Issue 005: A Void Becomes an Opportunity
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“Sometimes you never know the value of a moment
until it becomes a memory.”
– Dr. Seuss
To me, May offers opportunities. Perhaps it’s the longer daylight hours with vibrant flowers blooming—a sign of growth and promise. Or could be May represents gratitude, happiness and celebrations, such as Mother’s Day and prom.
Think back to the excitement you felt as a high school senior. Remember shopping for prom gowns, tuxes, and flowers? Blame me for the sky blue tux my date wore.
High school students this year will not have traditional prom memories.
As the mom of a high schooler, Jennifer Eaton, owner of Copper Penny Flowers floral boutique in Concord, Massachusetts, understood the emotional ride the 2020 graduating class was on as traditional school events were cancelled. She wanted to fill the void and give her son and others an opportunity to celebrate. That void dovetailed with Jennifer’s business quest.
“I figured the way I would survive <the pandemic> was to find a way to keep the shop busy,” shares Jennifer. “A lot of restaurants do walk-in but not delivery. I have a delivery van and staff. We have an attractive small town with a community that supports local businesses.“
“I wanted to make it easy for the community to support us. I called other businesses to partner. Some never returned my call,” says Jennifer. “Others called me back right away and said ‘I’m in.’”
Concord Friday Night Food, Flowers, and Fun dinners were born, themed packages that included flowers, dinner, and a game delivered no contact to the doorstep. “I said I’d be happy if we got 10 orders,” admits Jennifer. “We had to shut down orders at 50 the first week. Five weeks later, we were still selling out.” In May, the theme became Concord Prom Dinner focusing on typical prom components. Copper Penny Flowers provides a coordinated corsage and a boutonnière, Saltbox Kitchen creates an upscale teen-friendly meal with dessert, and Joy Street provides sparklers and disco party light.
Jennifer’s packages continue to grow, now including birthday and graduation packages. Those other businesses probably wish they answered Jennifer’s call.
Jennifer’s creativity showed her son how to Flip It™—turn a challenge into an opportunity. Also, her collaboration supported multiple local businesses while helping the community create happy memories.
Ten years from now the 2020 prom couples will remember prom night with a smile.
What specific aroma, song, or place can bring a smile?
What can you do right now to create happy memories for your future?
Who can you collaborate with to create a powerful team?
Until next time, make it a Bounce-Up™ Day!
Mj
P.S. What an exciting week with my book release and being a guest on several podcasts. What was one good thing that happened to you?
