Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Tuan.
Hi Emily, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have a background in classical flute and have always thrived in creative spaces. When my husband and I got engaged, we made the tough decision to leave the music industry and look for more stable careers. I spent eight years working for the County of Los Angeles, and while the benefits were amazing for my family, I often caught myself daydreaming about something more—something that would let me be creative again and have the flexibility to design my own schedule.
Before I finally decided to resign, I felt stuck, drained, and burnt out. I wanted to make sure I could replace my income first because financial independence has always mattered to me. So, after putting my toddler to bed, I’d stay up past midnight working on my small business ideas—learning marketing, studying floral design tutorials, and researching baby equipment rentals.
Today, I’m proud to say I run three small businesses:
SoCal Flower Studio – where I design and handcraft custom silk flower arrangements
Tots and Travels – renting out strollers and baby gear for Disneyland families
Flute Teacher – teaching private lessons and coaching flute classes at a local public school
I’m so grateful to be almost fully booked for flower arrangements through the end of the year. SoCal Flower Studio has become my main source of income, and Tots and Travels brings in a nice bit of extra money (and yes, that means more boba!). Most of all, I’m thankful that teaching flute lets me stay connected to my first love—music—and gives me the chance to inspire young musicians the way my teachers once inspired me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Yes and no.
I’ve started small businesses in the past that technically “worked” and brought in good income, but they demanded too much of my time—especially time away from my family. Eventually, I had to get very honest with myself and figure out what kind of business model would let me work fewer hours, focus during the week while my daughter was in school, and limit the time I spent on deliveries and setups over the weekend.
My husband and I also found a rhythm that worked for us. When our daughter got out of school or on weekends, we’d take turns focusing on our side businesses. I hesitate to call them “shifts,” but that’s essentially what we did—rotating so that one of us could enjoy one-on-one time with her while the other had dedicated work time.
I also recognize that this balance is possible because we’re a family of three (along with one German Shepherd and two cats, if I may add). We had always hoped for two children, but after experiencing multiple miscarriages, we decided to imagine what life could look like with just one. Our daughter is our rainbow baby, and after the second loss, I wasn’t sure I could go through that again. So, my husband and I chose to focus on gratitude—for her, for our time together, and for the life we’ve built.
Right now, I’m in a place where I feel genuinely content. I get to live and work as my authentic self, with the flexibility to nurture both my creativity and my family life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the owner and silk floral designer behind SoCal Flower Studio, where I specialize in creating custom, high-quality silk flower arrangements for weddings and special events. I love the challenge of transforming a client’s vision into something timeless—arrangements that capture the beauty of fresh blooms but last far beyond the occasion.
What truly sets SoCal Flower Studio apart is my collaborative approach. From the first consultation to the final design, I keep clients involved every step of the way. I share progress photos, invite feedback, and make adjustments as needed to ensure each piece reflects their unique style. This open, creative process builds trust and turns every project into a genuine partnership. The floral industry is always evolving, and I find joy in keeping up with new trends, colors, and techniques. It pushes me to keep growing as an artist and keeps my designs fresh and inspired.
Outside of floral design, I continue to nurture my musical roots as a flute teacher, guiding middle school students as they explore their creativity and build confidence through music. I also run Tots and Travels, a small baby equipment rental service that helps visiting families enjoy a smoother, more relaxed Disneyland experience.
SoCal Flower Studio is where my creativity feels most at home. For me, it’s not just about making floral arrangements—it’s about connection, collaboration, and creating beauty that lasts.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
When it comes to networking, I believe it’s an ongoing process—something that evolves right alongside your business. For both Tots and Travels and SoCal Flower Studio, I’ve focused on building attractive, user-friendly websites and conducting thoughtful market research to understand what similar businesses are offering. Joining Facebook groups has also been a great way to connect with clients and peers, share my work, and learn from others in my industry.
What’s worked best for me is finding balance: respecting the line between over-advertising and genuinely providing value through high-quality, engaging content. Patience is another essential part of the process. There will always be other vendors offering lower prices or clients asking for discounts—but I’ve learned to stand by my worth and confidently explain the value behind my materials and craftsmanship.
Networking, to me, isn’t just about exposure—it’s about consistency, authenticity, and staying true to the quality of what you offer.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.socalflowerstudio.com ; www.totsandtravels.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socalflowerstudio/
Image Credits
Whimsical wildflower florals: Adelyn Beltran (https://www.adelynbeltran.com/)
