Family-Owned Luxury Florists
Turning Your Special Days into Masterpieces
Our family bought the firm in 1988 and renamed it Shield’s Flowers & Events, inspired by the American dream. We’ve also been inspired by A. Warendorff’s inventiveness and love for the business and have worked hard to keep his spirit alive in our ideas and concepts.
Our flower shop has been popular in the New York City market since 1935. We’ve developed a unique eye for design, which has enhanced our reputation in The Big Apple—thanks to our strong contacts with growers worldwide and our 127-acre flower farm.
Mrs. Fanny Warendorff
Mrs. Fanny Warendorff, affectionately known as “The Mother of Flowers,” is a florist industry trailblazer. Mrs. Warendorff was the matriarch who paved the way for a flourishing family legacy. With a reputation as the provider of six devoted sons to the floral world, her impact on the retail aspect of the industry is immeasurable.
Mrs. Warendorff’s journey began at 113 Fourteenth Street, East, adjacent to Steinway Hall. Over the years, she strategically moved her business, leaving an indelible mark at each location. From Fourteenth Street to Broadway near Twenty-eighth Street, where her son Alex Warendorff now oversees operations, she continued to expand her floral empire.
The Warendorff legacy extends across multiple locations, with her sons managing stores at prominent addresses. From the Empire Building at 71 Broadway to Madison Avenue near Fifty-ninth Street and the Liberty Building at Liberty and Nassau Streets, each establishment carries the essence of Mrs. Warendorff’s vision. Notably, the Ansonia Hotel hosts another flourishing branch.
Herman Warendorff, serving as the manager of the combined industries, ensures the seamless continuation of Mrs. Warendorff’s principles and legacy. The commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the florists’ trade has been passed down through generations.
Mrs. Warendorff’s grandson, a son of Joseph Fleischman, proudly heads the Fleischman store, a cornerstone at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Forty-second Street. This further exemplifies the enduring impact of her influence, transcending generations.
Mrs. Fanny Warendorff was a respected figure both within and outside the trade. Her legacy lives on through the thriving Warendorff floral empire, a testament to her dedication, hard work, and enduring passion for the art of flowers.
From Immigrant Dreams to Business Triumphs: The Remarkable Journey of My Dad
His journey is a testament to the transformative power of hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Acquiring the business was not merely a commercial venture but a vital step in securing his place in this new homeland. Through sheer grit and determination, he established roots and flourished, contributing to the rich tapestry of the American entrepreneurial landscape.
The walls of our business have witnessed the footsteps of legends. Celebrities such as Mohammed Ali, Halle Berry, and the unforgettable Aretha Franklin have graced our establishment. In a particularly memorable moment, Aretha Franklin sang Happy Birthday to my dad, creating an everlasting memory that echoes the essence of our business – a place where remarkable stories unfold.
My dad’s story is not just ours; it’s a testament to the indomitable spirit that defines the American experience.
About Me
I’m Sukh, the passionate and imaginative force steering the creative endeavors at Shields Flowers and Events. As the Studio Creative Director, my journey has been an odyssey of artistic expression and a commitment to spreading joy through the language of flowers across the vibrant canvas of New York City.
My venture into the world of floral artistry was not merely a career choice but a calling to create something uniquely mine.
The desire to make Shields Flowers and Events my own was driven by a deep-seated passion for crafting experiences that transcend the ordinary. Every event we touch becomes a canvas, and I, as the director, orchestrate a symphony of colors, scents, and textures to create an atmosphere that leaves an indelible mark on the senses.
But it all started with a simple yearning—the wish to continue making people smile through the enchanting beauty of flowers. I believe in the transformative power of blooms and how they can elevate moods, express emotions, and turn moments into cherished memories.
Allow me to share a snippet of the Shields Flowers and Events journey, perhaps a tale of the first sale – a moment that marked not just a transaction but the initiation of a dream. Selling those first blooms was not just about commerce; it was about creating connections, sharing beauty, and weaving the first threads of a story that continue to unfold with every blossom.
