Tranell Green, Baskets Galore Floral Design
When I first came to the program in the fall of 2006, I was employed at a company where I was about to be laid off. Expanding Baskets Galore was the logical decision. Several of my co-workers heard about the program and suggested I contact them. I had been creating custom gift baskets for about four years, worked part-time in my business, and did not have a store front. The coaches understand the challenges of just starting out. They work together with you to get creative and work with what you have. My home was located in an area that was becoming very commercial, and with the help of my coach, we figured out a viable space there to become my storefront. The first 90 days with my coach, we developed a business plan and worked on financial statements. I had never done that before and it was huge for me! Really understanding my financial numbers and what it means to my business was a big step. Together, we worked on zoning issues and getting my first bank loan. I was successful in getting the loan, I have a storefront, and now I am working to put a branch of Baskets Galore in a local hospital.
This program is the place to be to help assess where you are and determine where you want to go. I was so happy when I got a spot on a team. Together, with a coach, you set goals, and then you actually reach those goals. The coach doesn’t do it for you. You decide what you want, your coach listens, and together, you create a shared vision. I faced a lot of negatives when first starting out. They gave me the encouragement I needed and helped with figuring out how to be successful. For my first year in business, 2007, we projected $72,000 in revenues and actually ended the year at $77,000. 2008 promises to be topping out at $150,000. I would not have improved as fast, or have reached this point without their help.
I know for small business people, this program is one of the best things to happen to Central Louisiana. It gets the ideas out of your head and on the table. Not everyone can take business classes or go to college. The business experiences, knowledge, and game plans that the coaches offer makes it comparable to being a ‘university’ that comes to you every week. Coaches are local business leaders, people you recognize from the community. They let you know that everyone goes through what we go through. They speak from the depths of their hearts.
Floral shop specializing in custom gift baskets and wedding designs