Ola Suzanne Stowers is a proud daughter of Dawsonville, Georgia, a place where her values of education, community service, and hard work were deeply cultivated. Growing up in a family devoted to making a difference, her father, Keith Stowers, served as Dawson County School Superintendent, while her late sister, Beth Stowers, inspired her to live with compassion and purpose. Suzanne’s journey is a testament to how roots shape resilience and creativity.
With a professional background in operations management, specializing in inventory control, customer service, and technology, Suzanne thrived in roles that required organization and strategic thinking. However, her love for artistry and nature eventually drew her to pursue creative endeavors, finding peace and inspiration in working with flowers. Balancing the analytical with the artistic, Suzanne has built a career that reflects her multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to giving back. Passionate about causes like PurpleStride and a dedicated volunteer with an organization in the industry, Suzanne continues to inspire those around her.
Here, Suzanne reflects on her journey, sharing insights into her life, career, and the lessons learned along the way.
How has Dawsonville shaped the person you are today?
Dawsonville is my foundation. Growing up in this small, close-knit community, I learned the value of connection, hard work, and service. My dad’s role as the Dawson County School Superintendent was a constant reminder that leadership is about making meaningful contributions, not just holding a title. My late sister, Beth, taught me compassion and the importance of cherishing the people around me. Those lessons influence everything I do, from how I approach my work to how I give back to my community.
What drew you to operations management, and how did it prepare you for creative pursuits?
Operations management appealed to the organizer in me. I love creating systems that work, solving problems, and finding efficiencies. My time in this field gave me the tools to think strategically and adapt to challenges, which are invaluable skills in any endeavor. When I transitioned to working with flowers, those same skills helped me create a structured yet flexible approach to creativity. It’s about blending order with imagination, and operations gave me the confidence to do that.
Why is working with flowers such a meaningful creative outlet for you?
Flowers are pure joy. They connect us to nature and can evoke so many emotions—happiness, comfort, peace. For me, working with flowers is therapeutic. It’s a moment to slow down, get my hands dirty, and let the beauty of nature guide the process. Each arrangement feels like a story waiting to be told, and I love being part of creating something that brings people joy or comfort.
What inspires your commitment to philanthropy?
Giving back has always been a part of my life, thanks to my family. Supporting causes like PurpleStride is deeply personal because of my sister Beth, who we lost to pancreatic cancer. It’s my way of honoring her memory and helping others who are facing the same battle. Volunteering is another way I contribute—sharing knowledge and working with like-minded professionals keeps me connected to something bigger than myself. Philanthropy grounds me and reminds me of the impact we can make together.
How do you balance creativity with the practicalities of running a business?
It’s a balancing act, for sure, but one I’ve grown to love. I set aside specific times for administrative tasks—emails, inventory, planning—and protect my creative time fiercely. That’s when I experiment, design, and let ideas flow freely. The key is treating creativity as an essential part of the business, not an afterthought. At the same time, I embrace the business side because it’s what supports my ability to do what I love. It’s all connected.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career pivot into a creative field?
Don’t let fear stop you. Transitioning to a creative field can be intimidating, but it’s worth it if it aligns with your passions. My biggest advice is to leverage the skills you already have—whether that’s organization, communication, or strategic thinking—and apply them in new ways. Also, be patient with yourself. Creativity takes time to develop, and balancing it with business requires constant learning. But if it brings you joy, it’s absolutely worth pursuing.
What role does nature play in your life and work?
Nature is everything to me. It inspires my creativity, calms my mind, and reminds me of the beauty in simplicity. Working outdoors with flowers connects me to something bigger than myself—it’s grounding and uplifting at the same time. Whether I’m gardening, walking, or simply sitting in the sun, nature fuels my ideas and helps me stay centered.
What does success look like to you today?
Success has evolved for me over the years. Early on, it was about tangible achievements—promotions, recognition, financial stability. Now, it’s about fulfillment and impact. Am I creating something meaningful? Am I giving back? Am I living in a way that honors my family’s values? Success is about balance, happiness, and leaving a positive mark on the world around me.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in your work?
I stay motivated by remembering why I started. My love for flowers, my connection to nature, and my desire to make a difference keep me going. Reading and music also inspire me—they’re like fuel for my creativity. And, of course, the people I’ve met along the way, from clients to fellow volunteers, motivate me to keep growing and learning.
What’s next for you personally and professionally?
Personally, I want to continue spending time with my family and finding ways to give back to Dawsonville, the community that shaped me. Professionally, I’m excited to keep exploring new creative opportunities and refining my work. Whether it’s through art, community involvement, or business, I want to continue growing and finding ways to make an impact. The journey is ongoing, and that’s what makes it so exciting.
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