When Carl Rittner opened his School of Floral Design in Boston nearly 70 years ago, he could have no way of knowing how his vision would change the industry. Long recognized as the pioneer of seeing floral design as a serious artistic pursuit, he would eventually serve as the inspiration for Floral Design Day, established in 1995. Across the country, thousands of designers have been influenced by his legacy. We thought it only fitting that as the industry celebrates this special day, we introduce you to one of our designers. Chances are good that if you have ever received a beautiful bouquet or arrangement from Schaaf Floral, Patty may have had a hand in it. (All of the photos shown in this story are Patty’s designs)
Patty has quite literally grown up in this business. Her aunt owned a flower shop, and she started working there at the tender age of 13 – and never let! Her career at her family’s florist spanned 35 years, but when the shop was forced to close for economic reasons, Patty brought her talents to Schaaf Floral in September of 2007. ” I love designing”, says Patty, explaining her longevity in the industry. ” I get to create something different every day.”
Patty’s favorite flower is the gardenia, but she doesn’t play favorites when it comes to design. “I do like working with hydrangea, delphinium, lilies and iris; and I love the times that we get gorgeous carnations and gladioli in the shop.” When asked of she had a favorite design or project that she had worked on over the years, the memorial service for Minnesota Twins infielder Harmon Killibrew stands out. ” We really enjoyed creating the flowers for the service, and being out on Target Field was a great experience.”
Schaaf Floral is happy to introduce you to one of the talented professionals behind the gorgeous designs you have come to expect from our flower shop. We’d like to thank her for helping to make Fridley and Minneapolis more beautiful, one floral arrangement at a time.
Patty has a longtime significant other named Mike, two adult sons, a daughter in law that she adores, and a grandson and granddaughter who capture her spare time.
