Welcome to the weekly Emirates Woman series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
This week, we sat down with Albert Tranquilino, the founder of Darcey Flowers, a luxe floral boutique here in Dubai. While noticing a gap in the region, Albert launched the brand to bring premium and quality flowers to the UAE for any occasion. With same-day delivery throughout the UAE and new innovations in terms of designs, the brand always manages to stay on top of its game.
He discusses with Emirates Woman the challenges faced as a growing business during the pandemic and how the world of floristry continues to grow in the Middle East.
What was your favourite subject at school?
I was very interested in History and delving back into the archives of time.
What was your first job?
At the early age of 12 years old, I landed a job as a janitor at the local flower shop.
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What inspired you to go start your own company Darcey Flowers?
My early experience in life has taught me to aim big and eventually pursue my dreams. It was my aim from day one to start my own flower company. It has been my burning desire to make this dream happen and to be able to create opportunities for many people particularly the Filipino community in the UAE. With the help of my team members, it’s been very fulfilling to spread happiness in the form of floristry. Not everyone has the same privileges, however, together we can make a difference.
What are the key elements of your role?
Running a company entails a heavy responsibility. It is my role to align the organisation and make the final call on the overall vision.
Talk us through your daily routine.
To kickstart my day, I typically start with a workout in the morning. I allocate time to communicate with every department and all of my team members. During the day, I’m occupied with finding effective ways on how to facilitate growth and increase opportunities to my employees, while at the same time understanding how to add more value to our customers. My day is never complete without spending quality time with my family.
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What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
Life is never easy. You will encounter challenges that will test how courageous you are as a person. Be optimistic and don’t fear failure. Take every new day as an opportunity to grow. It’s important to follow your passion and to never stop learning.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
Two things, be patient and never give up in life.
What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
I have to say the biggest challenge I had so far was when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The operations came to a halt for more than a month, with 16 people relying on the company at that time, I have to keep my faith. Due to our high resiliency level, teamwork and unity, we rise up during difficult times.
What are your goals for 2021?
My ardent goal this year is to take Darcey Flowers to a different level.
For more information visit darceyflowers.ae
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Feature image: Instagram @darceyflowers
