Business Spotlight: Brown Floral
May 08, 2015 09:22PM ● By City Journals StaffBrown Floral
Brown Floral was established in 1915 by Leon Brown. Around 1926, he recruited his wife to join him in the day-to-day operations. She told him she would work with him, not for him. That was the start of a business partnership that prospered for many, many years.
Rob Johnson and Tracie Drage purchased Brown Floral in 2010. Neither had any floral experience, but immediately recognized the opportunity of such a solid legacy business. They brought their enthusiasm for sales and marketing to the table, and began focusing on business-to-business. All the employees remained and played integral parts in helping the business survive such a bold transition. Within the first three years, the business tripled, reclaiming its position as one of Utah’s leading florists.
“My business partner and I looked at Brown Floral and quickly decided to step into history and become part of a nearly 100-year-old legacy,” said Drage of the decision to purchase the company. “The business had benefited from the Brown family and two other owners, and we were excited to take the torch and run with it.”
In 2013, Johnson and Drage acquired Mildred’s Flowers. At that time, Mildred’s had been serving the community for over 70 years, first under the ownership of the beloved Mildred, and then her daughter, Becky Starks Butler. Butler and Drage worked together to provide a smooth transition for employees and customers. Both share a passion for exceptional customer service and unsurpassed quality in floral arrangements.
Although Brown Floral is celebrating their 100th year birthday, they don’t act their age! Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, blogging, and networking are key components to their business. They pay close attention to the marketing trends. They continue to look for ways to keep their story fresh and relevant.
To celebrate their 100th year, Brown Floral has advertised throughout the Valley their desire to find businesses and individuals that were also “born” in 1915. Brown Floral provides them with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and enjoys the opportunity of hearing stories about the “good ol’ days” when they celebrated special occasions with the services provided by Brown Floral.
Giving back to the community is also important to the team at Brown Floral. This summer they are excited to be part of the “Play Unplugged” program through the Granite School District. The Unplugged program encourages children to get out and participate in healthy lifestyles activities.
“Flowers are powerful messengers of love and peace. They were in 1915, they are today, and they will continue to be for years to come,” says Drage. “I am so proud to be part of a business that provides a service that keeps us connected as human beings. It’s important and meaningful, and we make it happen every single day.”
Brown Floral is located at 2233 Murray Holladay Road, and will be moving right next door in July. Come in for a visit, or call (801) 278-4800 to order flowers for your next occasion.