PLEASE HELP SAVE BOHO BOUQUET BAR AND MY LIVELIHOOD

PLEASE HELP SAVE BOHO BOUQUET BAR AND MY LIVELIHOOD

From day one, Boho Bouquet Bar has been a joyful sight in Chicago. But, I am struggling to keep it, and myself, afloat. I feel terribly uncomfortable and vulnerable in my sharing, but I needed to set aside my pride and ask for your help so I can continue working in effort to take care of myself and keep a roof over my head.

I love going to work every day, and I’m good at it. Locals and tourists stop to chat and take pictures because of the concept and joy it brings simply with its presence. I have repeat customers because of the proven quality of my bouquets. A couple of months ago, as I grew more concerned about finances, I considered selling the van. But, every person in my life convinced me it was too soon and that I needed to keep this incredible business.

Before I could slide the door open for business, I researched everything I could find on similar business models nationwide. Still, nothing could prepare me for what I was creating as there were no other exact business models like Boho, including in Chicago. Nor was there any information warning me that flowers die if you try to sell them in a van with the door open in weather below 32 degrees. Which I did, and lost everything. Insert screeching halt here.

I began Boho Bouquet Bar after four years of unsuccessfully securing employment after my divorce and the pandemic (recreating and creatively thinking outside the box of my very old resume). While continuing my job search, I began researching the concept, flowers, pricing, trucks (ugh), you name it. Then, after four months of trying to figure out with the city which type of business license fit the concept, I used my tiny nest egg to invest in the purchase and customizing of the van, and we were in business on September 1st! I desperately needed a job, so I invested in myself and a business. However, it was just a couple of months before winter was due to rear its ugly head.

I was able to create some indoor business, but being a new company, that also takes time. I applied for numerous grants and continue to do so. Unfortunately, grants are becoming fewer and far between, and business loans are not a feasible option.

Simply put, I don’t want to close Boho Bouquet Bar, and I need to keep this job. But, it takes funds to pay for the business’ daily expenses, insurance, parking, etc. As well, for me to earn a paycheck so I can pay for rent, insurance, utilities, food, etc. So I am asking for a “public grant,” i.e., GoFundMe, to keep it open. If you love flowers (and me), and have the means to help, please donate to help Boho survive.