and body, maintaining family relationships, and having the freedom to follow your passions. I’ve realized that my job isn’t everything; it’s important to pursue projects that truly matter to me. My dad has always told me and my siblings, “Do what’s best for you and your family,” and I really believe in that. Whether you’re choosing to remain in a stable job or diving into something new, as long as you’re following your dreams and helping you and your family reach your goals. That’s what counts.
Contact Info:
- Website: candidpoppy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candidpoppy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candidpoppy
Image Credits
Guadalupe Leon
Danielle Leilani
