Stephen Zedros, Brattle Square Florist, Harvard Square, Massachusetts
The Brattle Square Florist is a 3rd generation flower shop around the corner from Harvard University. Originally founded in 1917 as Gomatos Brothers Fresh Produce by George, Stavros and John Gomatos, Brattle Square Florist was opened in 1973 in Harvard Square, where it still operates today. The history of the establishment is evident in the layers of papers, notes, receipts and memorabilia taped, tacked or stapled on the walls, doors and shelves.
Stephen Zedros, pictured here, is the grandson of one of the founders. His mother, Catherine “Catie” Zedros has worked in the shop most of her life. In 2012, Randy Ricker purchased Brattle Square Florist and is the current owner and operator. Catie and Stephen continue to work at the store.
With Harvard Square’s high end retailers, restaurants, bars, banks and other businesses, the Brattle Square Florist has the vibe of a Mom-and-Pop establishment. The store’s worn wooden fixtures, damp concrete floors and earthy scent makes Brattle Square Florist feel almost out of step with the busting urban environment surrounding the university.
During the cold Boston winters, Catie said Harvard students often come into the store just to breath in the warm aromatic air for a few contemplative moments before heading on to class.
During this overcast summer morning, people walking by the wide open doors of the shop are greeted by the fragrant scent of a variety of plants, ranging from succulents, irises, sunflowers, colorful mixed bouquets and a myriad of other greens, vines and plants.
A lifelong Boston resident, Stephen attended Boston University, which Catie happily pointed out had enables her and other family members to attend Stephen’s hockey games throughout his school years. At the moment, Stephen deftly strips the lower leaves from sprigs of white flowers and the stems of pink or white roses, and arranges them thoughtfully yet effortlessly into a fresh vase of water.
Flowers can be used to express celebration, condolences and countless emotions in between. This morning, an older female customer came in to confirm the bouquets for a funeral would be delivered on schedule. Randy assured her the flowers will be ready as ordered, to which the customer expressed her relief and appreciation.
Similar to many other professions, the outside world likely doesn’t recognize or appreciate the dedication and commitment that goes into running a flower shop. According the their website, Brattle Square Florist purchases thousands of flowers daily. Stephen notes that holidays and weekends are always busy times, month after month and year after year.
June 30, 2019
