Bellmore Petite Florist is one of the longest-serving businesses in the area, serving the floral needs of the Bellmores for more than 56 years.
Conveniently located at 2701 Pettit Ave., directly across from the Bellmore Long Island Rail Road Station, and chances are, if you've needed a bouquet or gift basket at some point, you have crossed their doorstep more than once.
Pettit Florist owner, Debbie, recently spoke with Patch about peddling flowers to the Bellmore community that her shop has called home for so many years.
Tell us a little bit about some of the items Bellmore Florist offers.
We offer fresh flowers as well as artificial silk flowers. We also offer fruit and goodie baskets, green plants, balloons and stuffed animals.
What would you say your most popular gift item is?
We have our daily bouquets that sell very well every day...they’re pre-made bouquets that are all ready to go when a customer comes walking in. We just wrap it up, and they’re outta here.
What got you into the floral business?
I just thought it would be someplace nice to work, and I’ve enjoyed it throughout the years.
Valentine's Day just passed, can you tell us about how hectic things get behind the scenes on the big floral holidays?
My husband and I typically work around 70 hours each during the week of Valentine’s Day. It’s tough.
And because our store is right next to the train station, we keep an eye on the train schedule. We’ll yell something like '20 minutes to the next train,' to the back of the store, and the panic to get things ready to go for the customers...it’s a rush. And all of a sudden, you’ll hear the doorbell ring constantly, and you’ll know that the train has just let out. Next thing you know, the store is filled with men just getting home from work who need flowers for their wives.
What do you like about operating a business in the Bellmore area?
We’ve been here so long, that we’ve gotten to know so many people...so many nice and caring customers, who are very friendly and dedicated, and we appreciate that.
