Membership Spotlight
By Nicole West, Newbridge Telecom Solutions - Glendale Chamber Marketing Committee
Glendale Flowers and Gifts
With the adorable vintage flower cart to greet you at the edge of the sidewalk, the neatly
trimmed walkway that entices you to follow, the large open front patio, and French doors that say
“Come on in!”, you can’t help but be excited to find this neighborhood florist tucked away in the Catlin
Court Historic District of Downtown Glendale. Owner and head florist, Sue Mensi, beams when she
talks about the shop’s history, how she came to be in the floral business, and what led her to purchase
this shop. She continues growing it while making her own mark in Downtown Glendale.
Sue mentioned that she began her florist career cleaning buckets. Her sister, also a florist,
helped her make her way into the business. She loved working around flowers and was hooked from
there. Each time Sue took a position at a floral shop, she learned more and more and realized early on
that someday she wanted to own and run one herself. Sue has 20 years of experience and says she
absolutely loves what she does. Sue is also a foster parent who wanted to provide for her family on her
terms. She is able to do more with them by having the ability to be flexible in her schedule if needed.
Sue says she’s always loved Downtown Glendale and this particular floral shop was her favorite, so
when she learned the owners were looking for a buyer she knew this was her opportunity. Sue worked
for them part-time for a while to see how she would like it, and she LOVED it! Sue learned about the
history of the store, how to run a business, and made the decision to purchase it. She’s made some
improvements since then by opening up the space inside through décor and furniture changes. It’s a
very relaxing space!
Before joining the Glendale Chamber Harry came by regularly to discuss membership. She felt
that the Chamber was a good start for marketing, so she decided to join. Sue does admit she has only
had time to attend one event so far, which was at Gogh Paint! She did have a lot of fun and she wishes
she had time to attend other Chamber events, but feels she is still connected to the Chamber through
their emails, and the Chamber magazine which she advertises in. Sue is hoping to offer some fun floral
arrangement classes (where you can bring wine too!) in the front of the shop in the future and plans to
market that through the Chamber as well.
Sue mentioned her biggest challenges are that the building is set back off the road and
restrictions from the City of Glendale make it difficult for people to see, but having the vintage flower
cart near the sidewalk helps bring attention to the shop. Sue believes in providing a personal
experience with her clients and customers. She is more than happy to customize an arrangement or
help you select a freshly made one from the display case. She also specializes in Weddings and Special
Events! Sue has other items in the shop for sale as well, such as wind chimes, garden signs, gift baskets
and greeting cards. Stop by and say Hi!
Glendale Flowers and Gifts
7145 N. 58th Drive
Glendale, AZ 85301
Phone: 623-931-2416
Website: glendaleflowers.net
Facebook: facebook.com/glendaleflowersofarizona