12-year-old’s blooming business brings joy to nursing home

People

Oct 21

With the help of Alice Hatch Floral and Zeeland-based Joy 99.3 FM, a 12-year-old entrepreneur has brought joy to the residents and staff at Hudsonville’s Sheldon Meadows nursing home.

The Joy Bus, run by local radio station Joy 99.3 FM, travels around West Michigan with a mission to spread happiness. It was launched during the pandemic to support the community when people needed it most, like those who are going through health challenges or home emergencies, or simply giving out free ice cream at parks during the summer.

12-year-old Taya's love for flowers and baking inspired her to start her own business, Petal & Crumb.

"I started helping Ms. Renae at Alice Hatch Floral. She inspired me to work with flowers, and then I also had the idea to make baked goods. I love to bake. I bake a lot, like cookies and brownies for my family and friends," Taya said.

With guidance from Renae and the help of local flower growers, Taya and her friend Evie created 80 floral arrangements for residents along with cookies and brownies for staff members, which they personally delivered to residents with the help of the Joy Bus.

"Getting the chance to support and join Taya on this joy mission was a blast. Seeing the smiles on the faces of those who received the flowers was priceless," said a Joy Bus spokesperson. "It was also amazing to see how Alice Hatch Floral supported Taya's dream. The goal of the Joy Bus is that stories like Taya's will inspire others to create their own joy missions."

Renae Buning, owner of Alice Hatch Floral, expressed her pride in Taya's growth.

"Taya has been assisting with my floral business for the last few months and I've enjoyed getting to know her better and witness her confidence with floral design grow," said Buning. "I would encourage other adults to welcome the younger generations into their work as it enriches your profession and helps maintain perspective when you see your business through the eyes of a child."

Looking ahead, Taya plans to expand her flower garden and offer more baked goods through Petal & Crumb.