Flowers, Family, and a Small Business That Keeps Growing

Roots in South Bend

Karen’s journey began in the modest neighborhoods of South Bend, where her family of five navigated life on a tight budget. While Disney World remained a distant dream, their summers at Lake Michigan etched an indelible memory—not the water itself, but the faint floral scent that lingered in the air. That aroma would later define her life’s work.

From Family Garden to Floral Empire

At just 27 years old, Karen took the reins of Palace of Flowers, a shop with deep local roots. Founded in 1948 by Joe and later joined by his brother Hank, the business had passed through generations before Karen purchased it in 1990. With the help of her electrician brother, she expanded into a new location, transforming it into a West Side landmark with a reach far beyond the neighborhood.

Her mornings now begin with a smile and a fresh bouquet, a ritual shaped by her father’s love of roses. Over 50 bushes in his garden taught her patience, precision, and the quiet art of observation—lessons that would guide her through the challenges of running a business.

A Career Born from Passion

After graduating from Washington High in 1979, a counselor nudged her toward law enforcement. But Karen’s heart belonged to nature. In 1982, she enrolled in a floral-arrangement class and walked into Palace of Flowers seeking a job. The rest, as they say, is history.

The shop’s busiest day? Valentine’s Day. Karen starts planning for it right after Christmas, knowing last-minute shoppers often need guidance. She greets each customer with a simple question: “What does their heart desire?” Her knack for turning uncertainty into beauty has made her a trusted name in the community.

Gardens, Cats, and Unforgettable Moments

At home, Karen’s garden is a living mosaic. Sections like Mom’s Garden, Zen Garden, and Studebaker Garden reflect her love for storytelling through plants. Her cat, L. C., accompanies her daily strolls, adding a touch of whimsy to her routine.

Her work extends beyond bouquets. A woman from Florida once asked if flowers were necessary for a simple funeral. Karen’s reply—“It may be the last chance to honor her mother.”—led to a heartfelt choice. Then there was the time a funeral home requested a decorated Christmas tree for a psychic’s service, or the irate customer who, after a pricing dispute, mysteriously found her tire slashed the next day.

The Scent of Kindness

Roses remain her favorite, their scent unmatched by any perfume. She wonders: Does tending to beauty cultivate kindness, or do kind souls gravitate toward it? Either way, Karen’s life proves that the right path often blooms from the quietest roots.