From Florist to Lightweight Living Concept Founder with Chikae Howland

#46 - Founder of Hikarui, Chikae Howland shares her small business journey. After working as a florist, she created her concept of Lightweight Living, Hikarui, which was born out of her own need to find ways to improve her lifestyle and overall well-being.As a child, she was always creative and knew that she wanted to run her own business. In 2012, after graduating from university, she did a floristry course and set up a floristry business called Okishima & Simmonds (O&S), with her friend Jessica Simmonds. From the very start, they invested in beautiful branding and photo-shoots. They specialised in Floral Creative Styling and created designs for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and London Fashion Week. Several years later,  Chikae decided to take a three month road trip to Japan and America. She attended workshops with Beth Kirby from Local Milk, Sarah Winward, Sinclair & Moore and Ginny Au. On her return to the UK, a decision was made to no longer continue O&S.Chikae's passion for photography grew, not only digital but also film. After spending time in Japan in 2017, she started to create the concept of Hikarui and developed it further when she returned to the UK. Then during the lockdown in 2020, she taught herself how to code and created her own website, including a concept store. Chikae shares a typical day in her life, including her morning routine, weekly routine and tools she uses. She talks about being highly sensitive and her why, before discussing her plans for the future. Listening to this episode, you'll hear how passionate Chikae is about well-being and self-care. At the end of the podcast, you'll discover her practical tips, which I'm sure you'll find very inspiring. Show notes are available on the My Small Business & Me website: https://mysmallbusinessandme.com/episode46

Om Podcasten

Are you a budding entrepreneur looking for inspiration to start your very first business? Or do feel that your small business is in need of a little va-va-voom? Then this podcast is essential listening. It has two elements - on the one hand your SMALL BUSINESS and on the other, YOU. Firstly, your SMALL BUSINESS. Host Rona Wheeldon from Flowerona speaks to entrepreneurs who share insights into what it takes to run a successful, sustainable and profitable business. You’ll hear how their companies have grown from ideas to reality, the challenges encountered along the way and lessons learned.Industry experts in web design, branding, marketing, photography, social media and coaching also providing insights into how to maximise your potential and build your small business, making sure that you have the essential knowledge and tools you need to grow. Secondly, YOU, the owner. Rona speaks to specialists who can help you, both mentally and physically - from fear, confidence and time management to personal styling advice, meditation and aromatherapy - you’ll gain an insight into how to prioritise your well-being. There’s so much that goes into a successful, happy entrepreneur. And listening to this podcast will ensure that you’ve got all the bases covered, when it comes to both your small business and you. So, hit subscribe, settle down and be inspired…!