In a world with hundreds to thousands of flower shops in the floral industry, we often notice big names and chain stores. Lorraine Duran’s small business, Duraflores, offers more than just beautiful arrangements of real and satin ribbon flowers but Duran focuses on creating a personalized experience for each customer.
Duran is a Junior at West High School and started her business in September of 2023. She has always been creative and likes flowers so she decided to cross those paths. The moment that Duran began her craft was when she was struggling to find a gift for her friend, so she offered her friend flowers. Since then, Duran has flourished and continued to grow her business.
Although starting a business begins with creativity. it’s the struggle, dream and passion that keeps it going. Duran said when she first started it was difficult for her to keep going with her dream as there were not many orders coming in, which killed her drive. “I had a verse which is ‘2 Chronicles 15:7’ (Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded) that kept me going,” she shares. Even in the face of struggle, Duran always managed to keep moving forward.
Duran’s favorite part of her business is that it allows her to express her creativity as well as work with all types of flowers. Other than the creativity and the work that comes with running a small business, Duran enjoys the part of the business that means connecting with people and customers. “I really like seeing people make their loved ones happy with something I make!” said Duran. She adds that it’s all about balance and time. Duran says that she believes everything has its time and she doesn’t let herself procrastinate because allowing herself to not let things lay on the back burner whether that be for school or with her business is what allows her to get things done.
Duran said, “Honestly only God knows my future and I hope to fulfill it.” She hopes to continue her future in college, pursue her florist career, and expand her business. Duran sheds light on some advice that keeps her going, “I just think that if you want to achieve something that passion won’t fail you and it’s okay to go through trials of errors and success!” Another thing that keeps Duran going is that she’s only in charge of driving for her destiny and says, “Man above will take me down the right path.”
Duraflores has been in business for a little over a year and has continued to grow. Duran’s passion for floristry remains at the heart of every arrangement. Whether it’s crafting the perfect bouquet for a friend or family, Duran’s dedication to her craft shines through in every petal. Recently providing giveaways and fresh flower arrangements.
