written by: Zanne Lamb-Hunt
Chris and Melissa Popple of Candlelight Floral Designs were interviewed by Eric Verdi for Frederick Advice Givers Podcast #011. The results have been so phenomenal that Chris now returns to deliver updates on the business and a huge Thank You. There has been an incredible surge in sales!
“The level of business that we saw, directly as a result of that Podcast, surprised us…honestly! It’s just really great! We’ve made a lot of new friends.” And, a lot of loyal and repeat customers!
Chris continues, “We’ve had a lot of customers approach us. They’ve heard the Podcast and they wanted to check us out because of that.” He leaves no room for doubt that kudos goes to Frederick Advice Givers. Although, the Popples warm and friendly personalities, eclectic creations and determination to deliver on customer satisfaction are at the root of their success story!
Yet, realizing that promotional tools are the catalyst to spurring significant business growth, Chris strongly encourages others to go the Podcast interview route. The results have been absolutely astounding! “I’m definitely an advocate for any business owners who are thinking about doing something like this. It worked for us and it was great!”
The Podcast interview brought new customers and the customers brought along suggestions to grow the business even more!
Customer Feedback Inspires a New Web Design
The new design elements that you’ll find at their website are the direct result of feedback from the new customers who learned about Candlelight Floral Designs through the Frederick Advice Givers Podcast. One of the greatest changes is the ability to view and purchase floral arrangements online.
They’ve teamed up with BloomNation and now take about 90% of their orders directly on the website. Photographs by Annie Walters depict the numerous eclectic floral creations that are available for delivery. It’s a great convenience for customers who prefer to browse the floral selections online and it’s a great time-saver for the business!
Candlelight Floral Designs vs. National Outlets Like 1-800-Flowers
* Chris and Melissa provide the personal touch! That’s not going to happen when you order through a national supplier. “When you receive the flowers, you get them in a box. You receive the flowers and a vase. Then, it’s all up to you. You have to cut, hydrate and arrange the flowers yourself.”
While some people can pull it off with decent results, others simply can’t…or don’t want to! And, as Candlelight’s regular customers already know, it’s not just about the arrangements — it’s also about the containers! Everything about Candlelight’s floral designs spells s-p-e-c-i-a-l because that’s what every customer is to Chris and Melissa…very special!
* The Popples rely on and support local farmers as much as possible. They believe it’s important to help sustain the local suppliers. And, they know that the freshest flowers don’t come wholesale through a chain of middlemen.
Attaining the freshest flowers translates into selections that are the most aromatic. And, since the flowers are fresher when cut, customers can expect them to have a longer life.
* Deliveries can be timed! For instance, realtors sometimes arrange for flowers to arrive at the closing table where the papers are being signed. “In one case,” shares Chris, “the couple had just received the key to their new home!”
It was an especially memorable delivery because Candlelight Floral Designs had also provided the wedding flowers for this couple only weeks earlier! Imagine providing a product and a service that touches others on the all-important milestones in their lives. Welcome to Chris and Melissa’s reality!
The Services Are as Eclectic as The Floral Arrangements
Chris and Melissa go far beyond supporting local farmers and creating beautiful ‘oh my…I want the number of your florist!’ arrangements. They are ‘consumer friendly’ in every possible way. What do they offer that inspires customer loyalty? What makes their business model so different?
* Floral designs with European and Australian influences
A lifetime of travels inspire the creative floral interpretations. Tropical beaches? Snow-capped mountains? Be amazed by Melissa’s floral artistry!
* No consultation fees!
There’s no charge to talk about your floral dreams. Better yet…they’ll make them come true!
* No minimum order!
Of course, the more the merrier! The Popple’s love working with flowers…it’s their passion! But, don’t hesitate to request the simplest, single hand-tied bouquet or a single flower in a vase. It’s okay…it really is. You’ll get the same professional attention to detail, regardless.
* Available beyond store hours!
Chris and Melissa understand that there’s sometimes a need for contact when the shop is closed. A spontaneous event, a sudden need to discuss a design idea for wedding bouquets and decor, an upcoming milestone, a funeral…they all deserve special attention. Just give a call!
* DIY Wine & Design at Candlelight’s Studio 36 Workshop
Bring your bridal party, friends and family for some creative fun making your own floral arrangements. Your creations will be properly refrigerated and checked for perfection prior to delivery at the event venue.
* Floral dreams come true. The Popple’s say ‘yes’ when others say ‘no’ and they make it happen!
For those special ‘once in a lifetime’ moments, there’s no room for disappointment. Share your vision and watch it appear!
Candlelight Floral Designs For The Holidays
Although November through January are typically the quiet months for florists, there’s no slowing down for Chris and Melissa. In fact, they’re so busy that they’ve been advertising for some much needed help!
‘Tis the season for table centerpieces for get-togethers and family time. It’s also the time to get festive with entrances, foyers, lobbies, reception areas and offices. The Popples are ready to serve the community with eclectic flair for Thanksgiving, Christmas and ….Valentine’s Day??
Yes, they’re already planning that far ahead! “Before you’re thinking about buying those roses, we’re thinking about where we’re going to get them from and who we’ll be able to support — which local farms are going to have them.”
The Yellow Van That Can!
Sustainability on the move! Candlelight Floral Designs deliveries are made in a bright yellow, beautifully restored 1960’s step van! Give a wave when you spot it on the road. That’s Chris Popple behind the wheel!
You Can Give Your Business A Boost, Too!
Chris advises other local business owners and entrepreneurs to go to FrederickPodcastBooking.com to arrange a business-boosting Podcast interview, too! Just like the Popples, you can increase sales and grow your ‘friend’s list’ at the same time! “It’s been really great for us and I’m a huge advocate!”
Candlelight Floral Designs
10 West Main Street in Middletown (right next door to Main Cup)
240-490-5508
candlelightfloraldesigns.com
facebook.com/CandlelightFloralDesigns
Content provided by Frederick Advice Givers Podcast #023 You’re quite welcome, Chris!
Leave a Reply