Amber Weaver just graduated from college, yet she’s already making a name for herself. The young entrepreneur started a fresh-cut flower business, Pinkney Farm, during her senior year and amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Against all odds, the young entrepreneur built a thriving business with literally her bare hands. “I purchased all the materials needed and a 20-by-60-foot greenhouse and moved it to the farm and started planting,” Weaver says.
See more: Business Is Blossoming at Sunshine Lavender Farm
Life on the Flower Farm
Pinkney Farm, named after the road it sits on, sells locally grown cut flowers, hanging baskets, pumpkins, produce and eggs. Every product is fresh from the field, greenhouse or coop, and Weaver prides herself on delivering the highest-quality goods to her customers. She sells to individuals at farmers markets and through her website and Facebook page. In addition, florists and event designers can purchase flowers from Weaver wholesale to get a fresh selection of stems without worrying about shipping.
Weaver loves to share her passion for growing and arranging flowers and has this advice for those looking to create their own floral bouquets.
“When creating your arrangement, it’s important to start with a clean vase, clean water and stems cut at an angle,” she says. “I recommend using a ball of chicken wire in the bottom of shorter vases to provide support and give the arrangement structure. Another tip is to remove any foliage that will be below the water level to prevent the growth of bacteria. When you begin arranging, start by creating a base with greenery and foliage. Then, add in your focal flowers and finally fill in empty spaces with filler flowers to create a beautiful arrangement.”
Business Is Blooming
Although the pandemic has negatively affected many businesses, Weaver says the floral industry has fared well during uncertain times.
“I’ve noticed people are sending more flowers since they aren’t able to go visit their loved ones,” she says. “People who have been cooped up in their homes are finding joy in having fresh-cut flowers, which has been beneficial to my business.”
Although Pinkney Farm is in its infancy, Weaver has big dreams for its future.
“My goal is to open a store in an old farmhouse located on the property to sell flowers, produce, eggs and container plants along with other local goods,” she says. “I also plan to host workshops and U-picks at the farm to get the local community involved in agriculture. My biggest goal is to have a wedding venue on the farm, which will also be a nice place to host other activities.”
This year, Pinkney Farm added Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) packages for fresh-cut flowers, which are available for purchase on its website. Customers can choose to have four, six or 12 weeks of fresh flowers delivered right to their door, contact-free.
See more: How Sunflowers Helped One North Carolina Farmer Reach New Markets
Mantra for Success
While her degree in agriculture production systems is the strong foundation she needed to forge ahead with her business plans, Weaver says she still has plenty to learn. “My advice to anyone wanting to start their own business is to start small and go for it. Once you get started, new opportunities will come your way and you’ll begin to grow. It’s important not to get in over your head and start your business with more than you can handle. Start small and build your way up as you learn and grow,” she says.
– Amanda Allworth
For more information about Pinkney Farm, including CSA and wedding package prices and upcoming farm events, visit pinkneyfarm.com. You can also follow the farm on Facebook and Instagram @pinkneyfarmnc.Learn More
