We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Balcom and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Crystal, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Founded “Once upon a quarantine” Ever After Bouquet was funded using unemployment during the pandemic. I invested everything into experimenting, researching, learning and mastering this floral science (which I should mention is not an affordable hobby.) At the time, there were no modern floral preservation studios in the greater western USA, no tutorials on this subject. I began on the floor of a spare bedroom in my home, dreaming of introducing this business to California Weddings, though during a time of economic uncertainty it was a major risk. I had taken a leap of faith this floral concept would bloom once Covid had passed. To my surprise, and right as my unemployment checks ran out, I was quickly immersed into this beautiful industry during the historic wedding boom, an unanticipated event resulting in more demand than I could have imagined. There were days I dedicated 24 hours at the office, often setting aside social life to work harder towards my vision. Not only has the business been a success, it was voted “Best Bridal Service” statewide by California Wedding Day Magazine, an accomplishment far beyond my dreams. I am still trying to find a balance, as most entrepreneurs know that with success comes sacrifice, but when you truly love what you do, it’s worth it. I am a firm believer and I hope, inspiration, that if you dream it, you can achieve it.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a founding father of my industry, it is with great pride to lead with creativity and find ways to scale the business. One achievement is being the first ever preservation company to offer items for the wedding, such as table numbers, napkin rings, shot glasses and placeholders that have won standing ovations at vendor events, and been spotlight features for high end magazines.
We also offer unique, 100% hand crafted and designed in-house items for our bouquet preservation. Bridal favorites include shot glasses, champagne flutes, and Robert Indiana “Love” sign! We also offer unique design layouts and have been praised nationwide for outstanding artistic composition.
One of the biggest challenges is to justify pricing, just as an experienced and talented photographer charges more, my prices reflect the experience. quality, and overall expertise of the service. It truly is a science, this floral magic thing. And Its not just flowers in resin, it’s art!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Living in Temecula, CA I’d start with the wineries! Plus, they’ll get to see the beautiful wedding venues I have worked with. One of my favorites is Avensole, they have a beautiful relaxing view, great food, and wine selection.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My fiancé is an entrepreneur owning a media company specializing in action sports. He has encouraged me to follow my heart and inspired me to leave a previous corporate position. His philosophy is to find something that makes you “whistle while you work”. I can proudly say, I have found myself often whistling while working my magic on flowers, because not only do I love my career but I am also am helping couples cherish a memory forever. It is such an honor to be trusted with something so special. It is so important to surround yourself with uplifting and positive people who believe in you, he is that and so much more. I’d like to give him all the credit for being my rock through this incredible journey, good times and all time lows he has encouraged me to continue working towards my dream.
Website: Www.everafterbouquet.com
Instagram: @everafterbouquet
Facebook: Ever After Bouquet
Other: Podcast (guest) https://open.spotify.com/episode/60SpM2wp0Ild3IoXhSk6g5?si=TqZJQTg9RXCfzC8W9O_2Hw https://californiaweddingday.com/ever-after-bouquet
Image Credits
Location: Vibiana Events Center, 2022 Event: California Wedding Day “Best of Awards Ceremony” Award: “Best Bridal Product & Service Statewide “