Hi All! Maddy here- kicking of the Centerpeaces blog!

Maddy instructing the Garden Gala last summer!

Hi everyone! I’m Maddy, the founder of Centerpeaces, and I’m so excited to start this blog to share my entrepreneurial journey and fuel my passion for business!

Back in 2019, when I started Centerpeaces, I had no idea what I was doing. I had always loved being creative, designing decorations for my dad’s work parties and family holidays. But at the time, I had no clear career direction—I had only ever babysat, and for some reason, I thought I wanted to be an orthodontist (I honestly have no idea why).

What I did know was that I had an eye for design. When my family suggested I turn my centerpiece-making hobby into a business, something clicked. I had grown up watching my dad build his own business, and I was fascinated by YouTubers who had started their own companies—this was before influencers were a thing. Without realizing it, I had already started my entrepreneurial journey just by learning from them.

That Easter day, my family’s encouragement lit a spark in me. By that night, I had launched my Instagram page for Centerpeaces. I remember the excitement so vividly.

The Hustle Begins

In high school, I ran Centerpeaces full-time. I did everything from wrapped floral arrangements and large artificial event centerpieces to holiday decor and prom corsages. I’d be up until 3 AM the night before prom making corsages, or racing from track practice to set up 25 centerpieces for a fundraiser. It was a hustle, but I loved every second of it.

Now that I’m in college in Minnesota, my business has taken a part-time role, but my passion for it never fades. I constantly find myself craving the creative process—picking out flowers, designing arrangements, and planning events. (Unfortunately, college living and floral design don’t exactly mix… the amount of storage my floral supplies require is no joke.)

So here I am, finding a new way to fuel my entrepreneurial drive—this time, without the power of petals.

Where I Am Now

The ladies in my scholarship program and I!

I’m currently in my third year studying entrepreneurship and marketing at the University of St. Thomas, and it has completely ignited my entrepreneurial fire. From coursework and guest speakers to interactive workshops and pitch competitions, I’ve been soaking up every opportunity to grow as a business owner. I feel so lucky to be at a school that fosters my entrepreneurial spirit, and I want to share everything I’m learning with you!

Follow Along!

This blog will be my space to geek out on all things events, startups, and motivation. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative, or just someone who loves following a passion, I’d love for you to join me on this journey!