Business is blooming at Henry’s Florist

Henry’s Florist has been gracing Fifth Avenue with its plethora of plants and flowers since 1922.

Father and son team Peter and Telly Giannopoulos took over the business in 1975; it has been going strong ever since, with a little help from 15-year veteran employee Linda Scotto.

Henry’s Florist provides fresh floral arrangements, specializing in weddings, funerals and all occasions, as well as fruit and gourmet baskets and “everything plants,” including hanging and tropical plants and ceramic planters.

“You name it, we have it,” Giannopoulos said, adding that he donates and caters to corporate events regularly.

When Giannopoulos was asked what his secret to success was, Scotto answered for him.

“His charming personality and friendly rapport,” she said.

“I am always here with a smile. If you come here and I am not smiling, run!” Giannopoulos jested.

Growing up in Midwood and Bensonhurst, Giannopoulos has lived in Bay Ridge for the past 10 years. He is a member of the Fifth Avenue Business Improvement District and is also active with Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, St. Nicholas Church, Three Hierarchs Greek Orthodox Church and the Diplatanos Society.

He and his wife have three sons: Telly, who works at the florist, a police officer and a lawyer. He also has two grandchildren, Peter, who is three and a half, and Louie, who is 19 months.

“I am very happy with my job,” Giannopoulos said. “It’s the only job I know how to do. It’s very creative.”

Scotto agreed. “He is so creative,” she said. “He is an interior designer and decorates. He’s like my brother.

“They treat me like family and have been very good to me,” Scotto went on. “We have been together through thick and thin. He’s a good, honest man – what you see is what you get.”

Henry’s Florist is located at 8103 Fifth Avenue and can be reached at 718-238-3838. Visit them on the web at wwww.HenrysFlorist.com.