A New Day for Central Florist

By Mia Freneaux

    Before the new sign goes up over Central Florist, be sure to go in and welcome new owners Trey and Aimee Marino.  Just last week the purchase was finalized with former owners Melissa and Marty Guilbeau, and Trey and Aimee are excited to pick up where they have left off.   Trey, whose father and uncle began Marino’s Florist at Greenwell Springs Road and Joor Road in 1978, was basically raised in the business.  He worked with his father until he sold the business 5 years ago, learning every aspect of running a florist shop.  His first job was as a delivery driver for his father, along with many Central High School students.  He attended Redemptorist High School, where, as he says, “about 80% of the student population was from Central.”  He truly feels like he is coming home with the opening of his new shop.  “We want to grow on the solid foundation Melissa and Marty have created,” Trey shared, “We want to grow the business and get back involved in Central.  Come on in and let us reintroduce ourselves to you.”

    Aimee, a 6th grade teacher at Live Oak Middle School, has a background in art.  She was Live Oak’s Art teacher until last year, when they moved her into Computer Literacy.  “I still get to create, you can do so much with computer generated graphics and photo shopping now!” she stated.  She and Trey have a three year old daughter, Karrigan.  Together Aimee and Trey want to continue Central Florist’s tradition of customer satisfaction and excellent product.  “We aim for an elegant, current style,” said Aimee, “with the customer’s desires given top priority. We want to provide personalized designs for all our clientele.” 

    Trey and Aimee plan to keep the gift side of the shop and expand it, along with the silk flower arrangements.  They will continue to handle every aspect of the florist business, from wedding flowers to funeral arrangements and everything in between.  Dee McKnight and Gloria Smith will be staying on as delivery drivers, servicing Central, Zachary, Walker, Denham Springs, and Prairieville.  Cherese Arnold will still serve as shop assistant.  As for Melissa?  “I plan to spend time with my family!” she says with a smile.  Melissa expressed with heartfelt sincerity her gratitude to Central, “Thank you for the wonderful support you’ve given me from Day One.”  She has every confidence in Trey and Aimee’s ability to look after her clientele.  “I’m very pleased with this arrangement.  I know my customers are being left in good hands.” 

    Trey Marino’s Central Florist and Gifts is open from 8:30-5:00 M-F, and 9:00-2:00 Sat. 13561 Hooper Road, 261-6482.