From Fashion to Flowers: Behind the Counter at Wilhide’s Unique Flowers and Gifts

Name: Kerry Schauer

Title: Sales Manager,

Years at job: 2

Age: 26

College major: Fashion merchandising with a minor in marketing

On college ambition: In college I wanted to be a buyer or an event coordinator—Now I get to do everything. We’re trying to do events at least once a month. Like right now I’m thinking of putting together something for gardeners in our greenhouse.

On falling into the job: I was looking for a summer job, and I had a background in retail as a sales assistant.

On learning the flower trade: I knew I liked flowers but I didn’t know much about them… It was really seeing something and asking, ‘Hey, What is this?’ There are still flowers that come in and I say, ‘Oh, what is that?’ I’m always learning. The best advice I have on learning the business is to ask questions.

Favorite flower: Stock. I like it because it’s really fragrant. It comes in a variety of colors. My second favorite is any orchid.

What’s the store’s top selling item?: Designer’s Choice arrangements. We have designers back here who have been designers for 20 years.

Surprising fact about store: That we have giftware or jewelry. When I came in I thought I was just interviewing for a flower shop. A lot of people say this is Howard County’s best kept secret. Like on weekdays we have 50 percent off loose flowers after 3 p.m. We also offer that deal all day Saturday.

What’s your favorite thing about working with flowers?: I just think they are naturally uplifting. If you are in a bad mood, you can’t stay in a bad mood. They just cheer you up. They’re fragrant…They’re a part of nature.  

Since you are surrounded by flowers, do you ever get sick of them?: No—they are just so different. You can do so many things with them. I always have fresh flowers on my desk.

What’s your dream job?: I would say this. I love it. I get to do it all.