Florists of BloomNation: Andes Florist

A Blossoming Legacy: Inside the Family Business of Andes Florist

It all started with a coincidence in 1995. Claudia, the owner of Andes Florist, wasn’t initially looking to open a flower shop. At the time, she and her husband were involved in the wholesale flower industry as importers and distributors of flowers. One day, a local florist decided to retire and offered them the opportunity to buy his business. Though the timing wasn’t ideal—they had a five-year-old daughter and a newborn—Claudia’s husband saw the potential. “Let’s buy it,” he said. Within a week, Andes Florist opened its doors to the public.

Although Claudia had experience in flower importing, she had never worked on floral design or taken a flower order before. “I didn’t know anything about flower arrangements,” she recalls. However, with her aunt and grandmother both having owned flower shops in Ecuador, the floral artistry might have been in her blood. Over time, Claudia began to see each floral arrangement as more than just a product—she realized it was an experience meant to make customers feel special.

Today, Andes Florist is a beloved part of the South Bay community in Los Angeles. “You can buy flowers anywhere, but what sets us apart is our customer service,” Claudia explains. Each arrangement is crafted with care, using the freshest blooms handpicked by Claudia and her team. They often include special touches like crystals or butterflies to make each piece unique. “We aim to create floral designs that leave a lasting impression,” she adds.

The shop has earned several accolades, including South Bay’s Small Business of the Year in 2019 and the People’s Choice Award from the City of Torrance. “Being recognized by our clients and community means everything to us,” Claudia says. “We’re honored to stand alongside larger companies like Honda and hospitals, and to be the only florist recognized—it’s really special.”

When the pandemic hit, Claudia’s daughter Johanna, who had been working in the music industry, shifted gears to focus on rebranding the flower shop. “The goal was to translate the experience of walking into our store—the smiles, the sense of familiarity, and the feeling of family—into a digital presence,” Johanna explains. This online transformation reflected the shop’s warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Johanna’s unique approach to the business is influenced by her family’s rich heritage. “Nearly all of us are bilingual, and everyone on our team is Hispanic,” she notes. With a father from Ecuador and a mother from Argentina, Johanna brings a blend of cultures into the shop’s aesthetic. “It’s not just about heritage—it’s the multicultural nature of our floral arrangements. We use roses from Ecuador, hydrangeas from Colombia, and many other blooms from around the world. The floral arrangements reflect who we are.”

Claudia’s deep roots—from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Los Angeles—are evident in her work. At the age of 22, she left her home country to start a new life in America. “I left my country, my language, my culture, and had no family here,” she reflects. “It was hard, but flowers have always been a part of my life.”

For both Claudia and Johanna, Andes Florist is more than just a business—it’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. “Sharing our culture with the community and telling our story through flowers is something we cherish,” Claudia says. “And being recognized as a Hispanic-owned business is a blessing.”

The bond between mother and daughter drives the shop’s success. Claudia is the risk-taker, always open to new ideas, while Johanna is the strategist, ensuring every decision is carefully thought out. Together, they create a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Whether it’s a delicate flower crown or a bold wedding installation, each piece they design is a labor of love, appreciated by their loyal customers.

Over the years, Andes Florist has grown from a hidden gem to a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Claudia’s advice to new florists? “Be patient. Trust in your craft and be honest with your customers. Everything else will follow.” Johanna adds, “Be creative in how you grow your business. Educate your customers, and don’t hesitate to use resources that help support your growth. Success is not just about creativity—it’s about understanding your numbers and being flexible.”

For Claudia, the floral industry is a source of endless joy. “I love this business,” she says. “I’d never return to an office job. This is my passion, my life. It’s an industry that allows you to create and share beauty every day.”

That beauty, carefully nurtured, is what Claudia and Johanna continue to share with their community—one bloom at a time.

Visit Andes Florist, proudly partnered with BloomNation since 2016, to experience their floral artistry. You can explore their stunning flower arrangements on their website at andesflorist.com, visit the shop at 22928 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505, or call them at (310) 375-3671.