Karen Halverson, the esteemed manager of Lougheed’s Flowers, is commemorating her 50th Mother’s Day as Sudbury’s reigning floral queen. For half a century, she’s been orchestrating bouquets that speak volumes when words falter.
“In mere moments, flowers can articulate emotions that elude many through speech,” Halverson shared with Sudbury.com. “I’ve witnessed this phenomenon time and time again.”
Whether it’s the elation of a newborn, the triumph of graduation, or the tender expression of love, or conversely, the anguish of loss, Halverson asserts that flowers unfailingly convey the right sentiment.
Halverson’s journey began during her days as a student at Marymount College when she embarked on a part-time stint at Lougheed’s Flowers. Unsure of her future career path like most high schoolers, the job ignited a lifelong passion for floristry. She seized the opportunity to enroll in the Humber College Retail Floriculture Program, completing the two-year curriculum in just one year while concurrently working weekends at Lougheed’s.
Over the years, Halverson has witnessed myriad changes in floral trends, from traditional arrangements to the prevalent “cottage garden” style. However, she cites the evolving preferences of modern clientele as the most significant shift.
“The floral landscape today is vastly different from what it was decades ago,” Halverson observes. “Even the flowers themselves have evolved. Take Gerber daisies, for instance; they’ve become ubiquitous, unlike when I first started.”
Preparation for peak seasons like Mother’s Day begins months in advance for Halverson and her team. From procuring containers and ribbons to ensuring a fresh supply of blooms, meticulous planning is essential to meet the demand while maintaining quality.
Halverson also upholds a tradition passed down by Marguerite Lougheed, co-founder of the flower shop, of documenting each day’s operations. This practice allows her to glean insights and refine strategies year after year.
Despite the challenges, Halverson finds solace in the creative process of floral design, relishing the opportunity to craft arrangements that encapsulate profound sentiments, particularly in somber moments like funerals.
When it comes to her personal floral preferences, Halverson gravitates towards roses and tulips, citing their timeless appeal.
“Roses, in particular, are simply exquisite,” she muses.
For Halverson, flowers embody a myriad of emotions, serving as conduits for joy, celebration, love, and sorrow alike. And as she reflects on her five decades in the industry, she remains grateful for the privilege of being part of these meaningful exchanges.