Sally Nichols lost her job when the Celestica plant in Mt. Pleasant closed in October of 2005. Knowing she’d need to replace her lost income, she began looking for opportunities early and so she learned that the owner of a flourishing, long-time floral business in Burlington was retiring and had put the building and its contents up for sale. Sally thought she could purchase and reopen the business since she had previous experience—she had worked for the business that was for sale and in a competitor’s floral business when she first moved to Burlington.

Sally came to Janine Clover of the Southeastern SBDC for assistance in reviewing the financials of the business. Janine also helped Sally evaluate the existing floral business’ equipment and inventory, and the building itself, to see if the asking price for the business was realistic. They found out that much of the equipment was old, the inventory was dated, and the building was in need of repairs. Together they began evaluating additional options, including Sally opening her own business elsewhere and purchasing some of the previous shop’s equipment or inventory, in order to keep start-up costs down for her own company. Janine helped Sally with her business plan and suggested that the Burlington SCORE chapter should review her business plan and give their experienced opinion on the situation.

Sally did as Janine suggested. SCORE evaluated the purchasing of the business versus starting a new venture, and asked her tough questions about her business plan. After creating financial feasibility statements with Janine’s help, Sally decided to open her own floral business.

In April of 2005, one month after she met with the Southeastern SBDC, Sally found a location, purchased both new and used equipment, hired two of the former florist’s employees, purchased inventory, decided on a logo, and opened her own business called Burlington in Bloom. Sally worked part-time in her florist shop while continuing to work second shift full-time at Celestica until it closed in October. She relied on her employees and husband to close the shop each day.

Because of the Celestica plant closing, Sally was eligible for North America Free Trade Act monies to further her education and acquire skills for new employment. Sally asked the SBDC for advice on what classes she should take to learn more about owning a business, to become the best business owner possible. She took educational training classes offered by the SBDC, such as QuickBooks, Accounting for Small Businesses, and Marketing, and completed her educational plan in June 2007.

With focus, ambition, an ability to make firm decisions, and dedication to getting the necessary education, Sally has become a successful small business owner. Burlington in Bloom currently employs one full-time and three part-time employees. Sales continue to grow each year, enough to justify purchasing the space next to her store and doubling her store’s size one year after starting her business.

Sally never hesitates to come back to the SBDC with questions. She has been a mentor to other women business owners, has been a guest speaker for SBDC events and workshops, and is involved in the Burlington Chamber of Commerce.

Sally says, “Know what you are doing, and love what you’re doing. Get consulting help for your business - before you open and while you are operating - from the SBDC and SCORE.”