Carol Ruffin

Carol’s success comes from deeply held beliefs of compassionate caring and allowing others to participate in decision-making. This leadership point of view resulted from having accepted the responsibilities of caring for a bed-ridden mother and two younger sisters as a teenager while her father worked.

“When I work with a client, my job is to allow them to be part of the process. I want my customers to know that they can entrust me to follow through and deliver.” Brides know that Carol’s thoughtful planning with them will result in a transformational experience. Business clients get the same level of care. Adaptability is a leadership trait she values. “You don’t stay in business for 42 years without learning how to embrace change. As a result, I have a different company than the one I started in my garage, providing flowers and arrangements for weddings and funerals. I now have a large workspace and several corporate clients who consider me their preferred vendor.

Daughters Nici and Nadia were Blossom’s first employees. “My husband, Chuck, built out the garage space and encouraged me to follow my passion. He is a steady force and an integral part of my business growth.” Today, Blossom’s has a large workspace. Several corporate clients, nonprofits, and local banks consider her their preferred vendor.

Carol says Vivian Green was an early mentor who enabled her to soar as a businesswoman. “Ms. Green led by example; she was generous and invested in my dream to own a flower shop. She told me she would pay for my education as long as I didn’t waste her money. I remember her generosity. She gave me an opportunity to learn and grow. If there is one leadership trait I learned from her, it’s to make a way for others to be successful.”

A floral academy is next on her list of business goals. “I want to take everything I’ve learned about business success and teach others how to do something they love while making a difference for others.”