Home | Our Story | Videos | Raves, Reviews & Media | Blog | Our Studio | Contact & Location | The Experience | Portfolio

Biography
 

Carl Schwartz was born on July 11, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Prior to becoming a florist, he established Cal Shaw and his Orchestra and at the same time he did stand up comedy and comedy writing. He was part of produced hit records and achieved much fame, including appearances at the Steel Pier in Atlantic City, Breakers Hotel, Garden Pier and the Ted Mack Show which is the forerunner for American Idol and America's Got Talent. As a comedian Carl was the opening act for many performers including Dionne Warwick, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Paul Anka, Louis Armstrong, Wayne Newton and Gerry and the Pacemakers.

Carl’s grandfather started selling flowers in 1918, when he opened up a kiosk in Woolworth's. Continuing the family tradition, Carl and his brother, Alan, opened their flower shop upon their grandfather’s death in 1967. It was a family business indeed, as both of their parents, Harry and Bunnie, assisted the boys in the business. The two brothers named the shop Shaw Florist & Decorators of Huntington Valley.

In 1980 the duo established an institution licensed and certified by the bureau of private schools of Pennsylvania, the Shaw School of Floral Design, which became an environment for Carl to spread his knowledge about the floral industry, and spark an interest in the field for others. At the school, Carl personally trained some of the most famous decorators in Philadelphia and the Tri-State area. Marketing, telemarketing, advertising, shop set-up, and the fundamentals of floral design are several of the areas in which Carl and Alan specialized.

In 1992, Carl and his brother sold their business, and Carl retired for six years, though his passion for flowers still lingered. He resumed his partnership with his brother in 2000 when they opened their popular Center City shop, Carl Alan Floral Design LTD.

For 42 years Carl has provided floral arrangements for any event imaginable. He’s known for working within a client’s budget. Carl feels, for example, that every bride deserves the same care no matter what the cost of the wedding, and he stresses, “I’ve always felt that I want my customers to have no less than what I want for my daughter.” With the help of his staff, Carl provides brides with sample flowers to make it easy for each bride to specify her ideal centerpieces, bridesmaid bouquets, and bridal bouquets. Carl’s professional eye and keen touch has led to international recognition of his creativity.  Carl has received numerous awards, including one presented by The Knot Magazine for best wedding florist in Philadelphia, The prestigious Mather and Company Award for floral excellence in designing and another from the NFA (National Florist Association) for best floral design company in Philadelphia. Carl and his design team have provided arrangements for events and galas honoring Sandra Day O’Connor, Joan Rivers, Steve Forbes, Bruce Willis, Angie Dickinson, Carl Bernstein, Salman Rushdie, Gregory Peck, President Bush, President Obama and Army Lt. Gen. David Petraeus. Floral arrangements include design for Samuel L. Jackson, Fergie and Kathleen Turner.

Carl has innovative ways of creating a memorable scene that clients embrace. Paying close attention to detail and applying his creative expertise are natural instincts to Carl, as it is a significant aspect of his profession that he has incorporated over the past four decades. He will continue to master the art of producing remarkable events.

A noted Philadelphia philanthropist and entrepreneur Carl now resides in Huntington Valley with his wife Susan. His daughter Allison, son-in-law Jason and grandchildren Joshua and Sophie live in New Jersey. He has traveled all over the US and Europe giving seminars on floral design, marketing, shop set up, advertising and factoring. He is still called upon today as a member of the elite design team in Philadelphia.

Carl Alan Florist Design LTD. is one of the largest floral design companies in the region. Carl and his staff welcome you to his 1700 Market Street location to explore the many ways he and his staff can help you with your floral needs.           

Reviews found on MyFoxPhilly.com

"We got our wedding flowers done by Carl Alan, and they did a great job of meeting our needs with creative, beautiful flowers."

"I intern with Perfect Weddings LLC, and can I just say that Carl is absolutely wonderful! We do work with them, and he's so helpful. Last week we had a bride asking for samples of wheat grass, that literally, I called EVERYWHERE in Philadelphia, Delaware, and South Jersey within 45 minutes and he was the GODSEND that finally came through! I don't care if I get married in Tahiti when I tie the knot, I wouldn't trust anyone else, they're miracle workers!"

"Flowers were absolutely amazing! Above and beyond our expectations. Our guests are still talking about the flowers and how beautiful they were throughout the wedding ceremony and reception. Carl knew my vision and gave me everything I was asking for and more."

"Carl has been so wonderful to work with while planning my wedding. The flowers, decorations, and everything are gorgeous. I highly recommend him and his staff. "

See all the reviews here

Need flowers but don't have time to drop by the store?
Call us at (800) 595-1742
we can arrange deliveries over the phone, local and worldwide!