Ep. 179 - Flowers, Family & Outstanding Varieties with Dave Mitchell of Mitchell's Florist

Send us Fan MailThis week on The Fresh Bunch Podcast, we’re joined by David Mitchell, President of Mitchell’s Florist & Flower Delivery — a family-owned shop that’s been blooming in Chicago’s southwest suburbs for more than 50 years. From humble beginnings in a converted farmhouse to becoming a floral staple in Orland Park and Hinsdale, Mitchell’s story is one of tradition, resilience, and reinvention.David opens up about what it’s really like running a multi-generational flower shop — the joy, the pressure, and yes, even the occasional funeral order with a mobster punchline. We dive into the realities of navigating tariffs in floral buying, the underrated power of standing orders, and why practicing gratitude is essential in the fast-paced world of events.You’ll also hear about David’s leadership within the Society of American Florists, his behind-the-scenes perspective on the Outstanding Varieties Competition, and — because no Chicago story is complete without it — a very important debate on Italian beef.This episode is packed with heart, humor, and honesty. You won’t want to miss it.https://www.instagram.com/mitchellsflowers/https://safnow.org/outstanding-varieties-competition/