Floral Expressions and Gifts Is a Family Affair

The fragrance emanating from is just one of many reasons to enter the store.

When customers walk through the door at 67 S. Main St., their pace immediately slows as they take in the varied and interesting selection of gifts, smiling at many of the whimsical items. The mother-daughter team of Terri Platt and Megan Dell’Aringa enjoy and take pride in their work and shopping at their store is an experience that has won them legions of repeat customers. 

Platt opened Floral Expressions and Gifts in November 2001, while Dell’Aringa was away at college. Dell’Aringa worked over the summer and during holidays as she pursued her degree in biology and chemistry. After finishing school in 2006, Dell’Aringa realized she really loved working at Floral Expressions and she’s worked there full time since.

“I wasn’t really surprised. Creativity is in her blood and it’s hard not to use it,” said Platt of Dell’Aringa deciding to join her in running Floral Expressions. “I love having her here.”

Dell’Aringa said her father is very involved and her husband also assists over the weekends. “

This business wouldn’t work if it wasn’t family owned. We are blessed to have extra hands,” said Dell’Aringa.

The move two years ago from Mason Square to their current location in downtown Oswego meant serving a completely different type of shopper. Downtown, customers will get coffee from and just wander down Main Street, browsing in shops.

“We constantly meet new people and see new faces,” said Dell’Aringa.

Platt and Dell’Aringa search out trends and research client suggestions to keep their gift selection both current and unique.

“We are not just a florist, you can get just about anything in our store,” Dell’Aringa said.

Floral Expressions offers a large selection of varied gifts including a line of Stephanie Dawn bags and rum-infused caramel apples. The shop also offers custom invitations for all occasions.

Dell’Aringa said she believes she has found her “niche” working with brides and being “part of their big day.”

“Our dreams are already coming true” said Dell’Aringa of their growth in the wedding business.

She feels the business' focus on customer service has led to referrals.

“It is gratifying to see that happening,”Dell’Aringa said.

Dell’Aringa enjoys the chance to work with her mom and explained how customers find it “hilarious” when she and her mom complete each other’s sentences.

Platt worked in a floral shop in Yorkville and always wanted to open her own store.

“I put it off for many years since I had little kids,” said Platt.

Ten years ago she finally decided it was time.

“We started from scratch,” said Platt. “We did everything the way we wanted. It was fun but very challenging.”

Floral Expressions and Gifts is open Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. -5 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and closed Sundays.