Floral Fortitude: Flower Scent-R celebrates 25 yrs in business

Small business owner Gina Clifton knew from a very early age that she would run a retail business. She recalls pulling all the clothes out of her closet to play store or count inventory.

If you would have asked her back then about her love for flowers, she would have likely told you that she loves the flowers that grew in Great-Grandma Ida Jasman's garden. But young Gina just hadn't put the idea of flowers into a shop yet. That revelation would come years later, when Gina was in college.

After graduating from New Rockford High School in 1993, Gina enrolled in business classes at UND Lake Region. She wanted to stick around town to open her own business, but it wasn't clear what that business might be until the Flower Hut went up for sale.

Pursuing a second degree in floral design online gave Gina the edge she needed to open a flower shop and gave her a huge advantage when it came to terminology. It took going to a lot of flower shows to learn the techniques that would carry Gina through. Mentors who had experience in the field proved invaluable in helping her apply the knowledge. Gina fondly recalls endlessly wiring and taping flowers for delicate prom corsages and matching boutonnieres. She notes that it is a skill that although perfected, is often replaced with more modern techniques such as glues and adhesives.

It's good to have a variety of skills at hand as a florist. While Valentine's Day remains the busiest day in the world of flowers, Mother's Day, Prom and Homecoming are close behind. Funerals and weddings demand some of the greatest attention.

The balance between business and family life helps when everyone works together. Gina says there have been plenty of late nights and weekend hours, but when things get busy at the Flower Scent-R, Gina looks to her family to pitch in. Mom, sister and auntie are always willing to help out at the register. Dad even helps with deliveries. Gina's children, Cassidy and Dawson, even make their mark in the shop from time to time.

Since Gina bought what used to be the Flower Hut and turned it into the Flower Scent-R, she has been learning on the job. When asked some of the valuable lessons that she might share with up and coming small business owners, Gina did not disappoint.

• Reign in your excitement, especially early on. It is far too easy to over-order supplies.

• Keep good records. You'll want to look back to see your orders over the years.

• Never second guess your abilities. It takes an awful lot of work to believe in yourself.

• Take the time and effort to complete the maintenance. It always pays off.

Drop into Flower Scent-R or call them at (701) 947-5158 to request an order. Right now, they have holiday theme centerpieces and bouquets that are sure to add color to your dining room.

Evergreens planters and baskets can spruce up the entryway while poinsettias make the holiday bright as it can be inside.

Staff will be happy to help you choose the right option for you. Even more, Flower Scent-R will deliver in New Rockford, Sheyenne, Carrington, Fessenden and Maddock.

Stop in during Winterfest and congratulate Gina on her 25 years at the Flower Scent-R. Gina plans to hold a big open house event when pandemic precautions have been lifted. Read the Transcript for updates.