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A 76-Year Legacy: Angelone’s Florist

Four generations of family, flowers and community connection in the heart of Raritan

Article by Kristi Sellers

Photography by Angelone's Florist, Michael Lago Creative Company

Originally published in Bridgewater City Lifestyle

In the heart of Raritan sits a business that has shaped life’s most meaningful moments for generations: Angelone's Florist. 

Angelone’s florist has been far more than a flower shop, it has served as a lasting expression of family, resilience and community connection. More than seven decades ago, James and Lena Angelone planted the first seeds of what would become a lasting legacy. Founded in the late 1940’s, the shop began as a small, family-run endeavor that has survived many challenges along the way. 

Today, that same philosophy remains, only now it’s carried forward by the next generation. The business remains family-owned, eventually passed down to their son, Lynn Angelone, and continues to reflect the values it was built on: passion or dedication, creativity and connection. 

According to Lynn, “I became involved in the business at a young age and, over time, grew alongside it, eventually taking ownership. What began as a family business quickly became a personal passion, and I found great satisfaction in serving and connecting with our local community.” 

Across four generations, the Angelone family hasn’t just maintained a business, they’ve evolved into a true presence in the community. From weddings to farewells, birthdays to “just because,” their work has become woven into the rhythm of everyday life. 

“We also participate in initiatives like “Petal It Forward,” a program founded by the Society of American Florists. Through this effort, we give each person two bouquets—one to keep and one to pass along to someone else. It’s a simple gesture that creates powerful emotional moments. We’ve seen firsthand how impactful it can be, especially for people receiving or giving flowers for the very first time. The response has been incredibly moving, and the program even received national news coverage.” says Lynn. Through programs like Petal it Forward and initiatives tied to International Women’s Day, the team extends its reach beyond the shop, sharing flowers as acts of kindness and recognition. 

Each day, Lynn works alongside his children - Jessica, John, and Matthew. All three play a pivotal role in Angelone’s, bringing their unique talents to the legacy. 

“Over the years, Angelone’s has evolved from a small neighborhood flower shop into one of the premier florists in Somerset County. While we started by simply offering flowers and plants, our services have expanded to include personalized designs, special events, charitable work, specialty plants and more.” says Lynn.

Their reach now extends far beyond their small-town beginnings, delivering across central New Jersey and even nationwide. But despite that growth, the experience remains deeply personal, rooted in the same hands-on care that defined its earliest days. 

According to Lynn, “The most rewarding part of running Angelone’s Florist has been the opportunity to serve our community with the freshest flowers, plants, and beautifully designed event florals. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in knowing we play a role in our customers’ most meaningful moments and celebrations in their life.” 

“Just as important is our ability to give back by supporting local charities and organizations. Being a trusted, dependable presence in the community, rooted in care, creativity and human connection, and contributing to it in meaningful ways, is something I’m truly proud of.” 

There’s something rare about a business that spans generations without losing its identity. At Angelone’s, that legacy is not only preserved, but thoughtfully nurtured each passing year. 

If you would like to place an order at Angelone’s Florist, you can call them at (908)725-5078, visit them in person at 101 2nd Ave, Raritan, NJ 08869 or through their website AngelonesFlowers.com