Meet Andrew Ruiz

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrew Ruiz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrew, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting my own business was deeply personal. After the passing of my niece in May 2023, I began creating flower arrangements as a way to memorialize her in a beautiful way at home. As I made more arrangements, I realized how much I loved floral design and really began to see it as a potential career path for myself.

Determined to pursue this new passion, I immersed myself in the flower industry, learning everything I could from my partner and friends, whom already have established careers in the flower world. I have had the incredible opportunity to assist with flowers for large-scale destination weddings and celebrity events, witnessing firsthand the hard work that goes into creating such extravagant displays.

Seeing the beauty that flowers can bring to life and the joy they create for others solidified my decision to start my own floral design business, now known as Cowboy Petals. It felt like the perfect way to blend my love for creativity with the chance to share a bit of happiness with the world, while also serving as further tribute to my niece, keeping her memory alive through the beauty of floral art.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think what sets me apart from others is my artistic approach to flower arrangements. Each creation is like a painting to me, where I blend colors and textures to evoke emotion and beauty. I embrace a more natural, wild style, aiming to craft colorful arrangements that are not only visually striking but also tell a story. I’m most excited about the possibilities this career can bring and see how my arrangements can create meaningful memories for those who experience them.

My journey to this point has been a blend of dedication and discovery. It hasn’t always been easy. There have been times of self-doubt and moments when I compared myself to others in the industry, which made me question my own path. However, I’ve learned the importance of perseverance. When I feel discouraged, I remind myself that what truly matters is my passion for floral design and the joy I find in creating. I focus on that love, knowing that the right opportunities will follow.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about staying true to myself and my art. I want the world to see flowers not just as decoration but as a medium for creative expression. My hope is to inspire excitement and fascination with flowers, encouraging others to appreciate their beauty and versatility in new ways.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting LA, I’d definitely take them to explore Los Feliz and Silver Lake. Both neighborhoods are so vibrant with art at almost very corner and tons of shops lining the main streets. We’d definitely grab something to eat at Mirate on Vermont and Prospect. The food is an innovative take on Mexican cuisine, cocktails never disappoint and has really good vibes inside. It’s definitely one of my favorite spots. I’d also introduce them to the Mid-City/West Adams area, where we’d stop by Jurassic Magic Coffee Shop for some coffee or tea and enjoy the relaxing garden in the back. For the rest of our time together, I’d take them to the Los Angeles Flower Market in downtown LA; it’s a must-see for its sheer size and variety of flowers. We’d also visit the Melrose Trading Post on a Sunday for some fun shopping. And of course, we’d need to make a stop at the beach. I can never get enough of soaking up the sun and swimming in the ocean. To cap off the trip, I’d love to end the night at the Hollywood Bowl to enjoy a fun concert under the stars

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a special thanks to my partner, Mikey, for playing an important role in my journey. Although my floral design career is still in its early stages, I wouldn’t be where I am today without his guidance in the art of floral design and the valuable tips and tricks he’s shared with me along the way. His unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in pushing me to keep going, even during moments of self-doubt. He’s my biggest supporter and my biggest creative inspiration.

Instagram: @cowboypetals

Other: email: cowboypetals@gmail.com