### The Timeless Art of Handmade Fabric Flowers
You may not know their name, but the artistry of M&S Schmalberg is likely to resonate with you. This New York-based fabric flower manufacturer has quietly shaped the fashion world with their timeless, handmade creations. From the runways to the red carpets, and even making appearances in beloved TV series like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Bridgerton,” their floral designs are subtly omnipresent. As the family-owned business celebrates its 110th anniversary this winter, it continues to thrive as a unique pillar of American craftsmanship.
### The Legacy of Craftsmanship
At the heart of M&S Schmalberg’s story is fourth-generation co-owner Adam Brand, who spent his formative years immersed in the family factory. Under the tutelage of his father, Warren, affectionately known as “The Flower Man,” Adam honed the skills necessary to create these intricate fabric flowers. Located in the bustling Garment District of New York City, the factory stands as a testament to a craft largely forgotten in the age of mass production.
Warren’s sentiment captures the essence of the brand’s legacy: “First of all, what’s made in America these days? From your glasses to your shoes, what’s made in America? And here we are, not only made in America, but made in New York City,” he told CBS Mornings. His words resonate deeply in a world where authenticity and local craftsmanship are increasingly rare.
### A Unique Craft in a Changing Industry
When M&S Schmalberg was incorporated in 1916, the U.S. boasted over 400 feather and flower manufacturers. Adam emphasizes the uniqueness of their operation today: “We are the last flower manufacturer. So how unique are we? We’re the last of this art; the last of this craft.” As production moved overseas, many similar businesses shuttered their doors, but M&S Schmalberg has managed to withstand these industry shifts, producing more than 100,000 floral elements annually.
The flower-making process is an intricate blend of artistry and craftsmanship. Each design begins with a piece of fabric that is starched and stiffened. M&S Schmalberg uses vintage dies for die-cutting, resulting in flat petal shapes, which are then embossed with old irons to give them life and dimension. Finally, skilled artisans assemble each flower by hand, ensuring that every piece is unique.
### Glamour and Celebrity Connection
M&S Schmalberg’s flowers have graced the ensembles of numerous celebrities, elevating red carpet appearances and fashion statements alike. At the 2022 Met Gala, they created floral designs for 17 different celebrities, showcasing their versatile and chic appeal. Stars like Jenna Ortega, Olivia Rodrigo, Beyoncé, Anne Hathaway, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Rihanna have all adorned their garments with the brand’s exquisite floral embellishments.
Moreover, the company has formed collaborations with fashion icons, including the dynamic father-daughter duo Gilles Mendel and Chloé Mendel Corgan, further anchoring their reputation in elite fashion circles. However, the Brand family is not solely focused on fame; they find joy and significance in personal projects that carry emotional weight.
### Cherishing Memories Through Fabric
In a world awash with disposable fashion, M&S Schmalberg invites individuals to cherish heirlooms and special memories captured in fabric. Adam encourages creativity by suggesting clients repurpose old clothing into beautiful bouquets, preserving loved ones’ memories in a unique and lasting way. “Your kids grow up. You have their clothing that doesn’t fit anymore. Maybe you donate it. Maybe you leave it in a box and you just look at it and cry once a month. Make a bouquet out of it,” he suggests. This approach not only honors personal history but also continues the legacy of craftsmanship the family holds dear.
### A Commitment to Tradition
M&S Schmalberg is determined to keep the artisan craft of flower-making alive, and central to this commitment is the family dynamic that defines their culture. When asked about the legacy he hopes to convey, Warren replied, “That we’re here. That we love doing what we do, and it’s a family here.” This sentiment encapsulates not just the business’s dedication to floristry but also to nurturing a family legacy steeped in joy, artistry, and love.
As M&S Schmalberg heads into its next chapter, it stands as a symbol of unwavering tradition in a rapidly changing world, reminding us that true craftsmanship endures. Each petal tells a story, and each flower embodies decades of heritage—a legacy of beauty that continues to bloom.
