By Deb Kroon
Review Staff Writer
Howie Luitjens of Howie’s Floral, 309 Maine Ave. in Adrian has been busy these past couple of months sharpening his designing skills and furthering his education to get his AFD (like a master’s degree) in Floral Design. As of now he has a CFD (Certified Floral Designer), but wants the best. He will have the opportunity to test for the AFD in July of 2020.
Meanwhile Howie has been a very busy man. In August, he attended a floral retreat in Chamberlin, SD. This is an event that allows the designers attending to showcase their talents, and the fun and whimsical side of their businesses. “I designed a three foot dragonfly for this event,” Howie explained. “It’s not something that a bride would carry down the aisle. My model also wore wings while displaying my design during the runway show. It’s a fun way to show your creative side.” Later in August, Howie’s Floral made a trip to the Minnesota State Fair. Howie won the People’s Choice Award for the best use of roses.
On October 26, Howie will be decorating two tables for the Hospice Tour of Tables in Luverne. This is Howie’s first time sponsoring tables for this event. The host picks a theme and decorates the table, from tablescloth to dishes to go along with the theme. Howie is doing one table titled “Winter Wonderland” and the other table is “Hometown Christmas.” “I have all of the dishes together, except for some cups for one of them. I am waiting on an order with winter items for the tables. I have tickets available for the brunch if anyone is interested in going. They are $20 each and I have them at my shop,” Howie said.
On October 30 and 31, Howie is going to Indianapolis as a judge for the FFA Convention and Expo. “Kids will compete in seven categories in the horticulture division, which I will be judging. There are scholarship dollars that can be won by individuals and trophies for teams. We are excited to be attending.”
The floral shop is getting some attention as well. Howie is expanding the present display area into the house, as he expands the lines of product he carries for retail. “I have new statuary for funerals coming in, along with Christmas items and a limited amount of select jewelry items. As always, I have a great selection of flowers for any need.”
Hours at the floral shop on Maine Street are 9:00 a.m to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9:00 a.m. to noon on Sunday. You can always reach Howie by phone if you miss him. His phone number is 507-399-9322. It is posted on the outside of the porch in front of the shop. Be sure to contact Howie anytime for all of your floral and gift needs.
A reminder-if you need tickets for the Hospice Tour of Tables, contact Howie before they sell out. The proceeds benefit the Hospice Cottage right in Luverne.
