Case Study: Élan Flowers
“Small business owners wear a lot of hats—and healthcare administrator is one of the hardest to fit”
—Patrick Hall, owner of Élan Flowers in Manhattan
At a glance
Challenge
Managing the cost and complexity of providing health insurance while supporting employee needs.
Approach
Evaluated multiple coverage models, worked with brokers and a PEO, and reviewed options annually.
Key considerations
Cost, provider networks, employee feedback, and long-term affordability.
Outcome
Continued providing benefits while balancing business sustainability and talent retention.
Business snapshot
Élan Flowers
Floral & Event Design Studio
Location
New York, NY
Business size
20+ Employees
Primary challenge
Balancing employee health benefits with the cost and complexity of providing coverage.
How Patrick evaluated his health coverage options
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Started with traditional group coverage
We began with a standard group health plan through a local broker. It was familiar, but the premiums increased every year—sometimes by double digits. As a small business, that volatility was tough to absorb.
Five steps to choosing the right health insurance for your business -
Evaluated alternative funding approaches
After a few years, we moved to a Professional Employer Organization (PEO). The PEO simplified payroll and compliance, gave us access to larger-group rates, and provided HR support. While there were trade-offs, including narrower provider networks and less flexibility in plan design, it offered resources and buying power we couldn’t access on our own.
Explore funding options -
Considered plan design tradeoffs
Access to providers, network structure, plan flexibility, and overall cost all factored into the decision-making process. In 2026, our premiums still rose about 17%.
Compare health plan options -
Reviewed coverage annually
Each year, I compare renewal rates and plan options with my broker and the PEO. I look at total cost, network access, and what our employees actually use. I also ask employees for feedback—what’s working, what’s not.
Annual health insurance planning resources
Key takeaways
- Review health coverage options each year.
- Build flexibility into your budget to prepare for rising costs.
- Ask employees what benefits matter most.
- Compare multiple coverage approaches before making a decision.
- Use trusted brokers, advisors, or PEOs to help navigate choices.
Patrick’s advice for other small business owners
Start simple, then build
Begin with a basic plan. Don’t overcomplicate it. As your business grows, add options like dental, vision, or retirement plans.
Get employee input
Survey your team about what benefits matter most. Sometimes a slightly higher deductible is okay if it means keeping premiums affordable.
Budget for volatility
Healthcare costs will fluctuate. Build flexibility into your budget and plan for increases.
Use a Broker or PEO—but stay involved
A good broker or PEO can help with compliance and administration, but you still need to understand the details. Ask questions about networks, costs, and renewal trends.
Review annually
Don’t set it and forget it. Markets change, and so do your employees’ needs.
Looking ahead
Patrick’s experience highlights the importance of comparing options, seeking expert guidance, and reviewing coverage decisions regularly. Explore additional tools and resources to help evaluate health insurance options for your own business.
