Middlebury Floral & Gifts, Middlebury, Vermont

Carolee came to VtSBDC as she was considering purchasing a downtown Middlebury business from the owner.  Carolee and Sarah Kearns, VtSBDC consultant looked at the pros and cons of buying an existing versus starting a business, including the financial analysis and the marketing aspects of starting from scratch.  Ultimately, Carolee concluded that she wanted to start her own business.

Carolee opened Middlebury Floral & Gifts in January 2011.  The company "offers FTD, custom gift baskets, a distinct selection of cut flowers and arrangements, local, and specialty foods, Lake Champlain Chocolates, green and flowering plants, balloons for all occasions, hand-made soaps, Middlebury t-shirts, sweatshirts, and sweatpants, as well as home decor.  We also offer delivery throughout Addison County & Beyond!" 

In Carolee's own words - “Working closely with Sarah at the SBDC was the additional confidence booster I needed to open my own flower shop. Although she works for the success of all businesses in the area she was able to let me work through the pros and cons of buying something pre-existing or starting my own. The SBDC was a key player in the decision to open Middlebury Floral and Gifts. Thank you, Sarah”