One of the greatest joys of owning a family business is the relationships we’ve built over the years—not only with our customers, but with the incredible local businesses that make Lake Forest such a special place to live, work, and celebrate.
As a family-owned florist serving this community for over 45 years, we’ve had the privilege of helping mark life’s biggest milestones with flowers. Just down the street, another beloved local business has been creating memories of its own for more than three decades—Gerhard’s Elegant European Desserts.
Step inside Gerhard’s and you’ll immediately understand why so many families make it part of their weekly tradition. The aroma of fresh-baked pastries fills the air, customers are greeted with genuine smiles, and the display cases are filled with handcrafted European desserts made from scratch using fresh, natural ingredients. Whether it’s their famous Chocolate Mousse Cake, buttery Almond Croissants, Fresh Fruit Tarts, cookies, doughnuts, quiche, or seasonal specialties, every bite reflects a passion for quality and craftsmanship.
Owner Mary Greub has poured her heart into Gerhard’s, creating more than just a pastry shop—she has built a gathering place where friendships are formed and celebrations begin. Over the years, Mary has been part of countless birthdays, weddings, baby showers, bridal showers, anniversaries, retirements, and family traditions. Her kindness, generosity, and dedication have made a lasting impact on our community.
When I visited Mary, I brought her a vibrant summer bouquet filled with cheerful sunflowers, celosia, zinnias, and other seasonal blooms. As we admired the flowers together, she shared that her mother’s favorite flower was the sunflower. Seeing them brought back cherished memories and visibly touched her heart. Moments like that remind me why I love being a florist. Flowers have a remarkable way of connecting us to the people and moments that shape our lives. Just as the aroma of a favorite pastry can transport us back to childhood, a single bloom can tell a story that words never could.
As fellow small business owners, we understand the love, hard work, and commitment it takes to serve generations of customers. It’s about arriving before sunrise or clearing an event in the dark, celebrating milestones with our clients, remembering familiar faces, and taking pride in every detail. These are the qualities that define businesses like Gerhard’s and Lake Forest Flowers.
When you choose to shop locally, you’re doing so much more than purchasing flowers or pastries. You’re investing in neighbors who care deeply about this community. You’re supporting local jobs, preserving traditions, and helping keep downtown Lake Forest vibrant for future generations.
We’re grateful to call Mary a friend and fellow business owner. Watching our community continue to support businesses like Gerhard’s is a wonderful reminder that the strongest communities are built through personal connections, shared celebrations, and small businesses that genuinely care.
The next time you’re strolling through downtown Lake Forest, stop by Gerhard’s for a delicious pastry or dessert, then visit Lake Forest Flowers for a bouquet to brighten someone’s day—or your own. Together, flowers and desserts have a magical way of bringing people together and making life’s sweetest moments even more memorable.
Thank you, Mary, for your friendship, your passion, and for making Lake Forest just a little sweeter every single day. Here’s to celebrating local traditions, supporting one another, and making our community a place we’re proud to call home—one bouquet, one pastry, and one heartfelt connection at a time.