From caregiver to florist: Fil-Canadian Avelyn Ziebart and her tale of success in Vancouver
Photo from avelynflorist/Instagram
In the heart of downtown Vancouver, a floral wonderland blooms at Avelyn Florist Flower Shop. It has a delightful blend of fresh blossoms, whimsical planters, and meticulously arranged dried flowers. What makes this shop even more special is the story behind its owner: Fil-Canadian Avelyn Ziebart is a former caregiver turned entrepreneur.
Ziebart’s journey began in 2005 when she arrived in Canada as a nanny. After working as a housekeeper for two years, she brought her sisters and mother to Canada. Following marriage and family life, Ziebart’s creative aspirations led her to floral arrangement classes and a stint at a flower shop.
When the pandemic hit, she was laid off. This sparked her decision to open her own flower shop, which thrived with an initial investment of $40,000 and achieved a remarkable 90 percent return. Despite inflation challenges, Ziebart’s unwavering determination shines through.
Avelyn Florist Flower Shop is a testament to her enduring passion for flowers and her commitment to making them the “ultimate expression of love.” The shop offers a wide selection of beautiful flowers, from traditional roses to exotic orchids, to ensure that you’ll find the perfect bouquet for any occasion.
Each creation reflects Ziebart’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship, with executions that make every bouquet a work of art. With a wide range of prices, the shop caters to various budgets, making the beauty of their blooms accessible to all.
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But Ziebart’s commitment doesn’t stop at offering exquisite flowers. She also specializes in customization. In the corporate arena, Ziebart and her team excel at transforming office lobbies into inviting spaces with tailored floral arrangements that harmonize with each business’s unique ambiance and branding.
Her other floral ventures
In the wedding category, Avelyn Florist is renowned for event styling and floral embellishments, combining natural elegance with modern sophistication. Each wedding design is a bespoke creation, crafted in collaboration with couples to bring their vision to life.
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Moreover, Ziebart’s dedication extends beyond her shop’s walls. She actively participates in the community, collaborating with neighboring businesses and engaging in initiatives that celebrate diversity and inclusivity. In 2021, she joined forces with Salt Tasting Room for a special Valentine’s Day collaboration, offering delightful packages that included a “forever rose”—a constant reminder of love.
Ziebart’s dedication to community events
Ziebart’s commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community was also evident when she contributed to the vibrant Pride celebrations in Vancouver. She participated in the creation of interactive rainbow floral displays, paying homage to the LGBTQIA+ community during the Vancouver Pride Festival. Her involvement in events like these underscores her dedication to making flowers the universal language of love.
Ziebart’s transformation from caregiver to successful florist is a story of remarkable determination and perseverance. Her flower shop, more than just a place to buy flowers, embodies love, creativity, and community.
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Whether you’re searching for a breathtaking bouquet for a special occasion or aiming to enhance your space with tailored floral arrangements, Avelyn Florist Flower Shop stands as the ultimate destination for all your floral needs. Her simple yet profound advice to fellow Filipinos aspiring to start their own businesses is to conquer fear and embrace the pursuit of dreams, even in uncertain times.
