Since it is Women’s History Month, Milwaukee’s top flower shop, Welke’s wanted to turn the spotlight on our history to acknowledge the profound contribution to the success of our business this particular woman has had. Afterward, we round up a list of famous female celebrities and reveal their favorite flowers.

When I think of a woman who has made a significant impact on Welkes, I can’t help but think about my Great Great Grandmother Emma Welke. Emma migrated to America from West Prussia in 1880. She met her husband, my Great Great Grandfather who immigrated from German and was a grower in Milwaukee. They met while he was making a delivery to the flower she was working at.

Emma was a hard worker. She faced many challenges. Her husband passed away and had a young child to support and raise. Her determination to succeed no matter what trials she faced in her own personal life while maintaining a very positive attitude were her traits. I am very proud to be carrying on her tradition and hope she smiles down and is proud.

Jennifer Lopez – White Lilies and Roses

Singer, composer, dancer, and actress, J-Lo seems to be able to do it all. Another celebrity who prefers white roses (see Lady Gaga and Madonna), this pristine flower symbolizes honesty, forever love, and perfection. The magnificent white lily is a large, beautiful, fragrant flower composed of six petals and a long pistil. A flower associated with the Virgin Mary’s purity in Christianity, the lily also represents royalty and strength.

Lady Bird Johnson – Lavender Bluebell

Lady Bird Johnson enjoyed flowers, especially wildflowers. While in the role of her at the White House as First Lady, she made it a place to make towns across America much more appealing by growing flowers along roadsides and including more park benches. The hard work of her and devotion inevitably led to the passing of the Highway Beautification Act in the mid-60s. Lady Bird Johnson’s preferred floral was the lavender bluebell, a wildflower with a gorgeous regal lavender color as well as blooms that create into the form of bells. The bluebell symbolizes gratitude, humility, and devotion – hallmark Lady Bird Johnson also had.

Michelle Obama – Hydrangeas and Pink Roses

Michelle Obama is an accomplished author, lawyer, and former First Lady. She made it a point to get healthy lunches into schools during her tenure in the White House. She also is a woman who constantly exudes grace and elegance, which is why it’s not surprising that one of her favorite flowers is the pink rose. Symbolizing refinement, sweetness, femininity, and grace, the pink rose is the perfect embodiment of this amazing woman.

Lilac & Lavender