ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Kimberly Spead '04

The saying "bloom where you are planted" may have ideated from the journey of Kimberly Klappert Spead '04. The fine art/design graduate moved away from the area 17 years ago, seeking adventure in the mountain west. Today, the small business owner and entrepreneur runs a trendy full-service flower business, complete with a show-stopping mobile flower truck.

Can you tell us about your career path since graduating from WC? 

After graduation, I worked in Hillside Residence Hall as a Resident Director for two years with an amazing resident assistant team. My husband Brian and I decided to make a move to the Denver, Colorado area, mostly for the sense of adventure. I built up my freelance graphic design and photography business and also worked as a Creative Director for a non-profit for 10 years. I stepped down from my creative director position after my third child and concentrated on my freelance work. 

What is the inspiration behind your floral design shop Wild + Blume?

If you’ve ever had a chance to visit Castle Rock, Colorado, you’re one of the lucky few to experience one of the cutest, historic towns with a thriving small business culture. Over the last few years, the town has really begun to grow in both popularity and creative small businesses. Before the pandemic, I began thinking about ways to be a part of this growth. I wanted to find a way to connect locally-farmed flowers to our community as well as creating a gathering place using a mobile format. The concept of a flower truck fit our town’s vibe perfectly. Then, as many stories go, the pandemic hit. I spent time creating my business model and looking for the perfect vehicle to fit my flower truck needs. I landed an amazing 1967 Volkswagen Transporter which has been a focal point of Wild + Blume. 

What kind of products/services does W+B offer in the winter off-season?  

After my first year concentrating on events with the flower truck, I expanded into a small brick and mortar shop space within a multi-small business concept (including a bookshop, restaurants and a bar). Here, I provide flowers, plants and workshops year-round and have extended the community gathering space while the flower truck is in the off-season. Starting with a small shop, I now run a full-service floral business concentrating on events and workshops.

Where did you come up with the Wild + Blume name?

The name Wild & Blume speaks to two different things. First, a reminder to observe the wild in nature. Not everything has to be store bought and curated to be beautiful. Second, I used the German spelling, ‘blume,’ to honor that part of my heritage (it also tied in well with the VW). 

What were some experiences at Westminster that helped shape your journey? 

As a Fine Art major, I worked a lot with Peggy Cox and Kathy Koop. I don’t think there were two more different personalities in any other faculty department at Westminster! The way they both approached art and creativity may have been different, but they pointed attention to creative space for different types of thinkers. I appreciate that now when I work with someone who approaches an idea differently than I do. Another professor who I appreciate is Jeff Bersett. I took several Spanish classes with him and while language was definitely not my strong suit, he made learning approachable and fun. This way of teaching has helped me enter challenging spaces with a different mindset both in business and life. As a side note: knowing a bit of Spanish has definitely benefited me living in Colorado. My experience being a part of the Res Life team both as a student and a graduate has had a big impact on who I am and how I engage with people. As a small business owner, I use some of the experiences built upon at Westminster and I pull from my liberal arts education to navigate SMB challenges. There is definitely a learning curve and an educational piece that I’ve had to communicate in business inquiries. No matter what you are selling, it is important to understand your value and what you bring to the table. Not everyone will like or understand your product and pricing, and that is actually a good thing. Don’t undersell yourself just to get business. Be confident in what you offer, and your clients will see the value. 

What do you do in your free time?

What’s that? Just kidding. My family spends a lot of time outdoors because the Colorado stereotype is definitely true. I love concerts at Red Rocks, and the many hiking options. I only have one 14er (a mountain peak with an elevation of at least 14,000 ft.) at Quandary Peak under my belt but I hope to add to that number. I also travel whenever I have the opportunity and have visited some amazing places like Singapore and Ukraine. Otherwise, I’m drinking coffee, watching design shows and listening to Ray Lamontagne.

Where can we find more about W+B?

My business is a true, local small business, so if you’re ever in the area, stop by and create a bouquet at the truck in Castle Rock, CO, or visit us online at wildandblume.com. If you’re visiting during the winter off-season, stop by the shop and say hi! 

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