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Aside from hard work, perseverance and the like, Owner Joseph Edwards likes to believe the store's personal touch is a big part of its 25-year success.
"We provide more than just floral services," said the Bronxville resident.
"Much to the delight of our customers, Graceland offers gourmet fruit baskets, fresh cut fruit bouquets, gardening decor, gifts/trinkets, cards, and jewelry."
The fact that he and his sister, Annmarie, an Eastchester resident, run it is another plus.
Edwards said the internet has drastically changed the way the floral business now operates. "With online shopping the new norm, we have seen in-store foot traffic decrease," he said.
Still, he holds on by offering an array of services as well as tapping into the big floral events of the year. Historically, Valentine's day has been among his time followed by Mother's day and then the holiday and graduation seasons but Edwards said he's recently noticed a shift in buying patterns.
"Mother's day is becoming a really busy holiday, just as busy as Valentine's day while the holiday and graduation seasons still hold strong," he said. "Father's day is now making its presence known."
To keep current, Edwards has worked hard at building partnerships with companies like 1-800-Flowers and Hallmark and looks forward to continuing to serve the local community as well the whole of Westchester County for an additional 25 years -- at least.
To celebrate its anniversary milestone, Graceland Florist will be serving refreshments and offering raffles as well as a 20 percent discount off any in-store purchase on Thursday, Oct. 5. The festivities begin at 4 p.m.
The shop is located at 527 Gramatan Ave., 914-664-3111, www.gracelandflorist.com/.
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