When you think about a florist, what typically comes to mind? A colorful assortment of flowers you wouldn’t think to put together, but when expertly arranged make so much sense? Roses, hydrangeas, maybe some baby’s breath with greenery to pull it all together? Perhaps a corsage for prom night, or even a calla lily plant for a funeral?
How often do we think of community and civic engagement and apprenticeship when thinking of a florist, or a history of supporting their local schools and churches? I have rarely, if ever, made that connection. However, my interview with Tony Nelson of Flowers Unlimited and Gifts has made me reevaluate my expectation of what a company should and could be in the community they serve. In a world dominated by multinational conglomerates, this is incredibly refreshing to see.
Established in 1984 by Theodore Nelson, Tony Nelson’s father, Flowers Unlimited & Gifts has been a mainstay in the Avalon Park community for over forty years.
Interestingly, the Avalon Park location was not the original storefront nor was Flowers Unlimited and Gifts the original name, according to Tony. The original iteration of the company was located on 79th near Cottage Grove and was named Flair Florist before moving further east to its current home.
Located off of the busy Stony Island avenue and occupying three storefronts, Flowers Unlimited and Gifts is nestled between Chicagoland Baked Ham and what was once a Currency Exchange. Apart from the three black awnings with the flower motifs, one could easily miss the store if whizzing by via car. However, if passing by on foot, the window dressings showcasing colorful silk floral vignettes might peak your interest and draw you in.
Upon entering the establishment you are greeted with the scent of fresh flowers, beautiful floral arrangements (both real and silk) and soft squawking of the resident parrot. Once in, your eyes will automatically gravitate to the gallery wall, which hosts framed images of family, friends, clients, politicians, local celebrities and cultural legends like Jesse Jackson and soul singer Frankie Beverly of the band Maze. Further into the store you are granted a peek into the soul of the company, Tony Nelson and his team of collaborators gracefully and masterfully arranging bouquets while enjoying convivial banter.
I asked Tony how and why he joined the business and it seemed to be an offer he couldn’t refuse. He has worked for Flowers Unlimited in some capacity since he was eighteen. Although initially he wasn’t particularly excited to be in the floral business, it was a craft he excelled in and it didn’t hurt that he was loved by clients. After working in the business for many decades alongside his father, Tony inherited the business after his father passed away.
Tony finds joy in the work, he enjoys designing floral arrangements and making his customers happy. He values his customers, maintains fair prices, and focuses on high-quality flowers to ensure repeat business.
When asked how the company maintains steady business, Tony stated that they are reliant on the company’s reputation and word-of-mouth from satisfied customers. He explained that the business/customer relationship is generational; not only do original customers purchase from Flowers Unlimited, so do their children. Perhaps this is because Flowers Unlimited has a history of donating and advertising in local Black-owned newspapers and churches. Most recently, they’ve participated in a Chicago city program called “One Summer Chicago” to employ and mentor local youth, teaching them about the business and offering them a way to earn money.
My guess is that Flowers Unlimited’s commitment to the community is the cause for the community’s commitment to them.
Flowers Unlimited & Gifts, 8621 S Stony Island Ave. Monday–Fridays, 9am–5pm; Saturdays 9am–3pm, closed Sundays. (773) 978-1333, flowersunlimited1.com