Life Is Short. Buy The Flowers.

Unpredictable. That’s life. In between putting our feet on the floor first thing in the morning to closing our eyes late at night, we each face many unknowns. Along with life’s major challenges such as promotions, marriages, births or new homes, uncertainty also swirls around all of our daily routines. For instance, texts, emails, phone calls, knocks on the door, scheduled meetings, and chance encounters are full of variables. While they sometimes bring unexpected pleasure and opportunity, pop-up unpredicabilities usually create a little (or a lot) of strife and extra work. They almost always beg the question, “What next?!”

Now add natural disasters, global pandemic, political polarization, and changing work environments. To these we ask, “What to do?”

Look to petal power.

414loral Arrangement

Entrepreneur Mikel McGee, who owns 414loral (which has an “all for one and one floral” motto) knows that things are particularly challenging these days for everybody. She says, “I think something that has helped is that flowers are a way to bring joy. And in such uncertain times, folks are looking for a way to celebrate small wins.”

Mikel and her small business help many people rejoice in everyday occasions and special events with her “heartfelt and handcrafted” designs. To get a good sense of what she means, visit 414loral’s online gallery, follow on Instagram or stop by the brick and mortar storefront at 2714 N. Doctor M.L.K. Jr. Dr. in Milwaukee.

“Floral design is my soul food,” say Mikel, “it’s something that really fulfills me. I enjoy sharing it with others and seeing when someone receives flowers and how it brightens their day.”

To help spread that joy to as many people as possible, 414loral sponsors a program called, “Flowers For All.” Local change-makers who’ve been making moves in and around the community are nominated to be a “Flowers For All” recipient. Every Friday, 414loral randomly selects one winner who will receive a mini-bouquet delivery.

The reason for the program is simple. Mikel says it’s “because we value community.” Her business gives back in other ways, as well. For instance, it has donated proceeds to organizations such as Pathfinders and the Milwaukee Freedom Fund. Most recently, Mikel explained, “We have organized a school supply drive for Heal the Hood. They do an annual back-to-school block party where they hand out school supplies and have other resources.” 

Other ways Mikel gives back to her community is by sourcing things—as much as possible—from local flower farms. With money she recently received from Fiserv’s Back2Business COVID-19 relief program and the Milwaukee Bucks, she’s also trying to establish a scholarship. “Investing in our community and fostering connections through floral design is something we value at 414loral,” she says.

Mikel’s online skills help her spread the word about everything she has going on at 414loral. Here’s what she says to other small business owners about the importance of being on social media: 

It’s definitely a great free way to advertise and market your brand. I know that it can be daunting, of course, and I think that if you don’t feel comfortable, find someone else who does, because it’s very important. It’s a great way to reach different demographics and really expand your business brand. 

She has more great advice about social media: “Just be yourself. That’s important, really, in any aspect, not just your business. People want to know who is the face behind the business.” Mikel adds, “I don’t always want my face on Instagram. I would prefer for it to be just the flowers, but I’m learning that folks do want to see you and get to know you.”

You can learn more about this Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee 2020 Winner by subscribing to 414loral’s newsletter (scroll down to the bottom of the page). Or visit them online at 414loral.com. They’re both good opportunities to remind yourself, family, and friends that, as Mikel says, “Life is short. Buy the flowers. Take time to celebrate yourself, celebrate others. I just can’t stress enough that life is very uncertain. I think this past year with the pandemic has shown that. So take the time to celebrate when you can.” 

Here’s Some More Information About 414loral:

Mikel McGee is the Owner and Floral Designer.
Sidney Zaug is the Delivery Angel.
Haley Eaglestar Rock is the Resident Photographer (and her photographs rock!).

The shop is nestled in a cozy spot on MLK Drive in Historic Bronzeville. It’s here where they “curate a floral experience that is seasoned with warmth, charm, and personality.”

“Flowers,” says Mikel,  “are delicate living breathing beings—just like us! They need fresh water daily and minimum exposure to the elements.” Spread as much happiness as you can with gift cards from 414loral.