For more than a decade, Shavon Francis built a successful career in finance and accounting. By day, she worked in the corporate world; by night, she nurtured something deeply personal—Fleurish Chicago, a floral design business that began quietly inside her condo. What started as an after-hours creative outlet quickly grew into a vision for something bigger, but Shavon knew that passion alone would not be enough to carry her into full-time entrepreneurship.
She had ideas, talent, and drive—but what she needed was space to think strategically and guidance to help her transition from a corporate mindset to that of a business owner.
That support came when a colleague introduced her to the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, encouraging her to connect with Center Director Adrienne McFarland. From their first meeting, Shavon found what she had been missing: a trusted thought partner who could help her bring clarity to her ideas and confidence to her decisions.
Together, they worked through what it would truly take to grow Fleurish Chicago. Adrienne helped Shavon step back from the day-to-day and think intentionally about partnerships, visibility, and long-term strategy. She introduced Shavon to networks and resources she hadn’t previously known existed and helped her organize her ideas into a clear path forward. Most importantly, she created a steady, supportive space where Shavon could grow into her role as a leader.
With that guidance, Fleurish Chicago evolved. What once lived inside a condo became a brick-and-mortar flower shop in Bronzeville, serving the community through retail florals, creative workshops, and corporate experiences. The business is now a place where artistry, entrepreneurship, and community connection come together—reflecting Shavon’s original vision, fully realized.
Today, Shavon continues to build on that momentum. She is deepening partnerships, expanding her workshops, and strengthening Fleurish Chicago’s role as a creative anchor in the neighborhood.
Reflecting on her journey, Shavon shares:
“The SBDC gave me room to grow into my leadership. Adrienne supported my vision when it was still forming, and her guidance helped me move with intention and confidence.”
Shavon’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is rarely a straight line. It’s a process of balancing ambition with uncertainty—and having the right support can make all the difference. With guidance, clarity, and belief, a vision can grow far beyond where it begins.