Linda Stone has distinguished herself as the owner and operator of City Flowers & Gifts in New Buffalo, Michigan, since 1999, where she has dedicated more than 25 years to cultivating a reputation for excellence in floral design and customer service. In this post, she oversees all aspects of the business, from managing daily operations to designing arrangements for a wide range of events. Her expertise as a florist is widely recognized, and she has achieved notable milestones such as designing florals for celebrities including Rod Stewart, Diana Ross and Jay Leno during their local engagements. Ms. Stone’s commitment to her craft and her clients has garnered her features in publications such as the New Buffalo Times.
Ms. Stone‘s approach to business is rooted in a philosophy of personal responsibility and genuine connection. She believes that every interaction shapes the reputation of her business, and she fosters a supportive environment among her team members. She is known for building strong relationships with clients, many of whom express reluctance when she attempts to step back from her work, underscoring the high value placed on her contributions. Her dedication to customer service and prioritization of client needs over advertising has been instrumental in the growth and sustained success of City Flowers & Gifts.
Prior to her career in floristry, Ms. Stone owned and operated Ramberg’s Bakery from 1980 to 1999. She assumed ownership just before her 22nd birthday, stepping into the role with minimal experience but a determination to succeed. With support from her family, particularly her brother and father, she navigated the challenges of running a bakery, learning essential skills such as cake decorating and business management through hands-on experience. Over time, she expanded the bakery’s offerings by acquiring a seasonal mail-order cookie business specializing in German confections.
In addition to her entrepreneurial pursuits, Ms. Stone is an accomplished children’s book author. Her published works include “Bubbles’ Troubles” in 2023, “Home Is The Very Best Place To Be” in 2024, “Teddy’s Spaghetti” in 2025 and several titles in the “Bubbles and Teddy” series. Her writing is inspired by vivid dreams and a desire to impart meaningful lessons to children on topics such as pet adoption, homelessness and compassion. Notably, “Teddy’s Spaghetti” was adapted into a screenplay with interest from Netflix for an animated feature, while “Bubbles’ Troubles” was nominated for Storyline Online—a program affiliated with the Screen Actors Guild that animates children’s books and features celebrity readings.
Ms. Stone is an active member of both the Michigan Floral Association and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, reflecting her commitment to professional development within her fields of expertise. She credits much of her success to spiritual guidance, believing that faith has played a pivotal role in guiding her career decisions, from seizing unexpected opportunities in floristry to pursuing writing after a transformative dream about her rescue dog.
Ms. Stone’s educational background includes completing coursework at the American Floral Art School in Chicago, Illinois, which laid the foundation for her achievements in floral design. She holds certification from the American Floral Art School, which has contributed significantly to her expertise and recognition within the industry.
Beyond her primary endeavors, Ms. Stone is civically engaged as an instructor at St. Joseph Lincoln Senior Service Center. She likewise supports organizations such as the American Red Cross, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and various local charities through sponsorships. Ms. Stone also sponsors initiatives to support animal shelters and food banks through proceeds from her books.
Throughout her career, Ms. Stone has been recognized for living her mission daily by spreading joy to everyone she encounters—a principle she considers her greatest achievement. She attributes much of her practical skillset to lessons learned from her grandmother and strives to pass on these values by encouraging creativity among children through potential workshops in cake decorating and writing. Hoping to be remembered for inspiring others to spread kindness wherever they go, Ms. Stone believes that compassion should guide interactions with others, recognizing that everyone has their own story and that people share more similarities than differences.