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

Hi Atefeh, why did you pursue a creative career?
The biggest impact in my artistic life was winning first place in a calligraphy contest when I was nine years old. After I recognized my passion and talent in art, I continued to pursue other creative avenues including painting, photography, interior design, floral design, and musical instruments. I received a total of 24 art certificates. My friends and family members always asked me to design their homes and plan special occasions for them. I received a lot of positive feedback on my work and decided to form my own business after I moved to the United States. I founded Irisa Design because I wanted a full-time career in my lifelong passion for art.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Irisa Design is a Dallas-based company that specializes in creating unique designs for weddings and special events. We offer unique designs for floral arrangements, balloons, calligraphy, and dessert bars. It has been a pleasure to be part of my client’s special occasions. When I started my business, I was a full-time student with a full-time job. I started my business out of a one-bedroom apartment. One of the most important factors in business is to continuously learn and improve your skill set. I’ve learned many new skills including advertising, photography, and tax filing. It is important to not give up. I’ve always reminded myself in order to be a successful entrepreneur, you have to give yourself and your business full attention. There is no easy business. If you love and are passionate about what you do and work hard for it, you will see positive results.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Lala Land Kind Café- is located in a fun neighborhood and is full of positive energy and amazing products.

Sneaky Pete’s- is one of my favorite places with a great atmosphere along with a beautiful lake and a terrific staff.

Hutchins BBQ- I am not a big fan of red meat and try to eat more vegetables and vegan food, but if I want to show what Texas BBQ is like, I will take my guests there.

Edith’s French Bistro- I am a big fan of sweets and tea. Edith’s has delicious pastries that you can enjoy in a good atmosphere!

Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit Dallas- is a really cool exhibit! You get to sit down and watch a video featuring the works of Van Gogh in a new way!

Candytopia – For those who love candy and art like me, this is the best place for fun and to take memorable pictures with friends!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Book : Daddy long legs Author: Jean Webster
I read this book when I was fourteen. The book’s main character is Judy Abbott and tells the story of the challenges of life and how to overcome them. The book was important to me as a teenager since I’ve learned about some of the challenges in life and the importance of seeing all the beauty around it as well.

It is important to have people close to you that believe in you and show their support. Finding people who are always by your side is the best gift anyone could have. I am very fortunate to have my parents’ support and friends and family who care and encourage me on difficult days.

I want to mention three names: Rana, Sahar, and Monica. They are always supportive of me in all circumstances and have truly cared about me over the last five years.

Website: www.irisadesign.com

Instagram: @irisa_design @designbyirisa

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atefeh-raouf-85aa44189/

Facebook: page=> @Irisa wedding and event design -Profile=>Irisa floral

Image Credits
Amy Karp Shapour Rahmani Majid Rahimi Atefeh Raouf

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.