Find Your At Flower Shop Network, we’re so lucky to be able to work with many amazing local florists and we love to share their stories with you! We’re highlighting Barrett’s Flower Shop, based in Dalton, GA, who’s celebrating their 100th year! The flower shop opened their doors in 1925 and remains there today! Though the flower shop has moved a few times, Barrett’s always came back to its original building. Co-owners Debbie Brown and Gerald Martin took over Barrett’s Flower Shop in 2005, after having worked in the business for many years. Check out what Debbie has to say about the floral industry and advice she has for other florists!
How long have you been in business?
“Since 1925. I was hired in 1985 and became manager in the early 90s, not sure exactly what year, I don’t quite remember it. And then my brother and I purchased it in 2005. I have 40 years here.”
In your own words, what would you say is the key to your success?
“Being here for the community; we try to give good customer service. We try to treat our flowers for the product that’s needed to keep them lasting their longest and looking their freshest.”
What’s been your biggest challenge as a florist?
“It’s more diversified than it’s ever been, so I guess…trying to keep up with the things people want to see online and the product to get. You know, it’s hard to have everything in stock. It’s a lot different than it was back in the day.”
What’s been your biggest resource?
“I think the internet has been a tremendous involvement lately, with people being able to look online and order.”
What inspired you to become a florist?
“Well, I had always worked in carpet. Dalton is the carpet capital of the nation at that point in time. The world, actually. And I was sick of carpet and I got offered a job. I came in changing buckets and sweeping floors. Who knew I had talent to design!”
Where do you see the floral industry in the next 50 years?
“I hope that it would be flourishing, still. It would be my wish that it would flourish and keep on.”
Any advice for the next generation of florists?
“Don’t be pinned down to the internet orders and things that you see, try to keep your creativity alive. I just got through creating a cat, you gotta still be creative! Don’t let the internet pigeonhole you.”
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