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The two-story James Cress Florist, on Main St. in Smithtown, has been a presence in the downtown community for many years. It is presently owned by George Karatzas . There is also a second location on Nesconset Highway, in Port Jefferson Station.
George explained, that while the “James Cress” name has been around for 130 years, it was only this past December that he decided to purchase the two James Cress locations. George is ably assisted by his wife, Linda, and his 37 employees. George is proud to “continue the James Cress legacy.”
While George himself has 40 years’ experience in the florist business, beginning with selling flowers on the sidewalk at the age of 14, it is Linda “who has brought the gift of creative design to the business, which is a large part of our success,” says George.
George and Linda discussed that a large portion of their business is occasion based, especially weddings. To that end, their business has a separate department specializing in weddings. It was just prior to our interview that George and Linda were meeting with customers about a wedding design.
When asked how the business has changed over the years, George said the internet is a big part of the business, and many younger customers order arrangements on line with deliveries by Grubhub or Doordash.
As far as the Covid-19 pandemic goes, George was quick to point out the hardships they encountered with supply chain disruptions. Many hardware parts and specialty items, which they require to support their floral designs and displays, were delayed and disrupted. This continues to be an ongoing problem with no clear resolution in sight, although they adapt as best they can.
George and Linda agreed that the Florist business is very demanding. Not only are the stores open seven days a week, but they must split time between the two locations. “This kind of business really requires attention to the customer,” says George. And “we teach our employees to treat every customer the way they would want to be treated.” Linda also pointed out how hard arranging flowers can be on your hands.
James Cress Florist can handle walk-in customers, but they especially take pride in creating designs for weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, parties, and special events in any imaginable theme. It is “the unusual, rather than the usual, which drives our dedication to our arrangements and designs,” says George enthusiastically.
In the main lobby at James Cress, one is taken in with the sensation of a wide variety of fresh, green and blooming plants, Grab-N-Go loose roses, and premium floral arrangements.
James Cress Florist has a website, https://www.jamescressflorist.com/, which is conveniently laid out to browse by occasion or holiday. There are numerous color photos of sample arrangements. Details on store hours, policies and testimonials can also be found here.
