Yellow Twist has always been a one woman show. That is not to diminish the support I receive from the amazing people working in the studio and at events, but the day to day work and the decisions are all me, Lindsay. I take responsibility for our work, our actions and our mistakes. Though I want to, I cannot separate my business from my personal life. Not many solo-entrepreneurs can. For years I have wondered why flowers matter. How I can elevate my design work to make an impact on the world? On the personal side, especially since becoming a mother, I regularly ask “Who are you? What is your identity? What will be your legacy? How can you take action against racism? Injustice? Climate Change? Food insecurity?”
Today I am taking action to carry the work I do as a private citizen over to Yellow Twist. This brand cannot attract the right clients without vocalizing my core beliefs. It is important that my clients choose me because of my design aesthetic and my values. If you do not believe Black Lives Matter then I am not your florist. If you do not believe in climate change then I’m not your florist. If you do not believe in women’s rights than I am not your florist (and also if you want flowers in mason jars, we’re probably not a good fit). It is my belief, and therefore my brand, that I must advocate for the communities I serve. I am in the business of celebrating love and life. Activism for justice is my job.
If this is too political for you, we are not your florist. Politics and policies are driven by people; therefore everything is political, including weddings and flowers. I am using my voice and this platform to stand up for justice and to celebrate the love of all people. The wedding industry needs to do a better job of showing more than just white, straight and able body couples. Love finds us all and should be celebrated for that very reason.
If this doesn’t resonate with you then I doubt you have read this far. But, if you’re still here you have a few choices. You can write off my business and wish I would just share the pretty flowers OR you can take some time to learn a bit more about these beliefs, I’m happy to share resources and have a kind conversation.
Justice begins with accountability and requires all of us commit to combating racism – individuals, community members, organizations and businesses. First we must acknowledge that there’s a problem. Next we commit to being part of the solution. This work will take all of us and it should consume us. When my work with flowers does more than share beauty I am doing good work.
The actions below are my first steps:
Yellow Twist’s profits have given me an opportunity to support causes financially as an individual. Now I am formalizing my commitment to donate 10% of Yellow Twist’s profits each year to causes that speak to my values. For 2020-2021 I will be donating to organizations that address systemic racism in education. Details will be shared on my website.
Yellow Twist employees’ starting pay has always been and will continue to be what experts report as Maine’s livable wage for an adult. All internships are paid. We support flexible schedules and will help with childcare as able.
Employees will receive resources that educate on unconscious bias and how to be anti-racist.
I am actively developing more inclusive products. What does that mean for flowers? It is proven that flowers can lift a person’s mood and bring joy. And while they cannot replace therapy and professional mental health services, they are an act of self-care. Self-care is an act of resistance, accessing joy is an act of justice. The cost of flowers creates a barrier to sharing their joy, so Yellow Twist Bouquets will be available for the self-care and joy of Black men and women in the greater Portland, ME community for no cost four times per year. Details to follow.
I will communicate with wedding industry publications demanding that they do better to represent ALL love on their platforms and in their magazines.
I still have work to do and want to thank my staff, clients, family/friends, educators, and community for helping me see opportunities for real change. What a privilege it is to know that we can keep learning, continue to be better and show up for love. My voice is not needed at the front, but my voice will stay present in my brand and my profits will be sent to those taking the lead. My work will not be perfect, but it will be ongoing. I will take actions that amplify the voices of the Black community. I will participate in breaking down the systems of oppression that I benefit from as an individual and business owner. This is not going above and beyond; this is doing what I’m supposed to do. This is Yellow Twist 365 days of the year.
Flowers can’t solve all problems, but they can be part of the work.