by Jennifer Alexander Ruple
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Hafner Florist. The trees are trimmed, the lights are aglow, and the scent of Christmas is in the air. Owners Josh Miller, Kyle Vierling and Kate Sterns have been busy preparing the shop for their upcoming holiday open house on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 3 to 8 pm. “It was a great community event last year. People loved mingling and sharing ideas, so we encourage you to come and bring your friends,” said Josh Miller.
At Hafner Florist, located at 5139 Main St. in Sylvania’s Southbriar Plaza, guests at the open house are invited to enjoy beverages, hors d’oeuvres and desserts while perusing the many festive vignettes throughout the shop – peppermint, black and white, icy glamour, white and gold, earthy woodland, and bright and colorful with wooden toys and puzzles are themes to behold. “Our retail section has so much to offer. Customers will find gifts for themselves and others,” said Miller. “We carry the Frasier Fir line of candles, soaps and lotions as well as Green Bubble Gorgeous bath and body products. We also have a wide selection of taper candles and holders. They’ve come back in a big way,” he added. For one-stop shopping, a selection of cards, gift wrap and gift bags are available.
“We have a collection of premade fresh and silk pieces, plus many holiday plants including amaryllis, poinsettias, paperwhites, lemon Cyprus topiaries, rosemary trees and rare conifer varieties,” Miller pointed out. A portion of the proceeds from sales during the open house will benefit Sylvania Area Family Services.
The open house fun continues with a drawing for giveaways and a gift with any purchase over $50 while supplies last. Those who prebook and pay for Thanksgiving and Christmas centerpieces that day will receive 10 percent off. Customers may also set up appointments for business and home decorating consultations. “During our consultations, we concentrate on asking the right questions – what are you trying to accomplish, and what look are you going for,” said Miller. “Then we work hard to bring that dream to life.”
Miller stated, “Home has become more important to families and people are reinventing themselves and how they celebrate the holidays. The best part is that you can express yourself any way you want to these days.”
The team at Hafner Florist can create custom arrangements and décor for any type of function or event. “Whether a client needs one centerpiece or decorations for a big holiday party, our team strives to create something memorable,” explained Miller. Additionally, Hafner offers a nearby event space that can be rented for parties of 25 to 30 guests.
Reflecting on their almost two years of ownership, Miller expressed pride in what they have achieved at Hafner Florist. “We are committed to maintaining the business while we explore new avenues of growth. We always have something new and different in our shop.”