Waseca Floral prepares for the holidays

Waseca Floral, one of Waseca’s longest-operating businesses, held its fifty-fourth annual open house on Saturday, Nov. 1. Upon arriving, visitors were met by a Christmas tree, holiday music, free cookies, cider, and owner Rick Morris.

 

Dressed in a red/green flannel shirt and brown pants, he fit right in with the holiday mood. He shook hands as people arrived and immediately directed all attention to the Christmas tree. With Halloween behind us, ‘tis the season, said Morris, “This open house is a good day for us, we get to show off our Christmas items and all our other stuff.” Around him were floral items mixed in with holiday décor, baskets, bears, flowers, and wreaths.

 

Rick and his wife Sheila were kind enough to pose for a photo behind the counter: Rick was quick to point out, “We’re also doing classes.” Sheila continued, “Today we have two classes, and we’ll be holding two more next Saturday, Nov. 8, at both 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Anyone can attend, they just need to call and register.” Rick said, “We provide the spruce tops, any plants that you may need, pots, pinecones, birch logs, berries, red twigs, extra greens and any instructions.” So far this year they’ve only scheduled four classes but depending on public feedback they would like to have more. The greenhouse in the back was set up with long tables, fancy tablecloths and other workshop related items.  

 

Waseca Floral used to sell Christmas trees, said Rick, “We stopped selling trees, those were Fraser Firs, that was three years ago, we were having trouble with our vendor getting them, so we had to scrap that. But we still have wreaths and roping and we’re open all year around and we love Christmas.” While he spoke, he was reminded about the free rose giveaway for a customer that had walked in, “What color rose can I get for you?” Were his first words, the color yellow was chosen, and he took the time to wrap it up professionally. After answering a few questions he told the customer, “We also work well for birthdays, funerals, and anniversaries.

 

The next Porch Pot workshop at Waseca Floral will be Nov. 8 at both 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Anyone wishing to register can call 507-835-3790.