Blooming Business: Ashton Chandler Cultivates a Floral Future
By: Hannah Chatterton
Ashton Chandler & Mary Mendenhall
The picturesque town of Bushnell, nestled in the heart of the Forgottonia region, has witnessed its local florist make a heartwarming transition between generations. After decades of dedicated service, Mary Mendenhall, the beloved owner of The Flower Junction, has passed the torch to a young and passionate entrepreneur, Ashton Chandler. This change marks not only a new chapter for the business but also a promising future for the community.
Ashton Chandler, a recent graduate from Iowa State, has always had a deep-seated love for flowers. “Since I could remember, I was always picking flowers from my mother’s flower beds,” Ashton reminisces. Her passion for horticulture was reignited during her college years when she became actively involved in a horticulture club. Working at a flower shop during college further cemented her aspirations to pursue a career in floristry.
Her journey into establishing Chandler’s Florals and Events has been a whirlwind of activity. From renovating to navigating new arrangements, Ashton has enthusiastically embraced every challenge. “The journey thus far has been very busy with renovations, weddings, and lots of everyday arrangements! I’ve loved getting to meet so many members of this community. Everyone has been so welcoming,” Ashton shared.
Running a florist business is no small feat, and each day brings new tasks and opportunities. Ashton describes a typical day at Chandler’s Florals and Events as dynamic and ever-changing. “The neat thing about this business is that every day is different, just like every arrangement is different. Planning ahead is key. Knowing what I need to accomplish at the beginning of each day,” she explains. This adaptability and proactive approach are crucial to keeping the business running smoothly.
Like any new business owner, Ashton has faced her share of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles has been managing inventory, especially during the unpredictable summer months. “Figuring out how many flowers to order is tricky. The summer is tricky knowing what and how much to keep in stock. I’ve been ordering as I go so I can consistently have the freshest blooms available,” Ashton notes. Her strategy of ordering on-the-go ensures that her customers receive the freshest and most vibrant flowers.
Ashton’s appreciation for the area drove her decision to invest in Bushnell and the larger Forgottonia area. “Bushnell and the surrounding Forgottonia communities are close-knit communities who have done a good job of supporting their small businesses. I’m glad I can have the opportunity to give back to these communities and offer my services”. Her commitment to the community is evident in her dedication to providing top-notch floral services and building lasting relationships with her customers.
The joy of seeing her customers’ reactions to their floral arrangements is one of Ashton’s greatest rewards. “It never gets old seeing the excitement on customers’ faces when receiving their arrangements,” she said with a smile. Looking to the future, Ashton hopes to expand her business further by designing more wedding florals. She is already booking for weddings and events in 2025. There is a bright and busy future for Chandler’s Florals and Events.
Mary Mendenhall’s Legacy
Mary Mendenhall, the former owner of The Flower Junction, has left an indelible mark on the Bushnell community. She officially passed the torch to Ashton on May 30, ending a remarkable career that began in the late 1970s. Mary started at the Bushnell Greenhouses, moved on to work at a shop in Macomb, and eventually returned to Bushnell. In 1985, she seized the opportunity to buy the business, transforming it into The Flower Junction.
Reflecting on her decision to retire, Mary admits it was bittersweet. “While I loved my vocation, especially the years of interacting with my customers, it was becoming more difficult to keep up with the physical demands of the work. And I felt it was time for an infusion of new energy and new ideas to keep the business relevant. I’m excited to see the changes that will be made!” Her excitement for the future of the business under Ashton’s leadership is palpable.
Mary’s transition to retirement was sudden, but she is embracing it with open arms. “I am still adjusting to the major change in lifestyle, but I am loving it! Though I have a lengthy ‘project’ list, if I’m feeling lazy I can spend a day curled on the couch with a book without remorse!”
A Flourishing Future
The handover from Mary Mendenhall to Ashton Chandler represents more than just a business transaction; it is the transition of a legacy to a new generation that is ready to invest fresh energy and ideas into a beloved local establishment. Ashton’s dedication to her craft, her community, and her customers ensures that Chandlers Florals and Events will carry Mendenhalls legacy, bringing beauty and joy to Bushnell and beyond.
