South Florida Client: Romina Orozco-Encio
Romina Orozco-Encio is the current owner of Abbott Florist on Normandy Isle. Abbott Florist started in 1990 when Romina and her family came to Miami Beach from Argentina. Her father had previously owned and operated a flower shop in Argentina, and he used his knowledge and expertise to replicate the business in the U.S. After some time, the flower shop was handed down to Romina and she continued to operate the family-owned business. Abbott Florist has offered floral arrangements for special events, individual sales, and local hotels in Miami Beach, Brickell, and Coconut Grove for over 30 years now.
When the pandemic hit South Florida, the business closed for five weeks as all events were canceled. Unable to generate any sales, they started having trouble making ends meet. The business was also unable to purchase any additional inventory since flower suppliers across the world were also closed. Nonetheless, during that time, the City of Miami Beach was hosting food drives for the local citizens in need and during one of those events Romina found an opportunity. She was told there was a flower supplier that was hoping to get rid of their inventory. Romina contacted the supplier and was able to procure inventory and gave some of it back to the community as decorations along the long lines at the food drive. The impact of this heartfelt act was so significant that today, two years later, people still show up to Romina’s store to thank her for decorating the line with flowers and giving them such a pleasant view during that time of darkness.
During times of uncertainty, Romina sought guidance and support from Prospera. She received personalized business consulting and assistance to enhance her business bookkeeping, finances, and operations. Also, with the organization’s guidance, Romina was able to obtain a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the City of Miami Beach and a Mom & Pop Small Business Grant from Miami Beach District 5 Commissioner Eileen Higgins. With the capital obtained, Romina was able to cover rent expenses and renovate her business facade.
Furthermore, Romina is a proactive business owner who understands the importance of continuous education. In 2022, she participated and graduated from Prospera’s Small Business Solutions Technology Academy and attended several Prospera webinars. Overall, with some assistance from the City of Miami Beach and Prospera, and driven by Romina’s entrepreneurial resilience, Abbott Florist remains strong and sustainable.
Learn more about this family-operated business on their website: abbottfloristmiami.com
