Company: drink & bloom

Founder: Vanessa Dyrda

Date founded: June 6, 2025

Industry and business: Flower shop & café

What drives you? What is your motto?

“The best way to do something is to just do it.” – Amelia Earhart

I’ve always been someone who just tries things out instead of hesitating for a long time. To me, standing still feels like missed opportunities—new paths and adventures are what make life exciting. 

What is your startup about, and what makes it special?

I founded a concept store that combines my passions: flowers, coffee, matcha, and spritz drinks—all in the unique atmosphere of a flower shop with an open terrace right in the heart of the lively Dichterviertel neighborhood. There’s nothing quite like this concept in Wiesbaden yet. 

In addition to the café and floristry, I also offer floral workshops, tastings, and collaborative events, and make the venue available exclusively for special occasions.

What have been your first successes?

My biggest success was the strong launch of my café in the summer of 2025. Even in the first few weeks, many Wiesbaden-based influencers stopped by, and the feedback was consistently positive. This was quickly followed by requests for private parties, sold-out Advent wreath workshops, and most recently, a successful collaboration for International Women’s Day at Wohnzimmer Wiesbaden.

What is your professional background?

As a trained event manager, I spent many years organizing projects, coordinating teams, and working in the restaurant industry. It became increasingly clear to me that I’d rather bring my own ideas to life. My experience in events, service, and management ultimately gave me the confidence to go my own way.

What was the catalyst for you to start your own business?

Being self-employed had long been my dream. Two years ago, my life changed, and my career path came back into sharper focus. That’s when I realized I didn’t want to put my dream off any longer. 

Thanks to my father, who is a gardener, I have a love for flowers in my blood; at the same time, I worked for many years in the restaurant industry and event management. This combination gave rise to the idea for my own concept—a place where I can combine my passions and welcome people as a hostess.

Who advised you, and who are your helpers and mentors?

My family and friends have been my greatest source of support from the very beginning. Since I grew up in Wiesbaden, I was also able to draw on a strong network—from restaurateurs to shop owners who shared their experiences with me. In addition, I received guidance from business coach Nicola Hegener and the Employment Agency regarding my business plan, concept, and financial planning.

What were your first days as a founder like?

I experienced those first few days almost as if in a trance. I was incredibly excited, full of adrenaline, and didn’t yet know exactly what to expect. At the same time, I felt immense joy about what I had built. Everything was new and intense—but my optimism and the positive feedback overshadowed any uncertainty.

What was your biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge was dealing with the many permits and coordinating with government agencies—from historic preservation to public safety to the health department. Finding a suitable retail space as a founder with a new concept wasn’t easy either. 

With patience, perseverance, and a lot of initiative, I worked my way through these processes step by step.

How do you draw attention to your business? What’s your best marketing idea?

My main platform is Instagram, where I share glimpses of my café, workshops, and new ideas. I also use flyers and business cards, which I distribute in the neighborhood and at local events. But my network in Wiesbaden is especially important—a lot of attention comes from personal recommendations and word of mouth.

How did you finance the launch of your business?

I funded the startup through a combination of equity and debt financing. I was able to contribute a portion myself, and for the rest, I secured a loan through an online bank, which enabled me to finance and launch my shop.

What dream do you still want to make come true?

My dream is to establish my café as a regular meeting place and event venue in Wiesbaden—and perhaps one day expand to additional locations.

Please complete the following sentence: If I had more time, I would...

If I had more time, I would plan a lot more content for social media.

What’s your special tip: What would you recommend to founders?

I’ve learned how important it is to keep track of finances and shop wisely. Don’t buy everything in bulk—reserves and planning provide security.