After more than five decades in the floral industry, celebrated industry mentor and educator Carol Caggiano, AAF, AIFD, PFCI, is retiring — but not without leaving a lasting impact.
Starting as a 17-year-old part-time employee in a Long Island flower shop, Carol and her husband built a successful career as a florist, shop owner, freelancer, and consultant. Along the way, she became a respected mentor, sharing her expertise with countless florists and shaping the industry through her work with the Society of American Florists and as a consultant for Teleflora. She is also the 2008 recipient of the Tommy Bright award and the 2013 recipient of Paul Ecke Jr. award.
In this conversation, Carol shares insights on what it takes to run a successful floral business, the importance of mentorship, and the deep satisfaction she’s found in helping others.
Amanda Jedlinsky is the senior director of content and communications for the Society of American Florists.
