OUR STORY

For generations, floristry was not merely a profession for the family—it was a way of life. Rick Savington was raised within the floral industry, immersed from childhood in the rhythm and romance of a family business whose roots stretched back five generations. His earliest memories were formed helping his uncle after school and during holidays in what was then one of the largest floral enterprises in the country: a celebrated chain of retail florist shops and garden centers supported by an expansive wholesale division.

The family’s story began during the early years of the Chester Arthur administration as wholesalers whose calla lilies graced homes and events throughout the Eastern Seaboard. Such was the scale and distinction of the operation that the family patriarch earned the moniker “The Calla Lily King.” From those humble agricultural beginnings grew a flourishing floral dynasty built upon quality, artistry, and impeccable service.

Rick’s own journey through the business began modestly—sweeping floors, processing flowers, and making deliveries. Yet it was not long before his natural eye for composition and design became evident. Recognizing his talent, his uncle began training him formally in the art of floristry, igniting a lifelong passion for elegant floral design.

Following college, Rick returned to the family firm and was entrusted with managing the very store where he had once worked as a boy. The years passed quickly, marked by marriage, the birth of his son, and the many complexities life inevitably brings. Though his path eventually led away from the floral industry and into a successful legal career, the world of flowers—and the sense of beauty, purpose, and joy it had brought him—never truly left him.

After profound personal changes and years spent building a new life, Richard found himself reflecting upon the moments that had brought him the greatest fulfillment. Time and again, his thoughts returned to the floral industry he had loved since childhood. With characteristic resolve, he made the decision to return to his roots and revive the traditions that had shaped generations before him.

Thus, Savington & Hill Floral, Co., Ltd. was born—not merely as a flower shop, but as the continuation of a family legacy dedicated to beauty, gracious living, and exceptional service. While smaller in scale than the great family enterprise of decades past, the philosophy remains unchanged: every customer should feel valued, every arrangement should exceed expectations, and every interaction should possess a sense of elegance and care too often forgotten in modern commerce.

Today, that legacy continues into its sixth generation. After leaving Manhattan and returning home during the pandemic, Rick’s son joined the business, bringing with him a renewed sense of creativity and vision for the future. Together, father and son are reimagining the timeless traditions of a true florist for a new generation—one rooted in craftsmanship, refinement, and old-world charm.

Guests are warmly invited to visit Savington & Hill’s brick-and-mortar shop, or to follow along online through its blog and social media as the family continues its journey of recreating a little of the magic and graciousness of another era.