To celebrate their 30th year of serving the community, Beneva Flowers plans entire year of giveaways
Sarasota, Florida, February 1, 2016: In April 1986, Arthur Conforti Sr. and his wife opened Beneva at 6980 Beneva Road – they had previously been florists for over 35 years in the Bronx, New York. Beneva is still located in its original location and has opened and operated on every single day of its 30-year existence.
Arthur Conforti Jr. soon decided to join his parents and help out with the family business after driving a SCAT bus for three years. He bought the business from his family in 1992 and grew it into a “Top 20 Retail Florist,” an honor awarded by Teleflora, the world’s largest floral association.
In 2015, Conforti sold his business to the Shuel’s – an energetic and young family from Chicago that Conforti said reminds him of himself, a family that will carry on the Beneva’ tradition of exceeding the expectations of its customers.
“They are quality people who will enjoy many years of success and good times,” Conforti said.
Conforti, reflecting upon 29 years of fond memories, said the florist business is like “no other business imaginable.”
“Being a florist is a very personal and gratifying business,” Conforti said. “Sarasota has been very good to me and my family. With a son who recently graduated from college and a daughter who grew up in the business, it was all the motivation in the world. Coming to work with your family is why it was never a job.”
Conforti will keep busy sharing his formula for success with fellow florists, and he will continue to be available – and visible – at Beneva.
“It’s time for the next generation,” Conforti said. “I loved every day, and I’m filled with memories that I’ll never forget.”
Beneva is celebrating its 30th anniversary as Sarasota’s favorite florist by giving away $1,000, in addition to 30 rose bouquets, throughout the year. Registration is easy, and there is no purchase necessary to win. For entry into the monthly rose bouquet drawing, contestants must register online at www.beneva.com/drawing.cfm.
