RIVER CITY FLORIST
FULL-SERVICE RETAIL FLORIST

Your Own Way

What is the name of your business? Michael (M): It was named River City Florist when I purchased the business in 1987 and later we added “Gifts” to our name as our giftware selection increased.

What is your product or service? M: We’re a full-service retail florist. We also started beautifying the downtown area about 20 years ago — helping Jefferson City to be voted the most beautiful small town in America.

What’s your favorite part of your business? M: Being a part of our customer’s biggest life events. Whether it’s in their happy times or sad. Lauren (L): Being able to be creative in a new way each day, and building relationships with our customers.

What are your future goals? M: A smooth transition as I prepare to pass the business to my daughter. L: To turn the business into my own. Everyone knows Mike as the face of River City, but I’ve been behind the scenes for almost 12 years now.

What sets you apart from your competition? M: The knowledge of our customer base as well as putting time and detail into every project. L: Since we’re family owned and operated, our customers get special customer service because we truly do care and treat them like family. When we make a customer happy, we are personally happy. When we make a customer sad, we also get sad. It’s a very emotional business.

How many employees? M: We started out with three employees and we now have 18!

Any awards or notables that we should know about? The Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 Small Business of the Year Award and countless CITY’s Best Awards.

Who are your biggest supporters? L: Honestly, the entire city of Jefferson. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the people here.

Do you have any advice for those just getting started? M: You just have to be prepared to consistently work your butt off for a very long time. L: Owning a business means you are always working, you’re never disconnected from the business. It becomes your life and you have to be OK with it. Luckily, I love what I do!

Where’s your favorite place for a lunch meeting? M: Madison’s Cafe is right next door and has been our great neighbor from the start.