Local Mom Gets Fresh Start, Begins Flower Business

Like many mothers, Bonnie Shontz stopped working after her children were born. Years later, the Upper St. Clair mother of three said she is ready to get back into the business world.

"I wanted to go back to work," Shontz said, "But I needed something flexible."

Shontz has three young children, Elizabeth, 10; R.J., 7; and Carly, 4; so she wanted to do something from home.

"I love roses," Shontz said. "I always had a secret desire to be a florist."

After some research, Shontz discovered Speaking Roses, a Utah-based company that created the embossing of live flower petals. 

"When I found this opportunity, it just spoke to me," Shontz said. "And when I found out no one else was doing it in Pittsburgh, I just jumped on it."

Shontz bought a license from Speaking Roses and created her very own flower business called Remarkable Roses & More, LLC. She can write messages and emboss pictures on roses and tulips for just about any occasion you can think of, weddings, proms, bar mitzvahs and more.

Many mothers are nervous about going back to work after years away. Shontz said she felt ready.

"I feel like I'm old enough to take a risk," Shontz said. "I'm not going back to work for a paycheck, I wanted something fulfilling and fun."

You can find more information about Shontz's services on the Remarkable Roses & More website here. Shontz will also have a booth at the Pittsburgh Bridal Showcase at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on Sunday. If you go, make sure to stop by and say hi!