“ I liked that CEF was able to coach me through a lot of the paperwork & requirements for the loan. I don’t think I would have gotten my loan without the coaching team!”
– Bee Smith, Owner

Q&A with Owner, Bee Smith

Give a high level overview of your business. What products or services you offer, where you're located, etc.
I am a floral design studio and gift shop. I offer a build your own bouquet bar, floral arrangements, delivery and I also sell gift items like jewelry, candles, etc. I also offer weekly design classes, funeral and event flowers.

How did the idea for your business come about?
I have been a florist for 15 years and I have managed two shops. I've always had ideas about things I would do if I had my own place and I decided to make that dream a reality!

What neighborhood is your business located in and what do you love about that location?
My shop is in the Patty Jewitt Neighborhood of Colorado Springs. I love that this neighborhood is big on community. The other shops here work together to boost eachother and the customers frequently walk from home with their kids or dogs. It's a really nice little area close to downtown and parks.

What led your business to seek out new/additional funding?
I knew I wanted to start a brick and mortar store but also knew that it would take a lot more money than I had to start.

What was your experience like when trying to get funding for your business? Ie, how long had you been looking? Did you experience difficulties, etc.?
I was hitting wall after wall with banks and loan company's and finally found CEF. They were able to coach me through the loan process and help me get the funding I needed!

What was different about working with CEF compared to other lenders?
I liked that CEF was able to coach me through a lot of the paperwork and requirements for the loan.

What were you able to do with the funding you received from CEF?
With the funding I received I was able to rent my location and install the coolers and sinks I needed to do my work as a floral designer. I was also able to furnish and decorate my store and stock it with items for sale.

Have you worked with our Business Navigation (coaching) team?
Yes.

What difference has working with them made for your business?
I don't think I would have gotten my loan without the coaching team!

What recent success(es) have you experienced in your business?
I made a lot of good contacts through an Oktoberfest event where I sold bouquets and jewelry, I've taken some funeral work and am hoping to have more come in the future, and I hosted a class just last night where one of the students ended up placing a large order at the end of the night!