This archive report was first published on 24 June 2020.
With 23 years of experience in the florist business, Peris Njeri has learned the importance of adaptability. Her journey began as an employee at a leading flower shop in the city, where she spent six years mastering the art of floral arrangements.
After six years, Njeri felt restless and decided to venture out on her own, becoming a mobile florist for three years. She would travel to offices and other venues to create beautiful floral arrangements. Eventually, she was able to save enough to set up her own flower shop, which marked the beginning of Pien Florists.
Today, Pien Florists is a successful business with a string of flower shops, and Njeri has taken her craft beyond the borders of Kenya. In this interview, she shares her experiences, from competing with her former employer to adapting to changing market trends.
One of the highlights of her business was being contracted to do State House events, including the late President Daniel Moi's send-off. She also had the honor of working on the floral arrangements for Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Uganda in 2006.
When asked about her decision to leave employment, Njeri said it was the best move she ever made. Being her own boss gave her the flexibility she craved, and she was able to replicate the success she had enjoyed in employment.
However, competing with her former employer was a challenge. To carve a niche for herself, Njeri had to do things differently, introducing a new technique of using oasis floral foam to design flowers. This innovation opened many doors to success, and she started getting orders from across East Africa.
A typical day for Njeri begins early, visiting flower markets to select the best cut flowers for her clients' events. She works late into the nights to ensure that every arrangement is perfect.
Her clients range from walk-ins to corporate clients, and she gets new clients mainly through referrals. Njeri has also had long-running contracts with loyal clients, including events for State House.
Looking back, Njeri wishes she had foreseen the rise of the events industry, which has overshadowed other aspects of the business. However, she has adapted to the changing market trends and continues to innovate, showcasing her creativity in international flower shows.
As a successful entrepreneur, Njeri has also mentored and trained many florists, who are now working outside the country.
