Fiona Watson knows the importance of true connection with others. So much so that the Eucalypt Estate resident and proud mum has made it a core pillar of her home-based online Floral business - Dahlia and Thyme Studio Florals.
“Our value proposition is based on living and working within our community,” Fiona explains.
“We are very focused on forging strong ties within our community, providing a personalised service to local businesses, residents and community organisations. We’re passionate about delivering beautiful, locally-sourced (where possible) and sustainably-produced flowers.”
Dedicated to reducing their environmental impact, Dahlia and Thyme use foam-free mechanics and diligent recycling strategies. The home studio is fitted with solar panels and uses recycled water.
The business was born in 2021, and launched officially in May 2022 after delays caused by COVID-19 lockdowns and home-schooling.
Though not without its challenges, Fiona is loving the journey of business ownership thus far.
“I love running my business because it allows me to share the joy of flowers with others! In this sometimes unpredictable world and ever changing world, flowers bring a sense of nature and nurture to our busy lives,” she explains.
“The therapeutic benefits of flowers in our lives are very well documented - cleaner air, great for boosting mood, adding colour and interest, just to name a few. Running my business also allows me to be a Mum and wife and gives me the choice to work with a commitment to the environment.”
Growing online with the Digital Solutions Program
With ‘limited technical skills’ and a preference for flowering over computing, Fiona turned to the Digital Solutions Program to further her knowledge and skills in digital marketing.
Suffice to say, she hasn’t looked back.
“I’ve learned some really useful skills particularly in regard to social media platforms. As my business is largely visual, the information around hashtag strategies, timing and what to post have been invaluable,” Fiona says.
“I have learned so much from the Digital Solutions Program as a whole. It’s been so useful being able to refer to resources at a time that works for me, but also to be able to go back and revisit information when I get stuck on a particular problem.”
“My mentoring with Vicky has been invaluable, Vicky was the first mentor who actively looked in detail at my website and gave me a detailed report of the changes that would be beneficial. Vicky is so knowledgeable and supportive, she left me feeling like she really wants for our business to thrive.”
To date, Fiona has implemented a new social media strategy with plans to do much more.
“Without the help and support of Melbourne Innovation Centre, I would not have felt empowered to implement the changes necessary or recommended. I will continue to reach out and work with Vicky, my mentor as business grows to ensure a strong future. I wholeheartedly recommend the Digital Solutions Program to any small business owner.”
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