Established: 1949Business Type: FloristKnown For: Flowers that last, designs that feel personal, and service that goes the extra mile.
Prestons Florist has been a cornerstone of Evanston’s small business community since 1949, when founder Jim Preston opened the business with the belief that fresh flowers make life better. Originally located on the 1900 block of Central Street, the florist quickly earned a reputation for quality blooms, personal service, and neighborhood warmth. Over 30 years ago, Prestons moved to its current home at 1726 Central Street, just east of the Metra tracks and west of Ryan Field. Today, Prestons Florist is led by Julie Heinz-Schoenfelder, who has been part of Preston’s for more than four decades and continues to uphold its tradition of craftsmanship and care.
Since 1980 we have been able to deliver to Chicago and over 150 suburbs, allowing our customers to send personalized arrangements from our Evanston location. In 2024, Prestons celebrated its 75th Anniversary, marking three quarters of a century of serving Evanston families through life’s most meaningful moments.
For generations, Prestons has been woven into the life stories of Evanston residents. We’ve welcomed new babies, crafted arrangements for anniversaries, celebrations, and times of loss. As Julie often says, “We were there when they were born, and now we’re there for their wedding.”
Our longevity is rooted in loyalty and trust. Customers return year after year, often sharing that a bouquet they received inspired them to send one of their own. That word of mouth connection has sustained us through industry changes, economic shifts, and even the pandemic.
