Finding Joy in Unexpected Places: Former College Basketball Coach Brings Hyper-Realistic Flower Rentals to Cypress Area
From the basketball court to the fragrant world of blooms, Eric Brand, the founder of The Flower Rental Company, has found his calling in an unexpected place. Originally from Bloomington, Indiana, and formerly a college basketball coach, Eric pivoted his career path to launch a unique business in the rapidly-growing Cypress area.
Eric began his journey in the flower rental business in September 2023. His inspiration stemmed from his desire to build something of his own while offering flexibility for his young children. His typical client? Anyone who loves flowers but doesn't want the upkeep or cost associated with fresh ones.
"I found that flowers bring color and joy to people," Eric shared. "What I love most is the interaction with customers. It's rewarding to walk into an office or a clinic and see the smiles on people's faces when they see our flowers."
You might be thinking, how does a basketball coach transition into the floral industry? For Eric, it was easier than expected. He found a similar sense of satisfaction in transforming spaces with colorful blooms, as he did in guiding his basketball teams to victories. Coaching at Baylor University, Tyler Junior College, and Texas State University, his love of helping others and making a positive impact on their lives transcends the court and now, brings him fulfillment on a delightfully unexpected path.
Based in Cypress, The Flower Rental Company is eager to raise awareness around their hyper-realistic flower arrangements with locals. They aim to be customers' go-to option to enhance the look of their spaces, give as a gift, or decorate corporate events and weddings, including gorgeous flower walls and arches that create a stunning scene for photos at any event. Long-term, Eric is setting his sights on developing a significant presence in the industry while saving people up to 80% compared to the cost of fresh flowers.
Recently, Eric further cemented his bond with the local community by celebrating a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce. Paula Harvey, the Chamber's VP, couldn't be happier for Eric's blooming success.
"Eric's passion for bringing joy to people through flowers is truly refreshing," Paula said. "The Flower Rental Company is a unique and much-needed service in our community. We're excited to see them continue to grow and flourish."
Despite his busy schedule running the The Flower Rental Company, Eric also devotes time to his two children as a full-time, single dad, his church, and coaching a local middle school basketball team. He collaborated with Cy-Fair Helping Hands for their annual Festival of Trees event last year, as well as a fundraiser for the Bridgeland High School athletics department. This year, he is actively pursuing additional collaborations with other local organizations to make a positive difference in the community.
From basketball courts to blossoming bouquets, Eric's journey reminds us to chase joy and fulfillment in unexpected places. No matter where life takes us, it's the pursuit of happiness that truly counts.
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Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
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