Our story-100 years in flowers
— OUR STORY —
As Mellano & Company turns 100 years old, we are proud to reflect on the legacy built over the past century. From humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of the floral industry, each decade has shaped who we are today.
Here’s a look back at our journey.
1920s: The Foundation is Laid
In 1925, Giovanni Mellano, an Italian immigrant with a vision, established Mellano & Company in Los Angeles, California, laying the foundation for a floral empire rooted in tradition and community. Starting as a small-scale wholesaler, Giovanni’s passion for quality flowers and customer service set the tone for the generations to follow.
Early operations were based in the heart of The Original Los Angeles Flower Market, where relationships with local florists flourished. This decade was defined by dreams and determination, as Giovanni worked tirelessly to establish a foothold in a competitive market.
1930s: the American dream
Giovanni Mellano married the love of his life, Maria, and together they began their journey by purchasing a home in Artesia, California, complete with 6.5 acres of land. This period laid the foundation for Mellano & Company’s flourishing legacy.
With love, hard work, and a shared dream, Giovanni and Maria started cultivating their own crops for wholesale, from asparagus plumosus, a popular ornamental fern, to a variety of other items including daffodils, dahlias, amaryllis, and hyacinths.
Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, the Mellano family’s resilience and unwavering commitment to quality preserved the trust of their customers. Their dedication not only solidified their reputation in the floral industry but also ensured the business's survival during one of the most challenging economic periods in history.
1940s: Growth Amidst Wartime
In the 1940s as the business grew so did the family, with the birth of their three children: Johnny, Mike, and Rose Marie. brought both challenges and opportunities. As World War II shaped the nation, Mellano & Company adapted to new demands. The post-war era saw an increase in the demand for flowers as celebrations and weddings surged. Giovanni’s children (the second-generation Mellanos) grew up and began taking on larger roles, ensuring the business stayed true to its roots while embracing growth. This decade laid the groundwork for expansion, with a focus on meeting the needs of a recovering nation.
After Chris Brevidoro (an initial partner in the business) left the partnership to focus on a different venture, Giovanni Mellano brought in trusted friends Tom Trione and Bert Corgiat to join.
1950s: Expanding Horizons
The post-war boom of the 1950s marked a period of expansion. Mellano & Company began acquiring more farmland to meet growing demand. This decade also saw the company’s entry into broader markets, being the first wholesaler to run route trucks delivering greens and ferns to Death Valley. Setting the stage for its future as a leader in the industry. The acquisition of land allowed for diversification of crops, ensuring a steady supply of Mellano & Co.’s own high-quality flowers and foliage to an ever-growing customer base.
1960s: Innovation in Growing
In the 1960s, Mellano & Company underwent one of its most significant transformations, led by the second generation of the family. Battista Castellano, Rose Marie’s husband, and Mike Mellano Sr. relocated the growing operation to San Luis Rey, acquiring 80 acres to expand production. Meanwhile, Johnny Mellano remained in Los Angeles to oversee the wholesale division, ensuring continuity and growth in the company’s network. This era was marked by advancements in agricultural and management practices, as Mellano & Company embraced innovations in irrigation, cultivation, and company growth. These improvements not only enhanced the quality and variety of flowers and foliage produced but also increased their production capacity, further building Mellano & Company’s reputation as a trusted name in the floral industry.
1970s: A Family Legacy Grows
By the 1970s, Mellano & Company was led by the second generation of the family: Johnny Mellano, Mike Sr. Mellano, and Battista Castellano. During this time, Giovanni’s grandchildren began joining the business, bringing fresh perspectives while honoring the values instilled by their grandfather. This decade marked significant growth, with the expansion of operations to include new locations and a broader range of products. Family traditions were upheld, even as modern practices were integrated, creating a harmonious blend of heritage and progress that continued to shape Mellano & Company’s success.
1980s: A Commitment to Sustainability
As environmental awareness grew in the 1980s, Mellano & Company embraced sustainability as a cornerstone of its mission. The company implemented water conservation efforts and explored eco-friendly growing techniques, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable flower farming. These initiatives underscored their dedication to promoting eco-conscious practices within the floral industry.
1990s: Modernization and Milestones
The 1990s marked a period of modernization and growth for Mellano & Company. Investments in technology streamlined operations, boosting efficiency across the business. The decade saw the opening of a second wholesale location at the San Diego Floral Trade Center and the establishment of a wholesale location in Las Vegas, Nevada.
In 1994, Mellano & Co. partnered with the Ecke family to take over farming the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, further solidifying its presence in the floral industry. A highlight of the era was Mellano & Company’s feature on PBS’s California Gold with Huell Howser, which celebrated the company’s rich history and significant contributions to the industry.
2000s: Embracing Change
The turn of the century marked a time of adaptation and resilience. Mellano & Company navigated industry changes while remaining a trusted partner to wholesalers and florists nationwide. The company’s commitment to quality and ingenuity ensured its place as a leader in an evolving market. Challenges were met with creativity and determination, setting the stage for continued growth.
2010s: Building Community
The 2010s were a decade of community and collaboration for Mellano & Company. Strengthening relationships with wholesalers, florists, and event planners nationwide, the company established itself as a go-to source for premium flowers and foliage. Its engagement in community initiatives, industry organizations, and events further reinforced its role as a trusted partner, while also launching the mass-market division to expand its reach.
In 2014, Mellano & Company celebrated the official opening of its Santa Ana wholesale location.
This decade also saw a renewed focus on employee welfare and local engagement, emphasizing the company’s commitment to making a positive impact on the communities it serves. Mellano & Company’s dedication to its people and partnerships continued to nurture its success and strengthen its reputation.
2020s: Centennial year
In the 2020s, Mellano & Company has continued to evolve, embracing initiatives that highlight its commitment to sustainability and community. The company proudly champions the Certified American Grown Flowers movement, reinforcing its dedication to the highest standards of quality products. During this decade, Mellano & Co. achieved and maintained its BloomCheck certification, a reflection of its adherence to responsible farming practices that prioritize environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic viability.
Additionally, the family launched a local farm stand and U-pick, providing fresh produce and flowers to the community. While this centennial marks a time of reflection, it also serves as a springboard for the next century. Mellano & Company is committed to continuing its journey of growth, staying at the forefront of the floral industry, with a leadership team focused on fostering community connections and strengthening client relations and services as part of its forward-looking vision.
As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the generations of hard work, dedication, and passion that have brought us to where we are today. This centennial not only marks a moment of reflection but also serves as a springboard for the new era of excellence, as Mellano & Company continues to grow and thrive.
We invite you to join us in celebrating this incredible journey and look forward to sharing the next chapter of Mellano & Company with all of you. Here’s to 100 years of beauty, sustainability, and community—and to many more to come.