Ben Shamooelian | Houston Flowery (Now River Oaks Plant House)
Born in the city of Esfahan, into a large family, Ben Shamooelian has “a great loving and caring family and great life” he says. But since he was an adventurous person, always looking for something challenging and daring, he convinced his parents to let him leave home. At 17, Ben arrived in Houston where his uncle, who is like a father to him, lives. Wanting to work while in school, Ben’s uncle gave him his first job in the flower industry. And what began as a temporary job turned into his career.
After several months of work, he obtained some skills, learned English and was promoted from labor worker to salesperson, and then earned promotion to Assistant Manager. Not long after that he became General Manager and started buying into the company, currently owning two of the most prestigious flower shops in Houston with his uncle.
Being in the service business, Ben believes the key to success is persistence in striving for customer satisfaction. By doing this, by going the extra mile, and by having loyal customers is how a small flower business has grown to where they are today. “By the end of each day, what brings satisfaction is when we see truly happy customers in whose lives we have made a difference and touched a heart, no matter what occasion they have chosen us to be part of,” shares Ben.
IS THIS YOUR INTENDED CAREER PATH? IF NOT, HOW DID YOU GET HERE?
No, I was studying to be an engineer, but started a good job opportunity with my uncle.
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?
Family therapist.
WHY HOUSTON?
My uncle and the friendly Houstonians.
FAVORITE BOOK?
Firm, Yes! Angry, Never!
FAVORITE BAND?
DJ Buddah
WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATION?
Bar. My dad.
BIGGEST LIFE LESSON LEARNED?
Don’t judge others.
HOW DO YOU WANT TO BE REMEMBERED?
An inspiring human being.
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?
I had my own business at 6 selling accessories.
WHAT DO YOU PLAN ON DOING WHEN YOU RETIRE?
I plan on helping children in need.
WHAT LUXURY (ITEM OR SERVICE) DO YOU WISH YOU COULD INDULGE YOURSELF WITH?
Nothing, thank God. I love my life.
WHAT DEFINES HOUSTON AS YOUR “HOMETOWN”?
The southern hospitality.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN HOUSTON TO SHOW OFF TO A VISITOR?
My stores.
TEXANS STILL HAVE A REPUTATION FOR BRAGGING. WHAT WOULD YOU BRAG ABOUT?
You can’t get better flowers than what we have.
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER A HIDDEN TREASURE OF HOUSTON?
Houston Flowery. (Now River Oaks Plant House)
IF YOU OWNED A HOUSTON SPORTS TEAM, WHAT WOULD YOU CALL THEM?
The Braves.
