Open for Business: Weeds, Inc.

Weeds, Inc. owner Hollie Oprian has a bachelor’s degree in education, and a minor in agri-floriculture. (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@svnmail.com)

E-mail this story

Print this story

Comments

Address: 732 N. Galena Ave., Dixon

Phone: 815-288-3041

Web site: www.weedsdesigns.com

Main product: No matter what the occasion, flowers always seem to make it brighter. At Weeds, we boast a very diverse assortment of floral and gift items. Choose from our most popular items or describe your ideas to our floral designers and they’ll create a unique basket or arrangement just for you at no extra charge and all products 100 percent guaranteed.

We carry: Fresh flower arrangements, uniquely designed silk flower arrangements, plants, gourmet baskets, corporate gifts, custom designed wedding flowers, general gift items and decor.

Owner and manager: Hollie Schultz Oprian, 31

Educational background: Bachelor’s degree in education, minor in agri-floriculture

Family: Husband, Mark Oprian; Mable, golden retriever, aka Shop Dog

How long have you worked for the company? I started Weeds, Inc. my first year out of high school while I was becoming a certified florist at Kishwaukee College – this will be my 15th year.

What do you like best about your work? Our customers needs are of the utmost importance, and we are committed to and find great pleasure in meeting those needs. Weeds, Inc. is not your typical corner flower shop. It is the answer for those seeking floral perfection but with an edgy flair.

Our florists work one-on-one to find the inspiration in their customers and bring these imaginings to life. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service in the industry. Weeds, Inc. prides itself on its versatility and complete commitment to pleasing every customer.

What’s the craziest thing you’ve done on the job that’s worked? Many times we are faced with unique challenges before the end product is developed. You have to be creative and be able to adapt and modify the situation and/or product to fit you/your customer’s needs at that time.

What was your first job? My first job was detasseling corn for Olson’s Farm in Harmon. ... don’t ask anyone about my work ethic back then. However, my second job was working at The Main Flower Shop in Amboy, while also earning high school credits for it. That is where I discovered my passion for floral design.

Name one lesson you learned from it that you’ve been able to apply to your current work? Having been in this field for a number of years, there have been many lessons learned about the floral industry. This knowledge has all worked together to bring me to this very moment and a dream come true.

What is your dream for retirement? While that chapter in my life is quite a ways off, I hope to be healthy, enjoy time with friends and family as well as devote much of my time back to this great community through volunteer work.