Success Stories
Paul and MaryBeth Wotus – Floral Artistry 30A
In early September 2026, Navy Master Chief Paul Wotus and his wife MaryBeth contacted the Florida Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) seeking guidance to start a floral and event rentals business in Bay County, Florida. Their vision, Flower Artistry 30A, will provide floral design and décor for weddings and corporate events along the scenic Highway 30A corridor, including Seaside, Carillon Beach, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Watersound, and Seacrest Beach.
Master Chief Wotus currently serves as the Command Master Chief of the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City, following an extensive Navy career with both sea and shore assignments in Norfolk, Puerto Rico, Pearl Harbor, and San Diego.
MaryBeth brings valuable experience as a professional florist, having worked in California and currently part-time at a local flower shop. Growing client demand for her designs inspired the couple to start their own business. She also collaborates with a local event planner and realtor who organizes up to 12 events annually, one each month, throughout the 30A region.
VBOC assisted the Wotus family with business formation guidance, including establishing an LLC, registering a trademark with the State of Florida, and creating a strong local identity through their chosen name, Floral Artistry 30A. Together, we discussed networking opportunities through the Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, Rotary, and the Junior Service League.
Paul and MaryBeth are self-funding their startup and have begun constructing a garage addition to store their equipment, vases, stands, arches, and awnings. VBOC also provided insurance guidance, recommending a home-based business policy and an auto business owner’s insurance rider.
With family support, MaryBeth’s daughters will help design the company website, and a clear vision for growth, Flower Artistry 30A is poised to become a vibrant veteran- and spouse-owned business contributing to the Gulf Coast’s thriving event industry.