Tobore Oweh is a passionate and super talented floral designer, plus a model on the side
BASED IN: NEW YORK
Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, I was born to two creative and entrepreneurial parents; a father who contributed to the evolution of Afrobeat music and a mother who named her dental clinic after her only daughter. Although relocating to America at an early age, my deep-rooted love for my culture and background kept me grounded as my passion for design evolved.
After freelancing with an array of notable companies in the industry, I relocated to Los Angeles in 2018 and launched my own floral and design company, The Petal Effect. As an avid lover of vibrant colors, bold prints, and a sprinkle of glam, it is my hope to share my truth and experiences through my love of floral design.
Since trusting my intuition, I have partnered with notable brands like Coca-Cola, Babies-R-Us, KISS USA, Anastasia Beverly Hills and Budweiser. It wasn’t until partnering with Sally Hansen for the “I Care for Me” social campaign that I realized the driving force behind my brand; floral design as an act of self-care & love, celebration, and building community.
Who inspires you?
My mom inspires me so much! Taking care of my whole family and always putting herself last on the list. Always going above and beyond for me. So hardworking and ambitious. She's my HERO!!
What has been the most beneficial to your success?
Understanding that there will never be another me. Some people may be more established than me and others not but at the end of the day, there is only one me in this whole entire world. That idea makes me work harder and stay strong because to me, life is about the legacy you leave behind.
Do you have any business experience? How did you learn?
The internet is an amazing thing! I watch lots of videos online to further help me understand the art of floral designing. I've done numerous internships/volunteer work so I can learn and grow as a designer. I've also worked at a flower shop. There's no experience like hands-on experience. The best way to learn is by jumping right into it...trial and error!
What company or business do you admire the most?
Makini Regal Designs. I recently just started interning with Makini and I can truly say it's a blessing. From her warm and kind heart to her business ethics, I pray to one day be as skilled and successful as her.
Would you encourage the younger generation to build their own businesses?
I will always encourage the younger generation to build their own. It sucks working under someone I'm not going to lie. You're always going to be on their time and you're helping their dream come alive so why not put energy into your dreams and aspirations. It's not an easy thing to do at all, but in the end I think it's always worth a try.
Any last inspiring words for entrepreneurs out there?
SKY IS THE LIMIT. YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO. I'M SPEAKING FROM 100% EXPERIENCE NOT JUST CLICHE WORDS. MY MOTTO IS DREAM, PLAN, EXECUTE AND EVOLVE.