Jennifer Matlack – The Women of West Chester

Jennifer Matlack – President of Matlack Florist

Years in business: Forty

A woman who has influenced you: My mother and grandmother both were strong stay-at-home moms. Well-educated, opinionated and VERY supportive

Armed with an English degree, Jennifer Matlack struggled to find the right job out of college. She tried real estate, but was unfulfilled. Driving past a closed-down potting shed of a retired flower grower, she stopped and asked to rent the place.

“I worked as a florist part-time through college,” Jennifer says. “And I was desperate because I needed a job!” She got a small-business loan, and opened on a shoestring budget.

After four years of renting, she and her husband bought the property where Matlack Florist sits now. She’s grown the business with the same skill she created floral arrangements, turning a one-woman shop into a multi-million-dollar enterprise.

“Our guiding principles of warm service and innovative beauty have never wavered,” Jennifer says. Matlack Florist offers fresh flowers, silk flowers, plants, and gourmet food and fruit baskets for all occasions. Sourcing from both local farms and growers all over the world, Jennifer still takes pleasure in bringing joy to her customers through the beauty of nature.

Today, Jennifer thinks more help is needed for budding female entrepreneurs. “Running a small business is always risky,” she says. “I’d like to see women given opportunities for small business loans or help from local investors. A mentorship program could also be helpful.”

And to the women who are just starting out or doubting their dream, Jennifer says you can make it. “Be bold, take a risk, be committed, seek advice. But most of all, work hard!”