This is part of a series of stories we’re sharing about independent workers. Since June is Pride Month, we’re recognizing members of the LGBTQIA+ community and bringing to light the unique stories and challenges they face. We spoke with Alex to learn more about her experience as an LGBTQIA+ independent worker.

Hi, Alex! Can you tell us about yourself and what kind of self-employed work you do?

I’m the owner and principal designer of Under New MGMT, a floral studio in Los Angeles, California. Underpaid and overworked, I witnessed first hand the untapped creative potential of the floral labor force. I wanted to employ and work alongside with the other powerhouses in the floral industry, and thus Under New MGMT was born.

Under New MGMT seeks to shift traditional industry power structures by exclusively hiring and collaborating with individuals from POC, women, LGBTQIA+, and immigrant communities. We also currently run a mutual aid project called The People’s Bodega, which provides nutrition and protest supplies to activists. We currently have active projects in both Los Angeles and New York and are in the process of putting together a community fridge with the help of local organizers.

Were there any unique challenges you faced in starting your business because you were a member of the LGBTQIA+ community?

A big challenge I faced was having people constantly undervalue my work. At first, I thought people low-balling us was just a part of the floral industry, but I soon came to realize that this was incredibly wrong. I learned how to say no and I’m continuing to set boundaries when it comes to clients and their requests!

How about the other side of the coin: Were there any advantages that being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community provided in starting your own business?

My entire floral business was built on our unique, queer point of view. We are able to use our unique experiences as queer artists to push boundaries and look at florals in a different way. We have been supported by our community and we’re incredibly grateful.

What advice do you have for others who want to start doing 1099 work?

Celebrate yourself. Tell your story. Show your authentic selves because there are so many people ready to listen and support you. Together, we can change the way businesses are ran—to be more fair and equitable to everyone involved.

Thanks for you sharing your story and advice with us and the rest of the Stride community, Alex!

You can see more of Under New MGMT’s work on their website and Instagram.