Lafayette Florist relocated to 3335 Arapahoe Road in Erie, opening on January 18, 2024, after being in business since 1949. Kumiko and Yasutaro Yoshihara were released from a Japanese relocation camp after World War II and bought 2.5 acres of land on Public Road in Lafayette in 1949. They started by selling vegetables from a small stand while farming the land, then gradually expanded into selling flowers, bedding plants, and garden supplies. The passion of this family has been passed down for four generations. Brian Wheat, who married Lori Yoshihara (the Yoshiharas' granddaughter), has managed operations since the 1980s. Alongside Lori's sister Sandi Yoshihara-Sniff, they represent the third generation running the business. Their son Tanner Wheat serves as manager and represents the fourth generation. Brian Wheat explained the decision: I didn't want to be carrying Sheep and Peat (manure) when I was in my 70s and 80s. The family needed to secure retirement while preserving the business for future generations. Wheat emphasized: I really looked hard for other locations in Lafayette, that's what I want people to know. Despite relocating, the business retains Lafayette Florist as its name. The new Erie location sits less than a mile from Lafayette's city limits and approximately 2 miles from the original Public Road property. The new location operates without greenhouses or a full garden center, focusing instead on indoor gardening supplies and fresh flowers.

Lafayette Florist has SOLD just its property/greenhouses/building (not our flower shop or name) to a very well known and trusted family-owned business that will open a top quality garden center on the same location at 600 South Public Rd. They will announce their name and info soon) They will take excellent care of all your garden shopping needs this coming Spring and beyond!