Her Story
About Sheena
Sheena Willis founded the Orange Blossom Market Co. after working from home and seeking connections during the COVID period. What began as the Wine Fairies group and an online boutique evolved into hosting vendor markets and events for municipalities and venues throughout Central Florida. She organizes events such as the weekly farmer's market at Lakeridge Winery, events at Mission Resort and the town of Oakland, and the Modiste Market, a Regency-era-inspired gathering at Lakeside Inn in downtown Mount Dora that supports small businesses. Willis has been nominated for 40 under 40 and for Community Impact Leader by Women on the Rise. She credits her success to her go-getter mindset, willingness to try new things without fear of failure, and readiness to evaluate and adjust her path.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sheena
01What do you attribute your success to?
I am a go-getter. Nothing gets done if you don't start. I'm not afraid to fail, not afraid to try something and say, oh, that didn't work. I like to evaluate things too. I'm okay saying where I'm at now is not where I want to be, and let's make some changes.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I was given is to. meet your career where you are. It's important to keep long term goals, but not at the expense of appreciating the season you're in. Every season of life brings different opportunities and responsibilities, and none of them are detours, they're part of the journey.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Learn how to introduce yourself. Make eye contact, smile, tell people your name and what you do. It sounds simple, but some of my best opportunities came from conversations that began with confidence.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of our biggest challenges, and I think other Florida coordinators could agree, is the weather. Every event requires a back up plan, flexibility, and constant communication.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Quality is one of the values that guide both my work and my personal life. I value quality relationships, quality experiences, and quality work. I don't shy away from a lot, but I believe everything I commit to deserves care and intention.
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