Florist Thrives on $23,000 Annually in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn
Molly Culver is a florist thriving on an annual income of $23,000 in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn. After years of managing a successful floral business, she now faces the challenges of living in one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Molly Culver’s Floral Journey
At 44, Culver transitioned her floral business, Molly Oliver Flowers, into a full-time venture. After the Covid-19 pandemic, she initially earned up to $62,000 annually, providing flowers for events and running a subscription service. However, as economic conditions worsened, clients began to cut back on non-essential spending.
Budgeting and Living Expenses
- Last year, Culver paid herself a modest salary of $23,000.
- She also withdrew about $22,000 from her savings to support her business.
This financial strain has prompted her to reassess her lifestyle. “I’ve learned that I can be happy with less,” she noted. To accommodate her newfound financial reality, Culver moved into a rental situation in Ditmas Park.
Housing Challenges in Brooklyn
After separating from her partner, Culver faced rising rental costs. Previously, she rented a small room for $40 a night. With limited options, she sought a new place to live. A friend in Ditmas Park offered her a room for $600 per month. Although higher than her previous rent, it was still reasonable for Brooklyn.
Culver shares the house with the owners and other tenants. This unique arrangement has fostered a sense of community, where they often enjoy meals together. “I’ve let go of the perfectionist idea of home and success,” she explained.
Living Arrangements and Daily Life
In her current home, Culver has access to basic amenities like a sink and stove. She spends about $100 weekly on groceries from a nearby co-op. Moreover, she often travels back to her childhood home in Connecticut to help her mother.
Culver drives a used Prius, balancing her life between the city and her mother’s house. While she occasionally considers relocating to a less costly area for her business, she recognizes the connections she has cultivated in New York.
Future Aspirations
Molly Culver aspires to grow her business to achieve an annual income of $75,000. For now, she prioritizes her passion for floristry over extravagant living. She rarely dines out or purchases new clothing. Instead, Culver focuses on sustaining meaningful relationships with friends.
“I’m just another person trying to make it work,” she said about her life as a small business owner. For others navigating the high cost of living in New York City, her story reflects the sacrifices and trade-offs many face to pursue their dreams.
Sharing Experiences in NYC
El-Balad seeks to hear from individuals across various income brackets on how they manage their lives in this expensive city. Share your insights and experiences with us.
