I’m a New York City girl with a few titles people don’t usually expect: I’m a certified florist, a certified sommelier, a certified bartender, and I’m even certified through botanical gardens to grow vegetables organically. On MARTA, though, I usually just look like another passenger in a restaurant uniform heading to work.

What most people wouldn’t guess is that my business, Read My Tulips NYC, was born out of one of the darkest seasons of my life. After losing a job, going through a breakup, and falling into depression, I found a little light in arranging flowers and making myself a cocktail. Those simple acts gave me beauty, comfort, and something to look forward to.

I realized if it could bring me joy, maybe it could help others too. That’s how Blooms and Booze floral arranging workshop was planted. First as a way to share self-care, and then into something bigger; workshops and events where busy professionals could slow down, connect, and take care of themselves in creative, meaningful ways. Today, I’ve hosted team-building and wellness events for companies like Google, Sony Pictures, Vinson & Elkins, and Appleby.

So yes, I might just look like another commuter on the train. But behind the uniform is a woman who turned her struggles into a business that helps people bloom, one bouquet and one cocktail at a time.