We recently had the chance to connect with Jezz Martinez and have shared our conversation below.
Jezz, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
As a Flower Shop owner, my typical day begins early with receiving fresh flower deliveries and checking inventory. I spend the morning arranging bouquets for various occasions, followed by interacting with customers to help them choose the perfect flowers.
In the afternoon, I assist fulfill orders and prepare for upcoming events by coordinating details with clients. After cleaning up and ensuring flowers are stored properly at the end of the day, I reflect on the day’s successes and areas for improvement. It’s a busy but fulfilling job that me so much joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a passionate floral designer at The Rooted Petals, where I create beautiful and meaningful arrangements for every occasion. Our brand is founded on the belief that flowers can express emotions, celebrate milestones, and brighten daily life.
What sets my shop apart is our commitment to sourcing sustainable, locally grown flowers whenever possible. I enjoy experimenting with various styles and color palettes, ensuring that each arrangement tells a unique story.
Right now, I’m excited to expand our offerings to include workshops where customers can learn the art of flower arranging. Additionally, I’m incorporating rare plants into our inventory, that will also help build a community of rare plant enthusiasts.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents have been my greatest teachers when it comes to work, instilling values that have profoundly shaped my approach to my business. They exemplified hard work, dedication, and integrity, and their resilience and positive attitudes in the face of challenges inspired me to cultivate a strong work ethic.
I remember several years ago when I came to the United States for my internship, starting as a housekeeper. Through determination and hard work, I eventually became a Hotel Director. This journey was not just about climbing the career ladder; it taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of building relationships in the workplace.
During my time in the hotel industry, I learned to appreciate the diverse backgrounds and experiences of my colleagues and guests. This enriched my understanding of service and hospitality, motivating me to create welcoming environments for everyone. I also realized the importance of mentoring others, sharing my journey and insights to inspire those starting their own paths.
This experience reinforced my belief that with dedication and clear goals, anyone can achieve their dreams. I carry these lessons with me as I continue to grow, always striving to make a positive impact in my work and the lives of others.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
The defining wounds of my life have shaped my resilience and perspective. One significant wound was the feeling of displacement when I moved to the United States for my internship. Leaving my family and familiar surroundings was challenging, and I initially struggled with loneliness and self-doubt.
Healing from that experience involved embracing new opportunities and building a support system. I connected with fellow interns and colleagues, which helped me forge friendships and create a sense of belonging. I also immersed myself in my work, channeling my energy into my passion for hospitality and service. This focus allowed me to find purpose and joy in my new environment.
Another defining wound was the pressure to succeed in a competitive industry. There were moments of failure and setbacks, which often felt disheartening. To heal, I learned to shift my mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as obstacles. I sought mentorship from experienced professionals who offered guidance and encouragement, helping me regain my confidence.
Through self-reflection, I’ve come to understand that these wounds, while painful, have ultimately contributed to my strength and perseverance. By acknowledging my struggles and learning from them, I’ve been able to grow both personally and professionally, using my experiences to inspire others on their journeys.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me reflects many aspects of who I am, but it’s not the entirety of my being. While I strive to be authentic and genuine in my interactions, there are layers to my personality and experiences that I may share selectively.
In public, I focus on my professional identity, my work as a floral designer and the values that drive my business. I aim to inspire and connect with others through my passion for flowers and creativity. However, my personal life, including my vulnerabilities, struggles, and deeper emotions, often remains more private.
I believe that sharing my journey, including both the triumphs and challenges, helps create a more relatable and human connection with others. Ultimately, while the public version of me is real, it is just one facet of my whole self, shaped by both my professional aspirations and personal experiences.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I retired tomorrow, my customers would likely miss the personal touch and creativity I bring to my floral designs. Each arrangement is crafted with care and attention to detail, reflecting not just the beauty of the flowers but also the emotions and stories behind them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.therootedpetals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therootedpetals
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therootedpetals
