Central Penn College Student Turns Passion for Flowers into a Thriving Small Business

On any given day near Carlisle, you might find x in her garage, gently arranging beautiful flowers into something even more colorful and radiant. What began as a simple love for flowers has grown, organically and intentionally, into a budding business rooted in education, mentorship, talent and perseverance. Her journey reflects how the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Degree at Central Penn College prepares students for success in business.

From Classroom to Real Business

Earlier this year, Olivia graduated from Central Penn College with an associate degree in Entrepreneurship and Small Business. But her diploma was not the only thing she walked away with. She left with a business that had already taken root.

The seeds for her company, Olivia’s Backyard Flowers, LLC, were officially planted in December 2025, right in the middle of her coursework. What started as a classroom assignment quickly became a real-world business, supported by mentorship and strong connections.

Under the guidance of her instructor, Mike DiVecchio, Olivia’s business plan evolved beyond theory. It became practical and actionable. When a guest speaker from the Small Business Development Center visited her class, one introduction led to another. That connection helped her meet legal experts who guided her through forming her LLC and securing an EIN.

“I wasn’t just learning about business,” Olivia reflects. “I was building one.”

Hands-On Learning in Business Education

At Central Penn College, the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Degree focuses on real-world application. Olivia’s experience shows how students gain practical skills that prepare them for careers in business.

Instead of only studying concepts, students actively build and test ideas. This approach helps them graduate with both knowledge and experience.

A Passion That Grew Over Time

Olivia’s journey into florals began years earlier at Cumberland-Perry Area Career Technical Center, where she discovered her love for horticulture. What started as arrangements for friends and family slowly grew into something bigger.

Today, she creates custom wreaths, centerpieces, and floral arrangements. Clients find her through social media, text, and word of mouth. She has already contributed floral designs to a wedding, with more opportunities ahead.

At the center of her work is her favorite flower, the sunflower. Bright and full of life, it reflects her outlook and creative style. She especially enjoys designing corsages and boutonnieres for proms and homecoming events, knowing her work becomes part of important memories.

She also finds inspiration at the Meadowbrook Sunflower Festival, where fields of sunflowers represent her belief in growth and possibility.

Growing a Business with Strong Support

When asked what made the biggest difference, Olivia points to the support she received at Central Penn College.

“This college really has my heart,” she says. “Everyone there is understanding and wants the best for you.”

At Central Penn, she found more than a business education. She found a supportive community. From one-on-one conversations with professors to resources like the Career Closet, she built confidence and developed her path forward in business.

“The teachers are all willing to help you. They truly want you to succeed,” she said.

Start Your Journey in Business

Olivia’s story shows what is possible when passion meets education. The Entrepreneurship and Small Business Degree at Central Penn College gives students the tools to succeed in business and beyond.

Her slogan says it best: “Flowers are worth a million words.”

For Olivia, those words tell a story of starting small, learning through experience, and growing a successful business from the ground up.