Wandering around her grandmother's flourishing garden as a young girl, she never imagined it would lead to a life long love affair with botanicals, let alone her chosen career path.
Fast forward a few years to her time in the hospitality industry. Shaye quickly identified a lack of unique styling at the events she was catering for, so decided to start her own floral design and prop hire business. On my Hand was born in 2011, styling private and corporate events. On My Hand has opened up opportunities to diversify and collaborate on projects such as workshops and styled magazine shoots.
Over time, Shaye has seen the need to grow her team as the demand for her business increases, especially during busier times of the year when things can get a little frantic.
'Over the course of the year, I can be liaising with as many as 40 girls at any one time about weddings, while also working on a number of corporate events, so I often need to employ a little extra help. Because I'm a freelance stylist as well as running the business, I'm moving from a self-employment role to a managerial director role depending on the time of year. With that comes a slight change when introducing new staff members and getting to know them and how they work. I find I have to be a little less relaxed and make sure that everything I do sets a positive example.'
Much of On My Hand's business has previously been generated through word of mouth but Shaye also turns to social media, using this extensively to promote and develop brand awareness.
'This industry bodes very well with social media because it's so visual and it has been an incredibly useful tool for the business. I use a range of mediums which are beneficial in different ways and each has its own community that I've cultivated.'
'I analyse my Facebook data now and then to make sure I'm on the right track and I also believe it's crucial to spend a little money with Facebook so that you can broadcast your message effectively.'
Shaye has run On My Hand successfully and single-handedly for over four years, but recently sought advice from a secondary business mentor. 'I've always had a mentor but recently took on another due to my increased workload and the simple fact that this is my first business and I don't know everything!'
'There is always something to learn about business and I love to talk about it, not just mine but anyone's. As the business grows from strength to strength, with that comes a new way of managing and because I'm learning as I go it's great to have a seasoned business owner to bounce ideas off and steer me in the right direction.'
If you've ever been to an On My Hand event, it's likely you won't see them. But you'll know they've been there. Their silent presence is evident, accenting and highlighting the moment to take it from ordinary to extraordinary.
Behind the scenes, Shaye is also taking steps to grow her business and manage that growth.