Christine Saunders

Roses. Lilies. Daisies. Camellias. Alstroemeria. Such were the things Christine Saunders dreamed of, even while working as a planner and analyst. The heady aroma of flowers filled her senses. She could envision beautiful weddings, exquisite banquet tables and delighted families opening their doors to receive gorgeous bouquets of flowers. And she wanted to be the one providing it all.

In 2004, Christine took the first step to fulfill her passion with the launch of her own business, The Spiraled Stem Floral Design, while continuing her demanding career with the Orange County Transit Authority, then the Port of Los Angeles and ultimately the City of Orange. Although the business was profitable from day one, its growth was limited by the time and revenue Christine could invest in it. In 2005, 2006 and 2007, her sales revenue and number of clients were absolutely flat. It became clear that she would have to adopt another strategy if she wanted her business to blossom. Therefore, in August, 2007, Christine quit her job to focus all of her energy and resources on The Spiraled Stem.  

Turning to the Orange County Small Business Development Center, Christine began working with counselor Linda Harasin on a three-year business plan. Upon Linda’s recommendation, Christine joined the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce, and a new idea bore fruit.

With another Anaheim business owner, Christine established a special event floral design and catering company: the Green Event Studio. The 1,320-square-foot space allowed The Spiraled Stem to move out of her one-car garage, while providing a resource center for eco-friendly wedding and event planning. Brides and other “green” sustainable event planners will also be able to use the facility, which opens its doors in late January, 2008. The business plan process is helping Christine to think through this new direction for her business, as it also lays a foundation to solicit future funding.

 In addition, Linda advised Christine to join the Anaheim/Orange County Visitors and Convention Bureau, which resulted in immediate increased business for The Spiraled Stem.  She has served several corporate clients obtained by Chamber referrals, most recently the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., the first restaurant to open at Garden Walk.

 Pointing to the one-on-one assistance she is receiving in developing her business plan, Christine says, “The Orange County SBDC has been a tremendous resource for me. It has helped me focus my energy on the planning necessary to grow my business. When we complete my business plan, I will be able to pursue funding that will usher in the next phase of The Spiraled Stem Floral Design. And, I am delighted to report that in the first month of 2008, my booked revenues already exceed my results of each of the last three years.”