This article first appeared in the July 2009 issue of the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce newsletter.

Swing open the door of Monrovia Floral and you are enveloped by the fresh scent of forest and flower gardens. A large refrigerator holds distinctive floral arrangements, and assorted gifts fill shelves on both sides. But the scent of greenery comes from the back workroom, where creativity and camaraderie flow into each bouquet.

The story of Monrovia Floral is one of family and community. It starts in 1924, when Eva Reherman and R. Switzenberg opened Monrovia Floral and Seed Co. and also became members of the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce. Over the years, the shop was the livelihood for several families: the Grooms, who moved it from South Myrtle to Foothill; the Hills; and then Tom and Jenny Garrett who owned the shop for over 25 years.

Gloria Huss first came to Monrovia Floral about 28 years ago as a driver. She learned the art of arranging flowers, and she learned the business – from sourcing flowers and vases, to greeting customers. At the same time, she became part of the Monrovia business community, attending Chamber meetings and other events with Tom and Jenny.

When the Garretts retired in 1989, Gloria took over the store – just 2 months after moving the shop to a location on Myrtle and Lemon. Five months later, Gloria married Steven, whom she had met through Tom and Jenny. The Garretts continued to mentor Gloria over the next several years.

Gloria has seen great changes in the floral industry. Fresh flowers are now easily purchased at large grocery chains and through online order-taking services. But a retail shop has the personal touch. Gloria’s team puts their passion for flowers into each arrangement, and quickly pick up the phone to ask about individual preferences.

Gloria speaks little about her successes, but the results are evident. She bought Duarte Flowers & Gifts (1995), Hortense First Avenue Floral (2006) and The Poppy Shoppe (2006). She moved the shop to its current location on Olive Avenue in 2001. She also computerized the POS system, allowing better personalized service. She now buys fresher flowers in volume, direct from South America.

Gloria cares about the community. She is involved with many local organizations including the Chamber, and the Old Town Merchants Association. Passionate about animals, she saves feral cats and is an avid supporter of the Crocodile Hunter. She has introduced many green initiatives in her shop, and will give discounts for returned flower vases.

Next time you need fresh flowers, step inside the world of Monrovia Floral and discover the personal touch of family and community.

Find Monrovia Floral online.