Today we’d like to introduce you to Ira Lopotan.
Hi Ira, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my career in floristry at 16, working in a local flower shop as an order taker. Over time, the owner noticed my growing interest and natural ability with design, and she took me under her wing. She taught me the fundamentals of floristry—from mechanics to design principles—and that mentorship laid the foundation for everything I do today.
After graduating college with a BA in Sociology, I stepped away from the floral industry and spent about five years working in a pathology laboratory. While it was a valuable experience, I quickly realized it didn’t offer the creativity or fulfillment I was looking for. That clarity ultimately led me back to flowers.
I decided to move to Spartanburg, South Carolina to be closer to family, and with my mother’s encouragement and my brother’s support, I opened my own flower shop in November of 2018. From there, the business grew through continued floral education, hands-on experience, and a lot of trial and error.
Today, I create florals for everyday occasions as well as large-scale events, but weddings are where I truly shine. The combination of design, installation, and transforming a space is what I love most, and it’s where my experience and creativity come together at the highest level.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most small business owners, I’ve faced challenges at every stage, but the most significant test came during COVID-19. Overnight, events were canceled, weddings were postponed, and uncertainty became the norm for small businesses.
We were fortunate to survive that period due to a combination of emergency funding and the fact that we already had a delivery system in place. Being able to pivot quickly and continue serving customers through deliveries allowed us to maintain relationships and cash flow when in-person events weren’t possible.
Beyond the pandemic, there were also the ongoing challenges of pricing, sourcing, staffing, and balancing creativity with the operational demands of the business. Each obstacle required adaptability and resilience. Looking back, those struggles strengthened the foundation of the business and reinforced my ability to navigate change while continuing to grow.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I own and operate a full-service floral business creating custom arrangements for everyday occasions as well as large-scale events. While we serve a wide range of clients, I specialize in wedding florals—specifically design, installation, and décor that transform a space and feel cohesive, intentional, and elevated.
I’m known for thoughtful design, attention to detail, and reliability. Clients trust that what we plan on paper will be executed beautifully on the wedding day, and that trust is something I take very seriously. I focus on florals that feel timeless rather than trendy, with careful consideration given to color, texture, and scale.
What I’m most proud of is building a business that blends creativity with professionalism. From consultations to setup and breakdown, I’ve developed systems that allow couples to feel confident and supported throughout the process.
What sets me apart is my hands-on involvement and experience. I’m deeply involved in every stage—from design to installation—and I bring both technical skill and calm leadership to high-pressure event days. That combination of artistry, organization, and personal investment is where I truly stand out.
How do you think about happiness?
What truly makes me happy is creating meaningful moments for people, both in my work and in my personal life. Becoming a mother to my three-year-old daughter added an entirely new layer to that. Motherhood has deepened my perspective and changed how I approach this industry.
Weddings, celebrations, and even everyday floral gestures now carry more weight for me because I see them through the lens of legacy, family, and memory. I understand how fleeting and important these moments are, and that awareness shows up in my work through greater intention, patience, and care.
Professionally, flowers allow me to create beauty and mark life’s milestones. Personally, my daughter reminds me why those milestones matter. That balance—between creativity, purpose, and family—is what brings me the most fulfillment
Pricing:
- Diamond Package Designed for weddings needing personal florals and ceremony coverage Includes full wedding party florals (bridal bouquet, bridesmaids, boutonnieres, parent florals) Ceremony florals such as arch, pillars, or focal arrangements Aisle markers or welcome sign florals as needed Ideal for couples wanting a polished ceremony look without full reception florals Typical investment range: $1,400–$2,000
- Platinum Package Full wedding floral coverage from ceremony through reception Includes all personal florals and ceremony designs Reception florals such as approximately 10–15 centerpieces Sweetheart table and cake florals Elevated design with more variety, texture, and scale On-site delivery and setup included Typical investment range: $3,500–$5,200
- Titanium Package Luxury, fully custom floral design experience Includes complete personal florals, ceremony, and reception coverage Premium flower selections and high-impact statement pieces Large-scale installations such as arches, hanging florals, or ceiling designs Full on-site setup, styling, and breakdown Ideal for couples seeking a dramatic, immersive floral experience Investment starts at: $6,500+ (custom pricing based on scope)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.irasflowers.com or www.irasweddings.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irasflowers/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/irasflowershop/#
