Welcome to Bolivar | Ciara's Floral Designs

Social media can be a huge boost for establishing a new business in town, or just helping to grow one that’s already been established. However, it also can be easy to overlook the “who” behind that business because we’re not walking into the actual “store” and meeting them. I want to help you connect with some of our local businesses and their owners here in Bolivar, MO, so I will occasionally be posting them in this series called “Welcome to Bolivar”.

We’re starting off with Ciara’s Floral Designs, LLC of Bolivar. Ciara opened the doors to her charming shop almost two years ago. She is located on the corner of Aldrich Rd. and Springfield Ave., sitting next to Rustic Willow. Her shop is decorated with stylish home decor, trendy t-shirts, live plants, and of course, fresh flowers!

Ciara is originally from Stockton, where she worked at a local flower shop throughout high school, falling in love with the profession. She loves being active and just being outdoors in general. When I asked her why she chose to be a florist she said,

“I love the small stuff about my job, like seeing people’s faces light up when they receive an unexpected arrangement; or the comfort you get to give families when they need it most, or getting to be part of someone’s special day.”

Starting a new business can be intimating, confusing, overwhelming, and let’s not forget to mention the long hours you put in behind the scenes. Ciara said her biggest challenge was to get well established and learn what her customer’s style preferences are.

“It’s important to know what the town needs in order to fill that void.”

Ciara said she’s enjoyed running a business in Bolivar and that she’s received a lot of support from the town, who has been welcoming and shown nothing but love for her business. If you’re thinking about starting your own business, she has some advice for you…

“Learn as much as you can about the career you have chosen. If it doesn’t work out the way you had planned, you should still be proud of yourself for trying your hardest. Make sure you have a support system, because without my family and friends I wouldn’t be where I am. It’s a long process that can be stressful, and if you don’t have the support of those around you it can be really hard.”

Next time you’re looking to purchasing a beautiful, custom made floral arrangement, make sure to stop by her shop at 840 E. Aldrich Rd., or give her a call at (417) 328-9999.