FlowerTime blossoms in Ellenton
David and Marilyn Shelton love living north of the river where, as Marilyn says, "it's almost country." The couple owns FlowerTime, at 1222 36th Avenue East (Ellenton-Gillette Road next to Mansion Memorial Funeral Home), where David, a talented floral designer, can work his magic in an area with the small-town atmosphere he enjoys. David began his career in Orlando at the tender age of 8, when he stayed after school at a flower shop owned by neighbors. He'd pick up discarded flowers and try his hand at arrange-ments, went on deliveries, and gradually learned the business. He opened his own shop in Tennessee soon after high school graduation, and it flourished for 19 years. The Sheltons moved to Florida to be near Marilyn's family. "My parents grew up in Palmetto and they and all my aunts, uncles and cousins live in North Manatee County," says Marilyn, a marketing consultant. "We feel very connected to the area. I even have a horse, a lifelong dream of mine." Though FlowerTime designs flowers for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day and all occasions, David is especially empathetic toward funerals. He's compassionate and gives special attention to families who have lost loved ones. FlowerTime waives the delivery charge to hospitals and funeral homes in Manatee County. David also designs and decorates the sanctuary each Christmas for the First Church of the Nazarene in Bradenton, where the Sheltons are members. "People are always so happy to receive flowers," says Marilyn. "It's great to be in a business that always brightens someone's day." FlowerTime Full Service Florist 1222 36th Avenue East Ellenton, Florida Phone: 941.723.2007 flowers ¥ plants ¥ gift baskets
