Suzanne Stowers Barrett, born and raised in Dawson County, Georgia, is the co-founder of Stowers’ Flowers, a thriving floral business she launched with her nephew in 2024. Suzanne’s early years were shaped by a close-knit family and a community-driven upbringing. Her father, Keith Stowers, served as Dawson County’s School Superintendent, instilling in her a deep sense of service and resilience. Prior to her entrepreneurial journey, Suzanne spent over a decade excelling in the diemaking and diecutting industry, where she rose to leadership positions in operations and sales. Today, she channels her business acumen and creative passion into Stowers’ Flowers, blending beauty and community impact through her work. Suzanne remains deeply committed to giving back, supporting causes such as PurpleStride for pancreatic cancer research, while finding balance in her life through gardening, reading, and music.
What does success mean to you, personally and professionally?
To me, success is about creating something that brings joy and meaning—not just to my own life, but to the lives of others. Personally, it’s about finding balance: being present for my family, finding time for my garden, and cultivating relationships that matter. Professionally, success is seeing the happiness our floral arrangements bring to our clients. It’s about knowing that Stowers’ Flowers isn’t just a business—it’s a part of people’s stories. Whether we’re crafting a wedding bouquet or donating flowers to a community event, success is measured in the connections we create and the impact we make.
How did your upbringing in Dawson County shape your view of success?
Growing up in Dawson County taught me that success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about contributing to the community and uplifting those around you. My father, Keith Stowers, dedicated his career to education, and I saw firsthand how much of a difference one person could make. My family’s values of hard work, kindness, and service have always been a guiding light for me. Even as I pursued my career in diemaking and now as a floral entrepreneur, those lessons from my hometown remind me to stay grounded and focused on what truly matters.
What inspired you to transition from diemaking to the floral industry?
After more than a decade in diemaking and diecutting, I realized I wanted to do something that combined my professional expertise with my personal passion. Flowers have always been a source of joy and creativity for me, and I wanted to share that with others. My experience in operations, sales, and relationship-building gave me the confidence to take the leap. When my nephew and I started talking about working together, the idea of Stowers’ Flowers just clicked. It felt like the perfect way to channel my skills into something beautiful, meaningful, and deeply personal.
How do flowers embody the idea of success for you?
Flowers are a universal symbol of growth, beauty, and resilience—all qualities I associate with success. They remind us to celebrate life’s moments, both big and small. A single bloom can convey love, hope, or comfort, and that’s incredibly powerful. At Stowers’ Flowers, we see every arrangement as a chance to make someone’s day a little brighter. Success, for me, is knowing that the work we do has a positive impact, whether it’s bringing joy to a client’s special day or supporting a cause close to my heart.
What role does community play in your definition of success?
Community is at the heart of everything I do. Dawson County shaped me into the person I am today, so it’s important to me to give back. Whether it’s through volunteering for PurpleStride or donating flowers to local events, I see my business as an extension of my commitment to service. Success isn’t just about growing Stowers’ Flowers; it’s about using that growth to uplift the people and causes that matter most. I truly believe that when you invest in your community, the returns are immeasurable.
What’s been the most rewarding part of running Stowers’ Flowers?
The most rewarding part has been seeing the joy our arrangements bring to people. There’s nothing quite like delivering a bouquet and watching someone’s face light up. It reminds me that flowers are so much more than just decorations—they’re expressions of love, celebration, and even healing. On a deeper level, working with my nephew has been incredibly fulfilling. Building this business together has strengthened our bond and created a legacy that reflects our shared values and passions.
How do you balance your personal life with your professional ambitions?
Balance is something I’ve learned to prioritize over the years. Running a business can be all-consuming, but I make it a point to carve out time for the things that ground me—my garden, a good book, or simply enjoying music. I’ve also learned that asking for help and delegating is essential. My nephew and I work as a team, and that partnership allows me to focus on both my personal life and my professional goals without feeling overwhelmed.
What advice would you give to someone dreaming of starting their own business?
Start with something you’re passionate about, and don’t be afraid to take the leap. I think the biggest hurdle for many people is fear of the unknown. But if you trust your skills and lean into what brings you joy, you’ll find your way. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision, and never underestimate the importance of hard work and resilience. Most importantly, remember that success isn’t just about profit—it’s about creating something meaningful and making a positive impact.
What’s next for Stowers’ Flowers and for you?
I’m excited to see how we can continue to grow Stowers’ Flowers while staying true to our values. We’re looking into expanding our community outreach and exploring new ways to bring joy through our arrangements. Personally, I want to keep finding balance and cultivating joy in my own life, whether it’s through my hobbies, family time, or new creative projects. Success isn’t a destination—it’s an ongoing journey, and I’m grateful for every step of the way.
For Suzanne Stowers Barrett, success is about blending passion with purpose, creating beauty, and staying connected to her roots. Through her work with Stowers’ Flowers and her commitment to community, she continues to inspire others with her resilience, generosity, and unwavering dedication to cultivating joy.