Candy Bouquet News Room
Franchisee News
Franchisee of the Month: June 2008
Candy Bouquet Store 2580 - Mary De Le Torre
Store Front
Long Beach, CA
In business: 5 years
I decided to purchase my franchise after the company I worked for downsized and my position of 26 years was eliminated. My dream had always been to be my own boss and this gave me the opportunity to do just that.
I did my research on small businesses and franchises and found Candy Bouquet. I went to all the SBA classes and seminars to learn all I could before going forward. I went full force and didn’t look back. It was scary at first, but I knew this is what I wanted to do.
My store opened June 7, 2004 and I was overjoyed and knew I had made the right decision. I was in high Heaven until three months later when I lost my sister, Linda. It was the most difficult time of my life. With the pain and grief, it took all I had to continue. Thanks to my family and my little store that I had to tend to every day, in time, I got through this. My dear sister was my first customer and she gave the store’s first $1.00 bill, which is framed and hanging right behind me everyday. I know my sister would be proud and not want me to give up.
Today I’m ready to renew my contract with Candy Bouquet and happy to continue my journey in life. I love coming into my store every day wondering what kind of challenge I’ll have. Everyday is an experience with the people commenting how beautiful the bouquets are and how my store makes them feel happy. I meet people from all over the world because I’m in a center that’s across from a convention center.
I’m looking forward to many more years with CBI and thanks to everyone with Corporate and the Distribution Center for all their assistance throughout the years.