A rose is a rose is a rose. But is it? Not so, according to Dallas floral designer Claire Rathbun. Beyond adding beauty to any space, flowers also enhance your well-being.
“Everyone enjoys bringing an element of nature indoors. Flowers really resonate with people,” she said. “More than an affordable luxury, flowers are self-care.”
High-profile studies concur. Behavioral research conducted at Harvard, Rutgers, and Texas A&M have shown flowers can make people happier, promote feelings of compassion, and improve energy.
For Realtors, flowers add a sense of intentionality to a space.
Just ask Cathy Cole, who heads up Allie Beth Allman’s Catherine Cole Collective.
“I started incorporating Claire’s talent into my listing package a couple of years ago. Her floral designs are nothing short of breathtaking, showcasing a unique blend of creativity and artistry that harmoniously complements the diverse aesthetics of our home listings.”
Client response has been overwhelmingly positive. “Claire possesses a remarkable vision and an unparalleled ability to enhance the visual appeal of our properties. Her arrangements transcend mere decoration; they are true works of art that infuse life, charm, and character into every room,” Cole added.
Rathbun discovered her passion for floral design unexpectedly. “I was scrolling through YouTube videos and stumbled on this florist creating a beautiful arrangement out of flowers from the grocery store. I was mesmerized and thought, ‘I can do that.’”
Turns out, she could. “I enrolled in a class on Ikebana – the Japanese art of arranging flowers. It’s very precise, very angular. Everything represents a different part of nature,” Rathbun said.
She started her business the old-fashioned way: cold calling. “In my 20s, I did sales jobs. It’s cringey at first, but I have no problem just picking up the phone and calling people.”
Perseverance paid off. One client told another, who told another. Specialties include events, dinner parties, and private residential. Rathbun is also revving up for the holidays. In addition to home décor, gifting is big business.
“People adore the thoughtful touch Claire’s arrangements bring to their homes,” said Cole. “Her botanical creations instill a sense of warmth and homeliness, transforming houses into inviting homes.”
We asked. Claire answered.
Favorite flower: Right now, it’s the butterfly ranunculus. It’s so delicate and beautiful.
Design aesthetic: I like arrangements that are loose and airy; like you just picked the flowers from the garden.
Current trend: All one color. For example, a grouping of all pink tulips or peach roses.
Feelings on faux: Silk flowers have come a long way. There’s technology that makes the flowers look so real, even with imperfections. They’re great for open houses and photography.
Favorite part of the job: The actual creating.
Perks of entrepreneurship: I’m able to donate 10 percent of my profits to help the homeless student population of the Dallas Independent School District.
Dream commission: Being someone’s personal florist for their home, their events, and their gifting.
