“Collaboration over competition is not just a catchy phrase; it’s a mindset that transforms.” – Kelsea Olivia.
This is the ethos we live by at CEO School, and it perfectly encapsulates the spirit of our latest podcast episode featuring Kelsea Olivia, the visionary founder of East Olivia.
Kelsea isn’t just a guest; she’s a masterclass in the art of building a business from the ground up with grace, grit, and a whole lot of greenery. Based in NYC but with roots in sunny California, Kelsea embodies the free-spirited entrepreneur who has made it her mission to beautify the world, one floral arrangement at a time.
The Unlikely Journey from Music to Florals
Imagine pivoting from a decade in the music industry to pioneering large-scale floral installations. That’s Kelsea for you – a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to follow your passion. Her story is a reminder that the path to success is rarely linear but always vibrant, especially when you dare to venture off the beaten path.
Kelsea encourages us to “get our hands dirty” and learn through doing, as true expertise comes from experience. “I had never done anything like that before,” she says about her first large-scale installation, teaching us that the path to mastery is paved with challenges turned into opportunities. This was the moment that sparked a transformation, turning a temporary gig at Anthropologie into the birthplace of East Olivia.
Cold Emails and Hot Opportunities
Kelsea’s journey underscores a powerful lesson: never underestimate the power of a cold email. Her initiative to reach out to Create & Cultivate led to her first large-scale installation, proving that sometimes, all it takes is the courage to ask. In essence, Kelsea strongly advocates that you’re just one email away from the next big thing in your business.
Working the Room: A Founder’s Superpower
Here at CEO School, we’re all about breaking down the barriers that hold us back, and Kelsea’s approach to networking is a masterclass in doing just that. The most vibrant flower in the room is the one willing to bloom where everyone can see, this episode is a reminder to embrace our presence, make genuine connections, and seize every opportunity to shine.
Building Your Community: The CEO School Way
Entrepreneurship can feel like a solitary journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Kelsea’s story emphasizes the importance of finding your tribe and fostering authentic connections.
“Finding the right team members is a blessing, even though it can be very challenging to get there,”
she reflects, highlighting the value of community and support in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Lessons in Growth and Grit
Kelsea openly shares the financial and hiring challenges she faced, providing invaluable insights for fellow entrepreneurs.
“If I could go back, I’d tell my younger self to get a financial advisor ASAP,”
she advises, stressing the importance of financial literacy and strategic hiring from the get-go.
To Owning Our Success Stories One Bold Move at a Time
As we wrap up this episode, Kelsea invites us to join her in celebrating love and beauty, especially as Valentine’s Day approaches. East Olivia is not just about flowers; it’s about brand expression, creating moments, and transforming spaces.
This blog post is your VIP pass to the front row of CEO School, where being badass, confident, and empowered isn’t just encouraged; it’s the curriculum. We’re here to flip the script on entrepreneurship, transforming every “I can’t” into “I absolutely will.” With every story shared and lesson learned, we’re not just aiming for success; we’re redefining it on our terms. So, buckle up, ladies. It’s time to seal the deal on your dreams with a dose of sass, a sprinkle of savvy, and a whole lot of unstoppable girl boss energy.
Let this podcast be the spark that ignites your fire. Join us at CEO School, and let’s make this year unapologetically ours.
Remember, in the world of CEO School, class is always in session, and together, we’re unstoppable. Let’s do this, ladies!
Connect with Kelsea here.
Discover East Olivia.
