Greenport Floral Designer Gets Back to Basics

For nearly five years, has provided the North Fork with stunning floral arrangements for every occasion.  

At first, owner and floral designer Richard Corbin and partner Peter McGarry set up shop in Greenport’s Stirling Square. Later, the pair expanded their business to include more of a retail component and moved to a larger space on Main Street. Now, just in time for Valentine’s Day, Richard is getting back to basics and concentrating on what he does best – flowers.  

“So much more of our business these days seems to be people ordering arrangements, whether for a small party, as a gift, of for major events such as weddings,” said Richard. “We’re trying to shift the store to be more responsive to individual needs.”

As a result, Clawflowers has closed its Main Street location and moved to a new space at 211 East Front Street, behind De Angela Leather. Minus the art, sculpture and other assorted items that were for sale at the old store, this new location has the feel of workspace, rather than a retail shop.  

“That was our intention, that was what we were looking for, and that was how we set it up,” said Richard. “Now we’re not burning out on the retail stuff. Instead of catering to foot traffic, we can now cater to people looking for a unique product and we will be able to better deliver that product to them.”

Clawflowers is the village’s only florist, but to call Richard a florist is unfair. In a world where homogenous FTD-style arrangements are the norm, Richard’s work truly stands alone.

“What really sets us apart is that you’re buying our floral designs,” he said. “When you call Clawflowers, you know that you are going to get a floral work of art.”

Clawflowers has made a name for itself creating floral artistry, as Richard calls it, for private parties, weddings and other similar events. His work can already been seen at various high-profile North Fork establishments including Noah’s Restaurant and the D’Latte Coffee Bar. Now, in its new workspace, Richard says that Clawflowers can focus on the public’s demand for more unique designs.

Although the Clawflowers has no set hours, anyone looking for an arrangement can call 631-594-2623. Clawflowers is currently taking orders for Valentine’s Day and Richard expects to be in the shop throughout the weekend for one of the biggest floral holidays of the year.