Meet Kaitlan Long: Master Floral Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kaitlan Long  and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kaitlan, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision that I have ever had to make would be choosing to make the jump from everything I’ve ever know to something total brand new. I always had the mindset that I would become a veterinarian and own my own animal hospital. I started working at a local vet hospital in 10th grade and remained there for the next 7 years. The tough decision came when my husband and I became pregnant with our first child!! I couldn’t handle the very demanding work load at the vet hospital anymore and a position came available at the local flower so I made the jump! That was the most rewarding, tough decision I’ve ever made. After a year of working there I ended up buying the buisness from the previous owner.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud of being self taught. It is soo rewarding to go through the struggles, stress, and tears just to back up and see the end design come to life! I have had to overcome many battles and hurdles to get to where I am today! Many people in my small town either didn’t believe in me or said negative things about me when I was starting out. That was a big deal being 1 of the 2 storefront florists in town. I had to buckle down and put forth all my effort to prove them wrong. I also had to climb my way up the ladder one step at a time. I put forth so much energy to actually show my face and talents and make lasting friendships with local venues and other wedding professionals. Some of the lessons I have learned along the way would be: – NEVER sell yourself short!! Set yourself a standard and don’t bend below it. Know your worth!! – Learn to say no It is so easy when you are first starting out to say yes to everything!! I found myself in these shoes and realized I was burning myself out. Once I started taking on less I was able to focus and make the events I had even better!! I would like the world to know that me and my 2 girls do everything in our power to bring our brides dreams a life. You are more than just a bride to us, you become family!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We have a pretty cool vineyard in our backyard that has the best wine slushies and live music! If you love outdoors and adventure we have soo many hiking trials. Some even include waterfalls. We have a mountain that was used in military training and the tallest waterfall this side of the Mississippi.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize my husband, my family and my coworkers who became friends. My husband is my biggest cheerleader!! He always supports me and my every move. He knows how to encourage me to do better than my latest goal!! He always nows what’s to say when I’m down to help build me back up! Without him I would only be half of what I am today! My family, they are some of my biggest fans!! They are the most supportive group of people that I have in my life! They always believe in me and never second guess my dreams! I’m so glad to have then along this journey of mine. My coworkers, well more like my best friends, I would be nothing without them! They have helped grown my little shop into something big! I am forever grateful for their friendship and floral talents!!

Website: www.downtownflowerstoccoa.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/downtownflowers17

Facebook: Facebook.com/downtownflowers17

Yelp: Yelp.com/biz/downtown-flowers-toccoa

Other: Email: downtownflowersandmarket@gmail.com

Image Credits
#1 head shot — Hello Jude photography, Owner Bailey Weisser #4 yellow install — Alex Thornton Photography We personally took all the rest.