Meet Caitlan McMullen | Owner and maker-Flower + Flame

We had the good fortune of connecting with Caitlan McMullen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caitlan, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Flower and Flame began as a quarantine hobby. During the summer of 2020, I was working for a Kombucha company while making candles and clay jewelry on the side. Sadly, in August 2020 my sister became very ill with stage 4 cancer and it was very important that I became much more present with my family during that time. Because I needed more flexibility with my schedule during my sister’s battle, I decided to leave my regular job and pursue Flower and Flame full time. After my sister passed in January 2021 I was given the opportunity to go back to my regular job, but ultimately decided that having flexibility and being able to spend more time with the people I love was what was most important to me. And I have never looked back!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Interestingly enough, when I first began making jewelry I knew absolutely nothing about it. All I knew was that I had a passion for it and I wanted to begin pursuing that passion. I ordered some supplies and the rest is history!

I am a self-taught clay artist and jewelry maker, and that is something I am very proud of. Getting here was certainly not easy and I thought of giving up almost every day of this journey. I was able to overcome the challenges of starting this small business not only with the support of my family and friends but also because I am truly dedicated to seeing this dream all the way through.

The most important thing I have learned is that anything is possible if you have the passion and drive. If you want something, go out and get it! Don’t ever let the fear of failing hold you back from pursuing your dreams. I always try and remind myself there is no such thing as failure, there is only success and lessons. If you don’t jump, you will never find out how amazing it feels!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would definitely go to all the local farmers markets! I love to support small, local businesses and the San Diego farmer’s markets have so many amazing farmers, cooks, artists, and creatives to meet and show love to! The food at farmers markets is always the BEST!! Next, I would go to the beach. Going to the beach with my family was such a huge part of my childhood and such an important part of San Diego to experience. The third thing on my itinerary would be to walk around Balboa Park and Liberty Station. Just getting outside to explore is good for the soul!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family and friends have been so supportive during my small business journey. From coming to all my events, and spreading the word about Flower + Flame, as well as being some of my best customers-I am so grateful for their love and support.

My partner Josh-without whom none of this would be possible and I never would have taken the leap to pursue this dream. He has always given me his full support and continues to remind me that what’s most important in life is to enjoy it to the fullest and to do what you love. Josh has been there through every up, down, and learning curve of Flower and Flame and I am so appreciative of his support, encouragement, and guidance.

And of course-my sister Sarah. I miss her every day, but she is still such a strong force in my life.

Website: www.shopflowerandflame.com

Instagram: @shopflowerandflame