Rigieta Takayawa has established herself as a beloved figure at the Suva Municipal Market, having dedicated over 20 years of her life to the art of floristry. As one of the long-serving florists in the market, Ms. Takayawa has witnessed its evolution and the retirement or passing of many fellow flower sellers who once shared the stalls with her.
For Ms. Takayawa, floristry transcends mere occupation; it embodies her passion and a source of independence. “Being a florist allows me to be my own boss, manage my own time, and make decisions that directly affect my business,” she explains. This autonomy is a key reason she has thrived in her profession for so long, despite the inherent challenges.
One of the most bustling times for florists like Ms. Takayawa is Valentine’s Day, when demand for flowers surges significantly. She recounts how customers flock to the market at daybreak, eager to find the perfect arrangement. “Red roses, mixed bouquets, and specially arranged flowers become top sellers, and orders often begin coming in days in advance,” she notes. The spike in sales during this period dramatically boosts her business, underscoring its importance.
However, the busy season also presents its share of challenges. Ms. Takayawa stresses the necessity for meticulous preparation to meet the high demand. This entails sourcing abundant fresh flowers, ensuring their proper arrangement and longevity, and often involving long hours that start earlier and end later than usual. “Despite the physical strain, I believe the effort is worth it,” she asserts.
The pressure of meeting customer expectations during this time can be intense, as many shoppers arrive with specific ideas in mind on how to convey their love and appreciation. Effective communication is crucial; Ms. Takayawa strives to listen closely to her clients’ visions while offering practical suggestions that align with the availability and budget.
Through her dedication and patience, she builds lasting relationships with her customers, often seeing them return year after year. The satisfaction of fulfilling their desires and witnessing their joy keeps her motivated, even when the work becomes overwhelming. “Seeing their smiles and hearing their appreciation rewards me, and I know that I play a role in helping them celebrate love and relationships,” she reflects.
Although challenges like rising supplier costs, competition, and physically demanding labor persist, Ms. Takayawa remains steadfast in her commitment to her craft. After two decades in the floristry business, she continues to find fulfillment in connecting with customers and being part of their special moments, reaffirming the meaningful role she plays in shaping their celebrations and expressing emotions through flowers.
Her story exemplifies the passion and perseverance that many small business owners embody, and her commitment to her craft offers a hopeful reminder of the joy that can come from following one’s passion.
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