Long-time readers of the Gazette will remember the feature story we did on McNamara Florist in Volume 1 #17. That story, in 2004, marked the 50th anniversary of McNamara. We interviewed Bob McNamara, who with his brother Dick, founded McNamara at 1111 E. 61st Street back in 1954.

Toomie Farris, AAF, AIFD; a 31-year veteran of McNamara Florist, and current President, is quoted as saying "It is certainly a bittersweet announcement for us. There is a great deal of history and memories at the Broad Ripple location. We have helped many Indianapolis families celebrate a host of life's occasions, express all kinds of emotions, and softened a lot of grief from this location; it has been part of the fabric of the north side for decades. As difficult as it is to announce the end of this chapter in our history it is very exciting to move forward and commit to an exciting new store to service the customers in the area at Glendale Town Center, which has certainly been an Indianapolis landmark for decades as well, and recent revitalization has made it an ideal location for us."

McNamara Florist currently operates 8 retail locations, 7 in Central Indiana and 1 in Ft. Wayne; including a 58,000 sq. ft. Design Center in Fishers; and a 6-acre greenhouse/garden center/nursery in Ft. Wayne. McNamara Florist is recognized as a "Top 50" member (in the US and Canada) of both FTD and Teleflora; and is the largest privately held traditional full service retail florist operating in the state of Indiana. The company employs approximately 120 people throughout the state.

The current staff, including Store Manager Michelle Lammert, AIFD, will relocate to the new store, and hopes to continue the innumerable, (many - decades old) customer relationships as well as get to know new customers who will see McNamara Florist for the first time due to its enhanced visibility and ease of access. McNamara Florist anticipates an autumn store opening at the new location - just in time to decorate homes for both the fall and Christmas holiday seasons.