February 28, 2018

Meet Amra Kolasinac of Scent & Violet in West Houston, 12811 Westheimer Road, 77077

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amra Kolasinac.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Amra. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have always had a love of flowers and plants. My experience with the flower industry began in college when I worked at my aunt’s flower shop. It was during this time that the idea to own shop was planted. Over the years the desire grew, and I began saving for my own shop while working in the marketing department of a non-profit group. About 10 years ago I quit my non-profit job and started working at floral shops in the Houston area learning the trade and taking floral design classes.
My dream became a reality in May 2014 when Scent & Violet opened for business.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I have noticed through the years that it is difficult to attract new, qualified floral designers to the industry. Many designers have been in the business for years and are moving on in their life. We need new floral designers to take their places.
Also, as an independent floral shop it is challenging competing online with national flower marketing corporations. While being small and local business has its numerous advantages in terms of quality and customer service, one of our biggest disadvantages is lack of marketing.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Scent & Violet – what should we know?
We specialize in everyday floral design and everyday occasions. Our design style is constantly evolving and morphing. I have always believed that style should be dynamic. You don’t see fashion designers creating same dress over and over again? Our style is mostly based on European garden design with a modern twist. And because we are so uniquely situated between the Energy Corridor and Westchase, we enjoy serving our corporate clients with beautiful displays for their offices and special events.
What we are most proud of is having wonderfully loyal customers. Majority of our work is repeat business, and it feels great being able to develop relationship with people over the years.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Never go into anything alone. I would never have made it here without amazing help from my friends. I had luck to be mentored by some of the best designers and business leaders in this industry. Our friends and our vendors do a better job promoting Scent & Violet across Houston than we ever will, ourselves. We have floral associations on both local, state and national level that play a major role in our business life and educational development. I feel pretty lucky that with a touch of the button I can have access to my friends and mentors who can always help.

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